These Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that will melt in your mouth, perfect for any occasion! Their unique balance of sweetness and tang, complemented by a hint of vanilla, makes them irresistible. Whether youβre hosting a holiday gathering, looking for an afternoon snack, or simply craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to impress. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgence.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
- Unique Flavor: The addition of cream cheese brings a rich tanginess that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just becauseβthese cookies fit any occasion beautifully.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The combination of butter and cream cheese creates an incredibly soft and tender cookie.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to make each batch uniquely yours!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your cream cheese cookies, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or Silpat
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or electric hand mixer: These tools make creaming butter and cream cheese easy, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; having multiple sizes will help manage different stages of the recipe.
- Parchment paper or Silpat: These surfaces prevent sticking and ensure even baking for perfect cookies every time.
Ingredients
These easy cream cheese cookies MELT In your mouth and have a perfect balance of sweetness, tang and vanilla.
For the Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g, room temperature)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (113g, room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (10mL)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (210g)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Cream Cheese Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Set aside to ensure they are well combined before adding to the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or an electric hand mixer:
1. Cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the sugar while mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Add the dry mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined.
2. Use a spatula to scrape down the bottom of the bowl.
3. Give it one last gentle mix then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
Step 4: Bake Your Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C):
1. Portion out roughly two tablespoon-sized pieces of dough and roll them into balls.
2. Dampen your hands slightly if needed to manage stickiness.
3. Place them about two inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or Silpat.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are set and just turning golden.
Enjoy your freshly baked cream cheese cookies!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Cookies
Cream cheese cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.
With Tea or Coffee
- Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The creamy texture complements the rich flavors of your beverage.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cream cheese cookies on a beautiful dessert platter. Add fresh fruits and nuts for color and variety, making it visually appealing.
As Party Favors
- Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. They make excellent party favors for weddings, birthdays, or holiday gatherings.
Alongside Ice Cream
- Serve warm cream cheese cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of temperatures is a delightful treat for your taste buds.
With Milk
- Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk. This classic combo is loved by both kids and adults alike!
Topped with Sprinkles
- Add a fun twist by topping the cookies with colorful sprinkles after baking. This is especially great for kidsβ parties!
How to Perfect Cream Cheese Cookies
To achieve the best results when making cream cheese cookies, consider these helpful tips.
Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and cream cheese to sit out before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that blends well.
Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before baking. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off without packing it down. This ensures you use the right amount for the perfect texture.
Donβt overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.
Watch baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Remove them when edges are set but centers are still soft for that melt-in-your-mouth effect.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add lemon zest, chocolate chips, or nuts to your dough for added flavor and texture variations.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Cookies
Cream cheese cookies pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweet and tangy flavor profile. Here are some tasty options to consider:
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds bright flavors that balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with dessert.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the cookieβs richness.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm melted chocolate for an indulgent treat thatβs sure to impress guests.
Nut Mix: A simple bowl of mixed nuts provides crunch and saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Coffee Cake: Offer slices of coffee cake alongside your cookies for a delightful brunch pairing thatβs perfect for gatherings.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae station where guests can top their cookie bites with ice cream and toppings of their choice!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making cream cheese cookies, itβs easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a lumpy batter. Always let these ingredients sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before starting.
Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long after adding the flour can make the cookies tough. Combine just until you see no dry flour for a perfect texture.
Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Always allow at least an hour in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
Incorrect oven temperature: An oven thatβs too hot can lead to burnt edges and raw centers. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed for accuracy.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can drastically change your cookieβs texture. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cream cheese cookies in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to one week.
- Layer parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Cream Cheese Cookies
- Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Cream Cheese Cookies
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, placing cookies inside covered until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What are cream cheese cookies?
Cream cheese cookies are soft, sweet treats made with cream cheese as a key ingredient, giving them a rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How do I make cream cheese cookies from scratch?
To make cream cheese cookies from scratch, mix softened cream cheese with butter and sugar, add an egg and vanilla, then combine with flour and other dry ingredients before baking.
Can I freeze cream cheese cookies?
Yes! You can freeze cream cheese cookies by wrapping them individually and storing them in an airtight container for up to three months.
What variations can I try with cream cheese cookies?
You can customize your cream cheese cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
How long do cream cheese cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, cream cheese cookies will last about one week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
These cream cheese cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With their delightful balance of tanginess and sweetness, they are perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a tryβyou wonβt be disappointed!

Cream Cheese Cookies
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the heavenly delight of Cream Cheese Cookies, where each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you craving for more. This irresistible treat harmonizes sweetness with a tangy cream cheese twist and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for any occasionβbe it a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon snackβthese cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. With their soft, tender texture and customizable options like chocolate chips or nuts, these cookies will surely impress family and friends alike. Get ready to enjoy a delightful baking experience thatβs as easy as it is satisfying!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113g), room temperature
- 4 ounces cream cheese (113g), room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (10mL)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (210g)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder; set aside.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until light and fluffy. Incorporate the egg and vanilla.
- Add the dry mixture to wet ingredients and mix on low speed until just combined. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Preheat oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Roll dough into balls about two tablespoons each and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending. Chill the dough to prevent spreading during baking. Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or spices for varied flavors.