Name: Cream Cheese Cookies
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup white chocolate chips; ½ cup rainbow sprinkles; ½ teaspoon almond extract; Lemon zest for a citrus twist; ¼ cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins

½ cup white chocolate chips
½ cup rainbow sprinkles
½ teaspoon almond extract
Lemon zest for a citrus twist

Rolling Option

¼ cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. This step creates the signature soft texture of the cookies.

Step 3: Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

Add the granulated sugar and beat until light and creamy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and pale.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. This prevents spreading and helps the cookies retain their shape.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop the dough into 1–1.5 tablespoon portions. Roll each into a smooth ball. If desired, roll each ball in sugar or powdered sugar for a crisp, sweet exterior.

Step 7: Bake

Place cookie dough balls on the baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still soft. Do not overbake—soft cookies are key.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or completely cooled—they’re delicious either way.

Notes

Softened butter and cream cheese are essential for a smooth dough—too cold and the dough becomes crumbly; too warm and cookies spread too much. Slightly underbake the cookies to maintain their soft texture. They continue to firm up as they cool.