Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

Imagine the most pillowy, melt-in-your-mouth cookie you’ve ever tasted, with just a hint of tang and an irresistible buttery aroma—that’s exactly what awaits with these Cream Cheese Cookies. Whether you’re baking up a batch for the holidays or just because your afternoon needs a little extra softness and sweetness, this recipe guarantees a treat that’s both delightfully simple and impressively delicious. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cream Cheese Cookies starts with a handful of pantry staples teamed up in perfect harmony. Each ingredient has a role: some bring structure, some add flavor, and some infuse these cookies with that signature creamy richness. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each one matters.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives the cookies their buttery backbone and soft texture; using unsalted lets you control the saltiness perfectly.
• Cream cheese (1 cup, softened): The secret to dreamy tenderness and a subtle tang that sets these cookies apart.
• Granulated sugar (1½ cups): Sweetens the dough while helping to create the cookie’s golden edges.
• Large egg (1): Makes the dough rich and provides cohesion for spreading and rising as they bake.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and rounds out the creamy flavors.
• All-purpose flour (2½ cups): Gives structure but keeps the cookies light and just chewy enough.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Lifts the dough slightly for that soft, cloud-like bite.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Teams up with the baking powder for perfectly puffed cookies.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to brighten all the other flavors and cut through the sweetness.

How to Make Cream Cheese Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), letting it preheat while you ready a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This simple step sets the stage for cookies that won’t stick, ensuring easy cleanup and perfectly baked bottoms—no burnt bits in sight!

Step 2: Cream Together the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture looks fluffy and completely combined. This is what will make your Cream Cheese Cookies irresistibly tender, so don’t skimp on the creaming time here!

Step 3: Add the Sugar and Mix Well

Gradually sprinkle in the granulated sugar and continue beating. You’re aiming for a light, airy texture at this point—the sugar not only makes them sweet but helps to puff the dough as it bakes.

Step 4: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until you no longer see streaks, ensuring the wet ingredients are silky smooth and uniform for even cookies every time.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Taking a minute to blend these before adding avoids uneven leavening, so your cookies bake up perfectly every batch.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to your creamy mixture, a bit at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Over-mixing can make cookies tough, so stop once there’s no visible flour for the softest results.

Step 7: Scoop, Space, and Bake

Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop dough onto your prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread. Bake for 10-12 minutes, just until the edges are lightly golden—the middles should look soft and pale for that perfect Cream Cheese Cookie texture.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let your cookies rest on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes to finish setting, then move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience is rewarded with the ultimate soft, dreamy cookie crumb!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Cookies

Garnishes

A little extra flourish can take these cookies from delicious to show-stopping. Try a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or even a colorful sprinkle or two for a festive touch—they’ll look as inviting as they taste!

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with all sorts of treats. Serve Cream Cheese Cookies alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack, or put them on a dessert platter next to fresh berries and fruit compote for an elegant after-dinner option.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack a handful inside a glass jar with ribbon for the perfect edible gift, or sandwich a big scoop of ice cream between two cookies for an unforgettable twist on the classic ice cream sandwich. No matter how you serve them, their pillowy centers and golden edges are sure to turn heads!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow manage to have leftovers, keep your Cream Cheese Cookies soft and tasty by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Slide a slice of bread into the container to help keep them extra moist—just like fresh from the oven!

Freezing

Want to bake ahead or save some for later cravings? These cookies freeze beautifully. Simply pop cooled cookies into a zip-top freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and store for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature for a sweet treat anytime.

Reheating

To revive their just-baked warmth, place Cream Cheese Cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 8-10 seconds. This quick zap brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and makes the flavors pop all over again—like magic!

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese in these cookies?

You can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that you might lose a touch of richness and the cookies could be slightly less tender. Full-fat cream cheese always delivers the creamiest texture for these cookies.

Do Cream Cheese Cookies spread a lot during baking?

They spread just a bit, which is why leaving two inches between each scoop on the baking sheet is recommended. If you prefer thicker cookies, a short chill in the fridge before baking can help them keep their puffy shape.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Fold in up to a cup of mini chocolate chips, finely chopped nuts, or even dried fruits after mixing in the dry ingredients. This adds texture and makes each bite a delightful surprise.

Can I freeze the unbaked cookie dough?

Yes, scoop the dough onto a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag for storage. Bake directly from frozen, just adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for super fresh Cream Cheese Cookies whenever you crave them.

Why are my cookies turning out flat?

Flat cookies are often the result of over-creaming the butter or using overly soft butter and cream cheese. Make sure both are just softened, not melted, and measure your flour precisely for thick, tender cookies every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a batch of Cream Cheese Cookies with family and friends. Every crumb is a reminder that the simplest ingredients, handled with care, can bring out the biggest smiles. Give this recipe a go—you might just find a new favorite for every sweet-tooth occasion!