There’s something magically inviting about Easy Cream Cheese Cookies: a soft, melt-in-your-mouth treat with a hint of tang, sweet vanilla aroma, and just the right amount of golden edges. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this is one of those recipes you’ll bookmark for last-minute gatherings, gifting, or a well-deserved treat with your afternoon coffee. Over the years, these cookies have become my go-to whenever I crave something simple yet indulgent, and I can’t wait to share them with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Easy Cream Cheese Cookies is as easy as opening your pantry and fridge! Each component here plays a special role: adding plush texture, flavor depth, and just a hint of magic to every bite.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): This provides a creamy, rich base and helps achieve that tender crumb we all crave.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): The secret star—adds that unmistakable tang and makes these cookies super soft and pillowy.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Essential for sweetness and also for helping the butter and cream cheese whip into a light, airy mixture.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together while giving the cookies structure and subtle richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A touch of vanilla brings warmth and makes the flavor sing.
- All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups): The backbone of the dough, giving the cookies just the right body without making them heavy.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Ensures the cookies rise slightly for that gentle puffiness you’ll love.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances all the sweet and tangy flavors—a little goes a long way!
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting: A light finish of powdered sugar adds a pretty, bakery-style touch—and a whisper of extra sweetness.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when your dough is mixed. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper—even if your pans are non-stick, parchment guarantees easy cookie removal and perfect golden bottoms every time!
Step 2: Beat Butter and Cream Cheese
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your softened butter and cream cheese. Beat them together using a hand mixer (or a stand mixer) until the mixture looks creamy and completely smooth. This sets the stage for the dreamy texture in every Easy Cream Cheese Cookie.
Step 3: Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla
Pour in the sugar and continue to beat until it’s light and fluffy—this aerates the dough for extra softness. Crack in your egg and drizzle in the vanilla extract, then mix until everything is well blended and silky.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures your leavening and seasonings are evenly dispersed, so every cookie rises and tastes just right.
Step 5: Make the Dough
Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or by hand just until a soft dough forms—be careful not to overmix so your cookies stay tender.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, place rounded mounds of dough onto your baking sheets, giving each about 2 inches of space. Gently flatten each mound—either with your fingers or the bottom of a glass—to create pretty little discs that bake evenly.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching for the edges to set and just start to turn golden. Don’t over-bake; you want these Easy Cream Cheese Cookies to stay soft and pale in the center! Let them cool on the pan for five minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. For a beautiful finish, dust with powdered sugar once they’re completely cool.
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Cookies
Garnishes
A quick sweep of powdered sugar is classic and fuss-free, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for a festive flair, drizzle with a touch of melted white chocolate, or add a zest of lemon for a burst of brightness. Even a light pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can add lovely warmth.
Side Dishes
These cookies make the perfect pairing with piping-hot coffee, soothing tea, or even a cold glass of milk. For gatherings, place them on a platter with fresh berries or a fruit salad so guests can mix and match bites of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Package Easy Cream Cheese Cookies in a decorative tin or cellophane bags for delightful homemade gifts—tie them with a ribbon for an extra special touch! If you’re hosting, try stacking them on a tiered dessert stand or arranging them in the shape of a wreath for a holiday table centerpiece. They also shine tucked alongside other cookies for a beautiful dessert platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay soft and delicious for about 3 days. If your kitchen is warm or humid, keep them in the refrigerator to preserve freshness, letting them come to room temp before serving.
Freezing
Easy Cream Cheese Cookies freeze like a dream! Arrange the completely cooled cookies in layers with parchment between each layer inside a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
If you want that just-baked warmth, pop a few cookies (thaw first if frozen) on a baking sheet and warm them in a 300°F oven for 4–5 minutes. This refreshes their soft centers and makes the house smell absolutely irresistible all over again.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
You can, but keep in mind that using low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese will slightly change the texture and richness. The cookies may be a bit less soft and flavorful, but still tasty!
Can I make Easy Cream Cheese Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum for best results, as it helps with structure and chewiness.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
If your Easy Cream Cheese Cookies spread a lot, it could be because your butter and cream cheese were too warm, or the flour was under-measured. Chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking next time, and be sure to scoop flour using the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Stir in up to 3/4 cup of mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit after mixing the dough. It’s a fun way to change up the cookies for holidays or special occasions.
How long can I keep the raw dough in the fridge?
The dough for Easy Cream Cheese Cookies can be made ahead and chilled for up to 2 days before baking. Cover tightly and store in the fridge, then scoop and bake as directed when ready.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a sure-to-please cookie that’s as easy as it is irresistible, you simply can’t go wrong with Easy Cream Cheese Cookies. They’re the kind of treat that makes everyone smile, whether you serve them plain, dressed up, or share them as a heartfelt homemade gift. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and bring a batch to life—I promise, you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
Print
Easy Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Cream Cheese Cookies are soft, tender, and utterly delicious. With a hint of cream cheese flavor and a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional for Dusting:
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Egg: Mix in the sugar until light and fluffy, then add the egg and vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, forming a soft dough.
- Bake: Scoop tablespoons of dough onto baking sheets, flatten slightly, and bake for 10–12 minutes until set.
- Cool and Dust: Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- For a festive touch, add mini chocolate chips, lemon zest, or almond extract.
- These cookies freeze well and make great holiday gifts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
