Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

why make this recipe

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for any occasion. These cookies are not only easy to make, but they also have a rich flavor that comes from the cream cheese. The frosting adds a sweet touch and can be decorated with colorful sprinkles for a fun look. They are great for holidays, birthdays, or just a simple treat to enjoy at home.

how to make Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 6 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ¾ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 6 Tablespoons salted butter, softened
  • 6 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • Sprinkles for decorating (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Use an electric mixer to blend until creamy and well-combined.
  3. Next, add the sugar and mix until fully combined.
  4. Then, stir in the egg and vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until everything is well combined.
  7. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Form it into a ball and roll out the dough to just under ½ inch thick.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Once baked, allow them to cool completely.
  10. For the frosting, mix together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Gradually add the powdered sugar until fully blended, then stir in the cornstarch.
  12. Frost the cooled cookies and decorate with optional sprinkles.

how to serve Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

These cookies can be served directly after frosting. They look delightful on a platter, and you can add a variety of sprinkles for an added touch of fun. Pair them with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage for the perfect snack.

how to store Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just ensure they are well covered to prevent them from drying out.

tips to make Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

  • Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be just set at the edges to remain soft.
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out if it’s too sticky.
  • Use different cookie cutters for various shapes and themes, especially during festive seasons.

variation

You can customize these cookies with flavors like almond extract instead of vanilla, or add chocolate chips for extra sweetness. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Just shape it into a disk, wrap it well in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge before rolling it out.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese. However, it may slightly change the texture and taste of the cookies.

3. How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix or almond flour. Make sure the other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

Soft, chewy cookies enriched with cream cheese and topped with a sweet frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature Ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
  • 6 oz cream cheese, softened Use full-fat cream cheese for best results.
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Pure vanilla extract is recommended.
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with a gluten-free mix.
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ¾ teaspoon baking powder Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
For the Frosting
  • 6 Tablespoons salted butter, softened
  • 6 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • Sprinkles for decorating Optional but adds a fun touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Use an electric mixer to blend until creamy and well-combined.
  3. Add the sugar and mix until fully combined.
  4. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until everything is well combined.
  7. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Form it into a ball and roll out the dough to just under ½ inch thick.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Baking
  1. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Once baked, allow them to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar until fully blended, then stir in the cornstarch.
  3. Frost the cooled cookies and decorate with optional sprinkles.

Notes

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for up to two weeks.