If you’re searching for a delightful twist on a classic treat, this Cream Cheese Cut Sugar Cookies Recipe is everything you need. These cookies bring a soft, tender crumb with just the right hint of tanginess from cream cheese, elevating your traditional sugar cookies to a whole new level. They are easy to make, hold their shape beautifully, and create the perfect canvas for colorful decorations or simply enjoyed on their own. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday indulgence, these sugar cookies promise to bring smiles and warmth to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple, with ingredients that are pantry staples but come together to create magic. Each component plays a vital role: butter and cream cheese give richness and softness, sugar sweetens, eggs provide structure, and flour makes the base perfectly tender. Vanilla adds that aromatic touch, while baking powder helps achieve a gentle lift.
- 1 cup butter, softened: Gives the cookies rich flavor and tender texture.
- 1 package cream cheese, softened: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps cookies soft.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps cookies brown nicely.
- 2 eggs: Binds ingredients and adds moisture for soft, chewy cookies.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for structure and shape.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warm, comforting flavor.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Lightens the dough for a delicate texture.
How to Make Cream Cheese Cut Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
First thing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot when your cookies are ready to go in. Make sure both the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature—this will help you achieve that smooth, creamy dough that’s easy to work with.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until you get a fluffy, smooth mixture. This step is key because it melds these rich ingredients into a light base, ensuring your cookies will be tender and melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the fluffy mixture. Beat everything together until fully incorporated. This step gives the dough structure while infusing that warm vanilla aroma throughout.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, or you might lose that soft, tender crumb we’re aiming for.
Step 5: Roll Out and Cut the Dough
Flour your work surface lightly and roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. This thickness makes for perfectly soft cookies that still hold their shape when baked. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes, whatever suits your mood or occasion.
Step 6: Arrange and Bake
Place the cut cookies on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each. Bake in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the edges should turn a lovely golden brown, signaling they’re just right.
Step 7: Cool and Get Ready to Enjoy
When baking is complete, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial to help them set perfectly, whether you plan on decorating or just enjoying as they are.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Cut Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Cream Cheese Cut Sugar Cookies Recipe is how versatile it is for garnishing. From a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze to vibrant royal icing or colorful sprinkles, your cookies become both a treat for the taste buds and a feast for the eyes.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages, such as a mug of rich hot chocolate, freshly brewed coffee, or an aromatic cup of tea. They also complement fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream beautifully, transforming your simple cookie break into a celebratory moment.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these at a party or gifting them, consider stacking and wrapping them with a satin ribbon. Another fun idea is to create cookie gift boxes layered with parchment paper or placing them on a decorated platter with edible flowers or fresh herbs for a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They usually stay perfect for up to a week. Adding a slice of bread inside the container can help maintain moisture, keeping them pleasantly tender.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these cookies, either before or after baking. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze, or freeze baked cookies in airtight containers with parchment between layers. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature—easy and convenient for busy days!
Reheating
If your cookies need a little warm-up before serving, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or gently warm them in a low oven for a few minutes. This helps revive their softness, giving you that freshly-baked feel every time.
FAQs
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
While cream cheese adds a unique tang and moistness, you can try using mascarpone or even softened ricotta for a similar effect. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the classic Cream Cheese Cut Sugar Cookies Recipe.
How thick should I roll out the cookie dough?
Rolling the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness gives the best balance between soft, tender cookies and ones that hold their beautiful cut-out shapes without spreading too much.
Can I add flavors or spices to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even lemon zest to the dough can add lovely depth. Just be mindful of not overpowering the delicate tang of the cream cheese.
Why do cream cheese sugar cookies stay soft longer?
The cream cheese provides extra moisture and fat, which helps the cookies stay tender and less prone to drying out compared to traditional sugar cookies.
Is it better to chill the dough before cutting?
Chilling the dough can make it easier to roll and cut, especially if your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too soft. However, with this recipe’s texture, it’s often fine to roll straight away as long as you work gently and flour your surface well.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cream Cheese Cut Sugar Cookies Recipe enough—it’s a fantastic way to bring a little extra love and softness to your cookie game. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because, these cookies offer that cozy homemade charm along with a perfectly tender texture. Go ahead, grab your ingredients, and start baking—these cookies are waiting to become your new favorite.
Print
Cream Cheese Cut Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully soft and flavorful cream cheese cut sugar cookies with a tender texture and a subtle tang, perfect for decorating or enjoying plain. These cookies combine cream cheese and butter for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s ideal for holidays, celebrations, or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Mix Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and smooth, which ensures a light texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the creamy mixture and blend until fully combined, enhancing flavor and binding the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir the dough until it’s well combined and forms a soft consistency.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough out to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. This thickness helps the cookies bake uniformly and maintain a tender bite.
- Cut Cookie Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes, making the cookies visually appealing and ready for decorating if desired.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cut cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a nonstick surface, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow room for slight spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges just turn golden brown, indicating they are perfectly baked but still soft inside.
- Cool Before Decorating: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, which prevents icing from melting and helps retain their shape.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing for a smooth dough.
- Do not overbake to keep cookies soft and tender.
- Dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours for easier handling and enhanced flavor.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Perfect for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or edible markers once cooled.
