Are you looking for a delightful treat that combines the richness of cream cheese with the classic sweetness of sugar cookies? Look no further! Cream cheese sugar cookies recipes are a fantastic way to add a unique twist to a timeless favorite. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family gathering to a festive holiday celebration. In this article, we will explore some delicious cream cheese sugar cookies recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
One of the most popular cream cheese sugar cookies recipes starts with a simple, buttery dough. Begin by creaming together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, and mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Once the dough is ready, add 1/4 cup of cream cheese, softened, and mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until it is firm enough to roll out. After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use cookie cutters of your choice to cut out the desired shapes, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a dollop of cream cheese frosting to the top of each cookie. To make the frosting, simply beat together 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the frosting on top of the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.
Another delightful variation on cream cheese sugar cookies involves adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to the top of the cookies before baking. This creates a delightful contrast between the sweet sugar cookie and the slightly spicy cinnamon flavor. Simply mix together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and sprinkle it over the cookie dough before baking.
For those who prefer a more indulgent treat, consider adding a layer of jam or fruit between two cream cheese sugar cookies. This creates a delicious sandwich cookie that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Simply spread a thin layer of your favorite jam or fruit preserves on one cookie, place another cookie on top, and press down gently to form a sandwich.
With so many variations and possibilities, cream cheese sugar cookies recipes are a versatile and delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you choose to keep it simple or add a touch of elegance with cream cheese frosting or a sandwich filling, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead and experiment with these recipes, and enjoy the delicious results!
