Whenever I want a cookie that’s soft, rich, and feels extra special, I bake Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies. The cream cheese makes these cookies incredibly tender with a smooth, buttery flavor. They’re simple, classic, and perfect for holidays, celebrations, or anytime I want a comforting homemade treat.
Quick Facts
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Serving Size: 24 cookies
Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
These cookies are soft without being cakey and sweet without being overpowering. The cream cheese adds a slight tang and keeps the cookies moist for days. I love how easy the dough is to work with and how the cookies hold their shape while baking. They’re perfect plain or decorated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup sugar
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1 egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
How I Make My Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Make the Dough
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Cream together cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
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Beat in the egg and vanilla.
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Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
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Scoop small portions of dough and roll into balls.
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Place on a lined baking sheet.
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Lightly flatten with a glass or your fingers.
Step 3: Bake
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Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
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The edges should be set, but the centers stay soft.
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Let cool before serving.
Soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet!
Serving Suggestions
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Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
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Frost with vanilla or cream cheese icing.
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Decorate with sprinkles for holidays.
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Serve with coffee, tea, or milk.
Tips for Customization
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Add citrus: Mix in lemon or orange zest.
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Flavor boost: Try almond extract instead of vanilla.
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Holiday version: Add food coloring or festive sprinkles.
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Chilled dough: Chill for firmer cookies if needed.
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Sandwich cookies: Add frosting between two cookies.
Nutritional Info (Approx. per cookie)
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Calories: 110–130
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Carbs: 14–16g
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Fat: 6–8g
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Protein: 2g
FAQs
1. Do I need to chill the dough?
Not required, but chilling helps if the dough feels soft.
2. Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Butter may be too warm — chill the dough briefly.
3. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze dough balls for up to 2 months.
Final Bite
These Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are soft, rich, and incredibly comforting. They’re easy to make, beautifully tender, and perfect for sharing. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become your go-to sugar cookie recipe.
