Cream Cheese Cookies: A Simple Recipe for Irresistible Treats
Are you craving a delicious and easy-to-make cookie? Look no further! This recipe for cream cheese cookies will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. These cookies are incredibly soft, melt-in-your-mouth delightful, and perfect for any occasion. Let's get baking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is crucial for a smooth and creamy dough.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps to brown the cookies beautifully.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a richer flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your cookies. Gradually add this to avoid a dry dough.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create perfect cream cheese cookies:
1. Cream Together the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until well combined. The mixture should be light and fluffy.
2. Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
4. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended):
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. This step is highly recommended for perfect, thick cookies.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your warm, delicious cream cheese cookies!
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Cookies:
- Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures proper mixing and a smooth dough.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: Chilling prevents spreading and ensures thicker cookies.
- Use a cookie scoop: For uniform size and baking time.
- Experiment with variations: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles for extra deliciousness!
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