Name: Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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If you’re on the hunt for the softest, most luscious sugar cookie that actually holds its shape for decorating, Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are about to become your new obsession. These cookies have a rich, tender crumb thanks to the magic of cream cheese, balancing sweet vanilla and just a hint of tang. They’re easy enough for a weeknight treat but special enough for your next celebration or holiday cookie exchange — trust me, everyone will ask for the recipe!

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies lies in their classic, straightforward ingredients, each adding something irreplaceable to the party. As you prep, remember: freshness and quality are key, since every subtle flavor shines through in this dough.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Brings all that buttery richness and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cream cheese (3 oz, softened): The secret weapon for tender, soft cookies that stay moist — and that signature flavor pop!
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Just the right sweetness and helps with that perfect golden color as the cookies bake.
Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds subtle richness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): For classic cookie perfume and flavor. Don’t even think of skipping it.
Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A little goes a long way if you want that bakery-style edge — totally up to you!
All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Gives the cookies structure, so they hold their perfect cut-out shapes.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives just a touch of lift for delicate softness.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Makes every sweet and creamy note pop.

How to Make Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar

Start by blending the butter, cream cheese, and sugar in a large bowl. This isn’t just mixing — really whip it until it’s pale and fluffy. You’re incorporating air here, which makes the cookies extra tender. If you’re using a mixer, go for about two to three minutes on medium speed.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Extracts

Once your mixture is cloud-like, add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re feeling fancy. Mix until everything is just combined — no need to overdo it, just enough so it’s smooth and silky.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This distributes the leavening super evenly, which is important for bake consistency. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft, cohesive dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half, flatten each into a disc, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for at least an hour — overnight is even better. This step is essential for Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies that hold their shape (and for easier rolling).

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Working with one dough disc at a time, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Break out your favorite cookie cutters and have at it! Place cookies an inch apart on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until the edges are barely tinged golden. Don’t be tempted to overbake — these are meant to stay soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for five minutes; then transfer them to a rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Decorate (Optional)

Once the cookies are fully cool, get creative with your favorite icing, sprinkles, or colored sugars. The slightly tangy base of these Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies pairs beautifully with both simple and flashy decorations, so let your imagination run wild!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

There’s endless fun in dressing up Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies. Classic royal icing gives a crisp, elegant finish, while a quick glaze and a scattering of sparkling sugar evoke pure joy. Chopped nuts, dried fruit bits, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate can give your cookies that bakery masterpiece touch.

Side Dishes

Pairing these cookies is a delight. Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a dreamy dessert plate, or set them out with fresh berries and a pot of rich coffee or tea for the ultimate afternoon treat. They complement creamy desserts, like pudding or mousse, beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack a half-dozen Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies in a cellophane bag, tied with a ribbon, for adorable homemade gifts. For parties, spread the cookies on a colorful platter, arranging them by shape or icing color. Kids and adults alike will flock to a DIY cookie decorating station, turning dessert into an interactive event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your cookies irresistibly soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and tender for about four to five days — just tuck a slice of bread in the container if you ever need to maintain extra moisture.

Freezing

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are freezer champions. Either freeze the dough discs well wrapped for up to three months or stash baked, unfrosted cookies in airtight bags for future treat emergencies. Let them thaw at room temperature before decorating or serving.

Reheating

If you love a cookie with that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for five to eight seconds before serving — it revives the softness and releases those dreamy aromas. Avoid microwaving decorated cookies with delicate icing, as it can melt the design.

FAQs

Can I make Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies without almond extract?

Absolutely! The almond extract is optional, but it does give a subtle, almost “bakery” flavor that many people love. If you prefer, just swap in extra vanilla extract or skip it entirely for classic vanilla-forward cookies.

What’s the best way to roll out the dough evenly?

I recommend using rolling pin spacers or two wooden dowels on either side of your dough to get that perfect 1/4-inch thickness. Chilling the dough thoroughly also keeps it from sticking or tearing as you work, making the process much easier.

How do I keep my cookies soft after baking?

Don’t overbake! Once the edges just barely start turning golden, pull them out. Cooling them completely before storing and keeping them in an airtight container helps lock in softness. A slice of white bread in the container works wonders, too.

Can I decorate these cookies with royal icing?

Yes, these Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are famously sturdy and smooth, making them the perfect base for royal icing, glazes, or any decorations you love. Make sure cookies are cooled completely before decorating for best results.

Is it possible to freeze decorated cookies?

You can freeze decorated cookies, just be sure the icing is completely set. Layer cookies between parchment in an airtight container, and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve. Some delicate decorations might lose their shine in the freezer, so plain cookies are safer for long-term storage.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly joyful about biting into a soft, buttery Cream Cheese Sugar Cookie — you taste the love in every crumb. Whether you dress them up for a party or keep them simple for weeknight baking, these cookies are guaranteed to win hearts. Treat yourself to a batch soon, and let the compliments roll in!

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe

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4.6 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 24–30 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies. With the added richness of cream cheese, these cookies are soft, tender, and perfect for decorating. A must-have for holiday baking or any special occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Creaming the Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
Preparing the Dough: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour.
Baking the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters. Place cookies on prepared sheets about 1 inch apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate if desired.