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If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that feels like a warm hug from your oven, then this Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe is just what you need. These cookies are tender, delicate, and melt-in-your-mouth soft thanks to the magic of cream cheese mixed with sugar and butter. Each bite combines a subtle tang with sweet vanilla and almond undertones, creating a perfect companion for afternoon tea, festive gatherings, or just a quiet moment to treat yourself. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite to bake and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor, texture, and the perfect soft crumb that makes these cookies stand out. Let’s run through what you’ll need:
- White sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness and helps create a light texture.
- Butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Cream cheese, softened: The secret star that gives these cookies their irresistible moistness and a slight tang.
- Large egg yolk: Binds the dough and adds silkiness without the heaviness of a whole egg.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor depth.
- Almond extract: Adds a lovely fragrant note that pairs beautifully with vanilla.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and classic sweetness to the flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to these tender cookies.
How to Make Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming together the white sugar, softened butter, and cream cheese in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is important because it ensures a light, tender base for your cookies while incorporating that delicious tang from the cream cheese evenly throughout.
Step 2: Add the Egg Yolk and Flavorings
Next, mix in the egg yolk, salt, almond extract, and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg yolk enriches the dough, while the salt and extracts elevate the cookies’ flavor, creating a beautifully balanced taste that’s anything but ordinary.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until the dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough here—just combine until it holds together to keep your cookies tender and soft.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Divide your dough into three equal portions, shape each into a disk, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to let the dough firm up. This chilling step not only makes rolling easier but develops the flavors and results in perfectly textured cookies.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out each disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using your favorite cookie cutters, cut out shapes and arrange them on ungreased baking sheets. This is where you can get creative—classic circles or playful shapes, it’s up to you!
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 7 to 10 minutes, or just until the edges turn a gentle golden color. Keep an eye on them—they bake quickly! Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. That cooling step helps them set perfectly without crumbling.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are delightful on their own, but if you want to dress them up, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a delicate drizzle of melted white chocolate. You can also gently press some colored sugar crystals on top before baking for a sprinkle of sparkle and extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies with a hot cup of tea or rich coffee to complement their smooth texture and subtle flavors. They also work wonderfully alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for an indulgent afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or parties, stack these cookies with parchment paper in between and tie with a festive ribbon. You can also sandwich two cookies with a thin spread of jam or cream cheese frosting for a fun twist that doubles the deliciousness. Personalize them with colorful icing to match any occasion—holiday, birthday, or just because.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keeping them sealed preserves their soft texture and prevents drying out, so you’ll enjoy every bite just as fresh as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies once they’re completely cooled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature and they’ll be just as delightful as freshly baked.
Reheating
If you want to refresh your cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. This revives their softness and brings back that fresh-from-the-oven feeling without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolk?
While whole eggs can be used in many cookie recipes, this Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe specifically calls for an egg yolk to create a silkier, more tender texture. Using the entire egg might change the delicate balance and firmness of the dough.
Is cream cheese necessary, or can I substitute it?
Cream cheese is key to this recipe’s unique flavor and moist texture, so it’s highly recommended to use it. Substituting it may result in a less tender cookie and will alter the classic taste you’re aiming for.
Can I add icing or frosting to these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies provide a perfect base for decorating. A simple glaze or cream cheese frosting enhances their flavor and makes them extra festive, especially for special occasions.
What is the best way to roll out the dough to avoid sticking?
Lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin, and roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper if you want extra ease. This prevents sticking and makes transferring to the baking sheet much smoother.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly but many have had great success with this swap.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe is truly one to keep in your baking repertoire. Its tender, buttery, and slightly tangy profile offers a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie that everyone will love. Whether for everyday snacking or special celebrations, these cookies bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any occasion. So go ahead—give this recipe a whirl, and soon you’ll be sharing these soft, flavorful treats with friends and family again and again.
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Print
Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (approximately 24 cookies depending on size)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully soft and buttery cream cheese sugar cookies with a hint of almond and vanilla, perfect for any occasion. These cookies are easy to prepare and promise a tender texture with a deliciously rich flavor.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, beat together sugar, butter, and cream cheese until smooth to ensure a creamy and fluffy base for the cookie dough.
- Add Flavors and Egg: Incorporate the egg yolk, salt, almond extract, and vanilla extract into the mixture, stirring well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the dough.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing continuously until the dough comes together and forms a smooth consistency suitable for rolling.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into three equal portions, shape each into a disk, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Refrigerate: Place the wrapped dough disks in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up for easier handling.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while you prepare your cookies.
- Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even baking.
- Cut Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut the rolled dough into your desired shapes, then place the cutouts onto an ungreased baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are perfectly cooked with a soft center.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or decorating.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential for easier handling and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats on the baking sheet to prevent sticking, if preferred.
- These cookies can be decorated with icing or sprinkles once cooled.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.
- For a stronger almond flavor, consider using almond extract exclusively or adding a small amount of finely chopped almonds if desired.
