Cream cheese sugar cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a soft, tender texture with a subtle tangy flavor from the cream cheese. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you're baking for the holidays, a special event, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Tender Texture: The addition of cream cheese results in a cookie that's both soft and chewy, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Delicate Flavor: A hint of almond extract complements the cream cheese, giving these cookies a unique and delightful taste.
Versatility: Ideal for cutting into various shapes and decorating with your choice of frosting and sprinkles, making them perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

White sugar
Butter, softened
Cream cheese, softened
Large egg yolk
Salt
Almond extract
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, softened butter, and cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg yolk, salt, almond extract, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate the flour until the dough forms.
Chill: Divide the dough into thirds, shape each into a disk, wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Roll and Cut: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out each dough disk to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Yield: Approximately 6 dozen cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 8 hours
Cook Time: 7 to 10 minutes per batch
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes

Variations

Flavor Adjustments: Substitute almond extract with lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Frosting Options: Top with a simple powdered sugar glaze, cream cheese frosting, or royal icing, and decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar.
Shape Customization: Use various cookie cutter shapes to suit different holidays and occasions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freezing: Place unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

What makes cream cheese sugar cookies different from regular sugar cookies?

The inclusion of cream cheese adds a subtle tanginess and results in a softer, more tender texture compared to traditional sugar cookies.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to three days before baking.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough is essential as it firms up the fat, making the dough easier to roll and helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.

What type of frosting works best with these cookies?

A simple powdered sugar glaze, cream cheese frosting, or royal icing pairs well, allowing for easy decoration.

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid overmixing the dough, which can incorporate excess air and cause spreading.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

For the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to use full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat versions may alter the cookie's consistency.

How thick should I roll the dough?

Rolling the dough to about ¼-inch thickness yields a cookie that's sturdy enough for decorating yet soft and tender.

Is it necessary to use both almond and vanilla extracts?

While both extracts contribute to the cookie's unique flavor profile, you can use just one or substitute with other flavors based on your preference.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are ready when the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft texture.

Conclusion

Cream cheese sugar cookies offer a delightful variation on a classic treat, combining a tender texture with a rich, nuanced flavor. Their versatility in shape and decoration makes them a favorite for various occasions. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with frosting and sprinkles, these cookies are sure to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire.

Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

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Author: Emmily
Total Time: ~8 hours 45 minutes
Yield: About 6 dozen cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cream cheese sugar cookies are soft, tender, and delicately flavored with vanilla and almond extract. The addition of cream cheese gives them a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them perfect for holidays, special occasions, or everyday treats. These easy-to-make cookies hold their shape well and can be decorated with icing or sprinkles.

Ingredients

1 cup white sugar
1 cup butter, softened
3 oz cream cheese, softened
1 large egg yolk
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp almond extract
½ tsp vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, beat together sugar, butter, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Add egg yolk, salt, almond extract, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until dough forms.
Chill the Dough
- Divide the dough into thirds, shape each into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Roll and Cut
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters and place on ungreased baking sheets.
Bake
- Bake for 7-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.