How to Make Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies: The Ultimate Guide
These cream cheese sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly balanced with the subtle tanginess of cream cheese. They offer a unique twist on the classic sugar cookie, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s irresistible. With a simple list of ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—from casual snacks to festive gatherings. Whether you enjoy them as-is or with colorful sprinkles, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3️⃣ In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
4️⃣ Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
5️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If the dough feels too stiff, add the milk and stir until smooth.
6️⃣ Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7️⃣ Gently press each ball with the back of a fork or your fingers to flatten slightly.
8️⃣ Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9️⃣ Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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Texture: The cream cheese in this recipe creates an extra-soft and delicate cookie. Don’t be alarmed if the dough seems a little sticky; that’s part of the process. If needed, add a tablespoon of milk for a smoother dough consistency.
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Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft and sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes before shaping it into balls. Chilling the dough helps prevent excessive spreading during baking.
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Make Ahead: You can freeze the dough balls for later use. Simply freeze them until firm, then store them in an airtight container or bag. When you’re ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavor additions like lemon zest, cinnamon, or chocolate chips to personalize your cookies. You can also roll them in colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for an extra festive touch.
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Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you have extras, they also freeze well for longer storage.