Cream Cheese Cookies

Soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious these classic Cream Cheese Cookies are the perfect simple treat for any occasion. With their tender texture and subtle vanilla flavor, they pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, holiday platters, and cookie gift boxes. Whether enjoyed plain, rolled in sugar, or dressed up with sprinkles or chocolate, these cookies are always a crowd favorite!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1/2 lb (2 sticks / 226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional: extra granulated sugar for rolling or sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream the butter and cream cheese
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth, creamy, and lump-free.

3. Add sugar and vanilla
Mix in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Beat for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.

4. Add the dry ingredients
Add the flour and salt, then mix on low speed until the dough comes together.
Dough will be soft but not sticky.

5. Chill the dough (recommended)
Refrigerate the dough for 20–30 minutes.
This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

6. Form the cookies
Roll or scoop dough into 1-inch balls.
Optional: Roll in granulated sugar for sparkle and a bit of crunch.

7. Bake
Place cookies about 2 inches apart on your baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the bottoms are set and the edges are barely turning golden.
Do not overbake these cookies should remain pale and soft.

8. Cool
Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then move to a wire rack.

Variations

1. Lemon Cream Cookies
   Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough for a fresh citrus twist.
2. Almond Bakery Cookies
   Swap the vanilla for almond extract for a richer, more nostalgic flavor.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Cream Cheese Cookies
   Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let set stunning for parties!
4. Sprinkle Cookies
   Roll the dough balls in colorful sprinkles before baking for a festive holiday or birthday version.

Cooking Notes

• Softened butter and cream cheese mix more smoothly; avoid melting them.
• Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
• Cookies will remain pale even when done avoid waiting for browning.
• For perfectly round cookies, gently press the tops before baking or smooth edges right after baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Cookie Platters: These soft cookies complement richer treats like fudge or chocolate bark.
• Tea Party Treat: Their delicate texture pairs beautifully with tea, cappuccinos, or hot cocoa.
• Holiday Gifting: Package them in clear bags or tins they hold up well and look elegant rolled in sugar.
• Dessert Bases: Use them as sandwich cookies with frosting or jam between two cookies.

Tips

• For extra tender cookies, don’t overmix once the flour is added.
• Want thicker cookies? Chill longer up to 1 hour.
• For a crunchier exterior, roll generously in granulated sugar.
• Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies and consistent baking.

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• + Time: 20–30 minutes chilling
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 45–55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: ~110
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 45mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?
   No store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
2. Can the dough be made ahead?
   Yes! Chill for up to 48 hours or freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months.
3. Why did my cookies spread too much?
   The dough may have been too warm chill longer next time.
4. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
   Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Cookies are the ultimate soft, buttery, no-fuss treat that always brings joy to holiday trays, gatherings, and cozy afternoons at home. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and endless flavor variations, they’re a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Enjoy every tender bite!

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