Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Soft and Tender Texture: The addition of cream cheese results in an exceptionally soft and tender cookie that stays moist longer than traditional sugar cookies.
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Delicate Flavor: A hint of almond extract complements the cream cheese, providing a unique and delightful flavor profile.
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Versatility: These cookies hold their shape well, making them ideal for cut-out designs and various decorations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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White sugar
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Butter, softened
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Cream cheese, softened
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Large egg yolk
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Salt
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Almond extract
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Vanilla extract
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All-purpose flour
Directions
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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.
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Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into thirds, shape each portion into a disk, wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
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Roll and Cut: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough disk to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.
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Bake: Place the cut-out cookies onto ungreased baking sheets. 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
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Yield: Approximately 72 cookies
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Chill Time: 8 hours
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Cook Time: 7 to 10 minutes per batch
Variations
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Flavor Adjustments: Substitute the almond extract with lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
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Decorations: Frost with cream cheese icing, royal icing, or a simple glaze. Add sprinkles, colored sugars, or edible glitter for festive occasions.
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Shapes and Sizes: Customize the cookies with various cookie cutter shapes to suit different themes and events.
Storage/Reheating
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Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
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Refrigeration: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
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Freezing: Freeze baked cookies or raw dough for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving or baking.
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Reheating: Allow refrigerated or frozen cookies to come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What makes cream cheese sugar cookies different from regular sugar cookies?
The inclusion of cream cheese adds a subtle tang and results in a softer, more tender texture compared to traditional sugar cookies.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions may alter the cookie’s consistency.
Do I have to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling the dough is essential as it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances the flavor.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.
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.
What type of frosting pairs well with these cookies?
Cream cheese frosting complements the flavor nicely, but royal icing or a simple powdered sugar glaze also work well.
Can I add food coloring to the dough?
Yes, you can add food coloring to the dough during mixing to create colorful cookies.
How thick should I roll the dough?
Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness for a balanced texture that is neither too thin nor too thick.
Are these cookies suitable for cookie cutters?
Yes, the firm yet pliable dough is excellent for using with cookie cutters of various shapes.
How do I store decorated cookies?
Once the icing or decorations have fully set, store the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container to prevent smudging.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies offer a delightful variation on a classic favorite, combining a tender texture with a rich, nuanced flavor. Their versatility in shape and decoration makes them suitable for any occasion, and with proper storage, they remain fresh and delicious for days. Enjoy baking and sharing these delectable treats with friends and family!
Print
Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: ~8 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 72 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and deliciously tender with a hint of almond and vanilla. The addition of cream cheese gives them a melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them perfect for cut-out shapes and festive decorations. These cookies are easy to make and ideal for holidays, special occasions, or an everyday sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar, butter, and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolk, salt, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
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Chill the Dough
- Divide the dough into thirds, shape each portion into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
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Roll and Cut
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to create desired shapes.
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Bake
- Place cookies on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 7-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Flavor Variations: Swap almond extract for lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Decoration Ideas: Frost with cream cheese icing, royal icing, or a simple glaze. Add sprinkles for a festive look.
- Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 8 hours
- Cook Time: 7-10 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
