The Best Cream Cheese Cookies

Baking a classic batch of cream cheese cookies is always a good idea. They are soft without being cakey, rich without being heavy, and delicately sweet. These cream cheese cookies are not an “attention hog” kind of treat, they’re an every day, ol’ faithful kind of cookie to have with coffee!

Another underrated every day dessert? Mini Cardamom Tea Cakes!

Watch The How-To Video

What Makes Cream Cheese Cookies Different Than Sugar Cookies?

The addition of cream cheese changes the structure of the dough in a few important ways.

Cream cheese adds fat and moisture. This combination results in cookies that are tender and soft from the center to the edge. You do not get the crisp snap that some sugar cookies have. Instead, you get a consistency that melts in your mouth. These are in the same category as Old Fashioned Butter Cookies.

Cream cheese also contributes a distinct tang to the flavor of the cookie. It is not sour, but it provides contrast to the sweetness of the sugar and vanilla. This makes the cookies taste more balanced and less one dimensional.

Finally, cream cheese helps prevent cookies from drying out. Even after several days, cream cheese cookies tend to stay soft if stored correctly (see notes on this later in the post). This makes them ideal for gifting or baking ahead for events.

Why These Cookies Do Not Require Chilling

Many cookie recipes require chilling the dough before baking, but cream cheese cookies are an exception. Because the dough contains plenty of fat from both butter and cream cheese, it holds its shape well without chilling.

As long as your butter and cream cheese are not overly warm when you start, the dough should be soft but manageable. This makes cream cheese cookies a great option when you want cookies quickly without planning ahead.

Skipping the chilling step also means the cookies bake more evenly. The edges set just as the centers finish baking, resulting in a consistent texture throughout.

This no chill aspect is one of the reasons so many home bakers love this recipe.

How To Make Cream Cheese Cookies, Step-By-Step

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or use a Silpat baking mat.
   
2. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
   
3. Add Sugar and Wet Ingredients: Add granulated sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
   
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky. (If it feels too sticky, add an extra tablespoon of flour.)
   
5. Form Cookies: Scoop or roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. For a flatter cookie, gently press the tops with the bottom of a glass.
   
6. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden and the tops look set but still pale.
   
7. Cool and Finish: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust lightly with powdered sugar and enjoy!

Baking Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Cookies

Even simple cookies benefit from a few smart baking tips. Here are some ways to make sure your cream cheese cookies turn out beautifully every time.

Use room temperature ingredients. Softened butter and cream cheese blend more smoothly and create a uniform dough.

Do not overmix. Once the flour is added, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

Watch the oven closely. These cookies should be removed as soon as the edges turn lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underdone, but they will continue to set as they cool.

Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to firm up slightly without drying out.

How to Store Cream Cheese Cookies

Proper storage helps keep cream cheese cookies soft and fresh. Once fully cooled, they should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

They will stay fresh and soft for up to five days when stored properly. If you live in a particularly warm or humid environment, you may prefer to refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Cream cheese cookies also freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer safe container or bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Freezing makes it easy to bake ahead and always have a treat on hand.

Make Ahead and Freezer Friendly Tips

If you like to plan ahead, cream cheese cookies are a great option. You can bake them completely, cool them, and freeze them for later use.

When freezing, layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Label the container with the date so you know when they were baked.

When you are ready to serve, simply let them thaw at room temperature. There is no need to reheat, as they retain their soft texture naturally.

This makes them especially helpful during busy seasons like the holidays when oven space and time are limited.

Common Questions About Cream Cheese Cookies

Do cream cheese cookies taste like cream cheese?

They have a subtle tang, but they do not taste like cheesecake. The flavor is mild and balanced.

Are cream cheese cookies soft or crispy?

They are soft and tender with lightly golden edges. They are not meant to be crispy.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, they store well at room temperature and freeze beautifully.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This can happen if the butter or cream cheese was too warm. Make sure both are softened, not melted.

Can I decorate these cookies?

Absolutely. A dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but you can also drizzle with glaze or add sprinkles.

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