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
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
