Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

by

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies 🍪💚💖

Introduction

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a rich, tender, and slightly tangy flavor thanks to the addition of cream cheese. These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them perfect for any occasion—holiday baking, special celebrations, or just an everyday treat. Their versatility allows for creative decorating with icing, sprinkles, or even a simple dusting of sugar.

History of Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies have been a beloved treat for centuries, originating in Europe and later becoming popular in the United States. The classic sugar cookie recipe evolved over time, with bakers experimenting by adding ingredients like sour cream or cream cheese to enhance texture and flavor. The addition of cream cheese provides extra richness, making these cookies softer and more flavorful than traditional sugar cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For Decoration (Optional):

  • Colored sugar or sprinkles
  • Royal icing or cream cheese frosting

Methods of Preparation

Method 1: Making the Cookie Dough

  1. Cream the butter, cream cheese, and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese, and sugar together until light and fluffy. This helps incorporate air for a soft texture.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract – Mix in the egg and vanilla until fully combined.
  3. Whisk the dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Chill the dough – Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Method 2: Shaping & Baking the Cookies

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the dough – On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
  3. Cut out shapes – Use cookie cutters to create fun designs, or shape them into simple rounds.
  4. Decorate before baking (optional) – Sprinkle with colored sugar or leave plain for later frosting.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes – The cookies should be set but not browned. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Method 3: Decorating (Optional)

  1. Use royal icing – Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a smooth icing for piping.
  2. Cream cheese frosting – Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla for a rich topping.
  3. Add sprinkles or edible glitter – Decorate as desired for a festive look.

Formation & Texture

These cookies are soft, slightly chewy, and have a buttery flavor enhanced by the cream cheese. The dough rolls out smoothly, making it perfect for cutout cookies that hold their shape well. If frosted, the cookies become even more decadent, with a balance of sweetness and tanginess.

Who Loves These Cookies?

  • Holiday bakers – A staple for Christmas, Easter, and Valentine’s Day treats.
  • Kids and families – Fun to decorate and delicious to eat!
  • Soft cookie lovers – Those who prefer a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture over crunchy cookies.
  • Cream cheese enthusiasts – Fans of rich, slightly tangy baked goods.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are a delicious variation of the traditional sugar cookie, offering a softer texture and richer flavor. Whether enjoyed plain, sprinkled with sugar, or topped with frosting, they make a perfect treat for any occasion. Try different shapes, flavors, and decorations to make these cookies uniquely yours!

Would you like some flavor variations, like adding lemon zest or almond extract?

Leave a Comment