Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies-Soft, Tangy, and Irresistibly Sweet—A Bakery-Style Treat You Can Make at Home

Introduction

These Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are the kind of treat that makes you pause mid-bite and say, “Wait…what’s in these?” The secret? Cream cheese. It adds a subtle tang and pillowy softness that takes the humble sugar cookie to a whole new level.

Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or cozy afternoons with tea, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to love. They hold their shape beautifully, making them ideal for decorating—or enjoying plain with a cold glass of milk.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
3¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Base
In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing just until a dough forms.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop dough into small balls. Place on baking sheets and gently flatten with a fork or glass bottom.

Step 6: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Time & Yield

Prep Time Bake Time Total Time Yield Calories per Cookie
15 mins 12 mins 27 mins ~36 cookies ~120 kcal

Tips & Tricks

Chill the dough for 30–60 minutes if you want thicker cookies that spread less.
Add almond extract (½ tsp) for a bakery-style flavor boost.
Roll in sugar or sprinkles before baking for sparkle and crunch.
Use cookie cutters for festive shapes—this dough holds up well!

Serving Ideas

Pair with hot cocoa or chai for a cozy treat.
Sandwich two cookies with frosting or jam for a sweet twist.
Decorate with icing and edible glitter for special occasions.

Variations

Lemon Zest: Add 1 tsp for a citrusy lift.
Chocolate Chip: Stir in mini chips for a creamy-chocolate combo.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Frosted: Top with cream cheese or vanilla frosting and sprinkles.

Storage

Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months—thaw at room temp before serving.

Final Thoughts

These cookies are soft, sweet, and subtly tangy—like a hug in dessert form. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or just treating yourself, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite.