If you’re looking for the perfect cookie recipe that combines soft texture with rich flavor, these Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are exactly what you need. Unlike traditional sugar cookies that can sometimes turn out dry or crumbly, the addition of cream cheese creates an irresistibly tender bite with just the right amount of sweetness. These cookies are incredibly versatile – perfect for holiday celebrations, birthday parties, or even as a special breakfast treat with your morning coffee.
What makes these cookies truly special is how well they hold intricate designs when decorated. Whether you’re using royal icing, buttercream, or simple sprinkles, the smooth surface of these cookies makes them a baker’s dream. The cream cheese adds a subtle tang that beautifully balances the sweetness, creating a flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more. If you love baking cookies but want something a step above the ordinary, this recipe will become your new go-to.
2. Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to cookie perfection. For these Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies, you’ll need:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – The base of our cookie dough that provides richness
4 oz cream cheese, softened – The secret ingredient that makes these cookies extra soft
1 cup granulated sugar – For just the right amount of sweetness
1 large egg – Binds everything together
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor
3 cups all-purpose flour – The structure of our cookies
1/2 tsp baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly
1/4 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors
For those who love experimenting with flavors, you might want to check out our Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas for savory inspiration that balances out your sweet tooth!
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
Begin by placing your softened butter and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat them together for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because properly creaming these ingredients incorporates air into the dough, which results in lighter, more tender cookies. Make sure your ingredients are truly at room temperature – if they’re too cold, you’ll end up with lumps, and if they’re too warm, the texture won’t be right.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Wet Ingredients
Now gradually add the granulated sugar to your butter-cream cheese mixture. Add it about 1/4 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual process helps create a light, fluffy texture rather than a dense one. Once all the sugar is incorporated, continue beating for another 2 minutes until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter in color. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Overmixing at this stage can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of egg.
If you’re enjoying this baking process, you might also love exploring our dinner recipes for complete meal ideas!
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, mixing on low speed just until the flour is incorporated after each addition. When you no longer see dry flour, stop mixing – even if there are a few small lumps. The dough will come together when you refrigerate it. Overmixing develops gluten, which makes cookies tough rather than tender.
For more baking tips and tricks, visit our About page to learn about our kitchen-tested methods!
Step 4: Roll and Cut the Dough
Divide your dough into two equal portions and flatten each into a disk about 1-inch thick. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 2 days). This chilling period is essential because it allows the flour to fully hydrate and the butter to firm up, preventing excessive spreading during baking. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Working with one disk at a time (keeping the other chilled), roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters dipped in flour to prevent sticking, and transfer cut-outs to prepared baking sheets.
If you’re looking for more recipes that use similar techniques, check out our chicken recipes section for main dish inspiration!
4. Baking Instructions
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The exact time will depend on your oven and the size of your cookies. They’re done when the edges are just barely starting to turn golden – the centers should still look soft. Remember that cookies continue to cook on the hot baking sheet after removal from the oven, so it’s better to slightly underbake them than overbake. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period allows them to set properly without breaking.
For those who enjoy both sweet and savory, our beef recipes offer great options for balancing your menu!
5. Decorating Tips
Once completely cooled, it’s time to decorate! These cookies are perfect for royal icing, which dries hard and is ideal for intricate designs. For a simpler approach, mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla for a basic glaze. If using sprinkles or colored sugars, apply them immediately after icing while it’s still wet. For professional-looking results, consider using piping bags with small tips for detailed work. Let decorated cookies dry completely before stacking or packaging.
6. Storage Tips
Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Decorated cookies with royal icing can be stored for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months – place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. You can also freeze the dough (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.
7. Variations
This versatile recipe welcomes creativity! For citrus lovers, add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough. Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon) makes a delicious variation. For chocolate cookies, replace 1/4 cup flour with cocoa powder. During holidays, try rolling the dough in colored sugar before baking for festive sparkle. For more inspiration, check out this external resource on creative cookie decorating ideas.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: While full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor, low-fat can be substituted if needed. The cookies might be slightly less tender.
Q: Why do I need to chill the dough?
A: Chilling prevents excessive spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their beautiful shapes. It also allows flavors to develop.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
These Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are truly special – soft yet sturdy, sweet with just a hint of tang, and perfect for any decorating style. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time. They’re sure to become a family favorite and a go-to for all your special occasions. For more amazing recipes, don’t forget to explore our homepage where we share all our kitchen-tested favorites. Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet bite! 🎉🍪
Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a richer, softer texture thanks to the addition of cream cheese. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re decorating them for holidays, parties, or simply enjoying them as a sweet treat. The cream cheese adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness, making them a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, beating until light and fluffy. Then, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Divide the dough into two portions and flatten into disks. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cut-out cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For best results, use full-fat cream cheese.
Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading.
Decorate with royal icing, buttercream, or sprinkles once cooled.
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
