Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until creamy and well combined.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Blend Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure soft cookies.
Scoop and Decorate
Scoop the dough into balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and roll them in your favorite sprinkles or press them with a fork to create a pattern. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, serve the cookies alongside a tall glass of milk or a cup of coffee. They’re also perfect for packing in lunch boxes or gifting in treat bags.
What to Serve Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies With
Milk: Chocolate or whole milk is a classic pairing for cookies.
Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a warm beverage alongside these sweet treats.
Fresh Fruit: A bowl of sliced strawberries or grapes adds a refreshing contrast.
Ice Cream: Dip the cookies in a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
Perfect Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened but not melted for the best texture.
Handle Gently: Be gentle when mixing to avoid tough cookies.
Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with colorful sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For soft, chewy cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For a crispy texture, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a testament to the joy of baking and sharing. With their creamy texture, tangy flavor, and endless customization possibilities, they’re the perfect recipe for anyone who loves sweets.
So, why not give them a try? Gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to create a batch of cookies that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Happy baking!