Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies

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A delightful twist on a classic favorite, cream cheese sugar cookies offer a soft, rich texture with a hint of tangy goodness. These cookies are perfect for holidays, celebrations, or a sweet treat any time of the year.

What Are Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies?

Cream cheese sugar cookies are soft and chewy cookies made with a blend of butter and cream cheese, giving them a unique texture and rich flavor. They are versatile and can be cut into fun shapes or simply rolled into soft, pillowy rounds.

The Origin of Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies have a long history dating back to the 1700s when German settlers in Pennsylvania created the earliest versions. Over time, they evolved into the popular holiday cookies we know today. The addition of cream cheese is a modern innovation that enhances the classic sugar cookie by making it softer and more flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft and Chewy Texture: The addition of cream cheese keeps these cookies incredibly soft.
  • Perfect for Decorating: Holds shape well for cut-out cookies.
  • Versatile: Great for holidays, parties, or everyday treats.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.

Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best cream cheese sugar cookies:

  • All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and enhances flavor.
  • Cream Cheese: Gives a soft texture and slight tang.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps with the cookie’s crisp edges.
  • Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet note.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
  2. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
  6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

2. Rolling and Cutting

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface.
  3. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
  4. Place on a lined baking sheet.

3. Baking

  1. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
  2. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Decorating Ideas

  • Royal Icing: A classic option for detailed decorations.
  • Sprinkles: Add fun colors and textures.
  • Melted Chocolate Drizzle: A simple yet elegant touch.
  • Powdered Sugar Dusting: For a light, sweet finish.

Best Occasions to Enjoy These Cookies

  • Holidays: Christmas, Easter, and Halloween.
  • Special Events: Birthdays, baby showers, and weddings.
  • Everyday Treats: A perfect snack with coffee or tea.

Storage and Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze unbaked dough for up to 3 months.
  • Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Overmixing the Dough: Leads to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
  • Skipping the Chilling Step: Makes rolling and cutting difficult.
  • Overbaking: Results in dry cookies. Bake just until edges are golden.

Fun Facts About Sugar Cookies

  • The first documented sugar cookie recipe appeared in 1700s Pennsylvania.
  • National Sugar Cookie Day is celebrated on July 9th.
  • Sugar cookies are one of the most popular Christmas treats in the U.S.

FAQs

Do sugar cookies with cream cheese need to be refrigerated?

Yes, the dough should be refrigerated before rolling to prevent spreading. Baked cookies can be stored at room temperature.

What happens if you over cream butter and sugar for cookies?

Overmixing incorporates too much air, leading to a dry and crumbly texture.

What does cream cheese do for cookies?

Cream cheese adds moisture and a soft, tender texture while enhancing flavor.

What are some fun facts about sugar cookies?

They originated in Pennsylvania and have been a holiday staple for centuries.

Suggested Recipes

For more savory recipes, you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here www.ledstk.com.

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