Ever wondered what secret ingredient could make your chocolate chip cookies even better? It’s cream cheese. This surprise addition turns simple cookies into something truly special. They become a treat you can’t resist.
Chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are a twist on a favorite. They mix cream cheese with the dough for a rich, tender cookie. The cream cheese adds a tangy taste and a soft, velvety texture that’s just right.
With just 27 minutes of prep and baking, you can make 22 delicious cookies. They have a golden-brown look and a perfect texture. The recipe uses 2 cups of flour, ½ cup of butter, and ¼ cup of cream cheese for a treat that’s both tasty and indulgent.
These chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are perfect for any baker. They’re great for sharing or enjoying all by yourself. Let’s explore how to make these amazing chocolate chip desserts that everyone will love.
Key Takeaways
- Cream cheese adds richness and tenderness to chocolate chip cookies
- The recipe yields 22 cookies in just 27 minutes
- Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 9-12 minutes for perfect results
- Each cookie contains 148 calories and 7g of fat
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months
Why Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies Are Special
Chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are a unique twist on classic soft cookies. They have a special texture and flavor thanks to the cream cheese. This makes them stand out from other recipes.
Unique Texture and Taste Profile
When you eat a chocolate chip cream cheese cookie, it’s softer and chewier. The dough makes the cookies tender, so they melt in your mouth. The cream cheese adds a tangy taste that balances the sweetness of the chocolate chips.
Benefits of Adding Cream Cheese
Adding cream cheese to your dough has many benefits. It keeps the cookies moist for longer. It also makes the cookies thicker and more robust, helping them keep their shape while baking. This is key for getting the perfect mix of crisp edges and a soft center.
Professional Baker’s Secret Ingredient
Many professional bakers use cream cheese to make their cookies special. It adds richness and texture to the cookies. This simple change turns a regular chocolate chip cookie into a gourmet treat.
| Ingredient | Amount | % of Total Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz (226g) | 22% |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 1/2 cups (300g) | 29% |
| Chocolate Chips | 1 1/2 cups (255g) | 25% |
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cookies
To make the ultimate chocolate chip cream cheese cookies, you need to pick the right ingredients. Each one is important for the perfect mix of texture and taste. This is key for a great holiday cookie baking experience.
Core Dairy Components
The heart of these treats is in the high-quality dairy. Use unsalted European butter for its rich flavor. Full-fat cream cheese adds a tangy taste and a chewy texture. This makes every bite a delight.
Dry Ingredients Selection
All-purpose flour is the base for the dry ingredients. Cornstarch makes them extra soft. Baking soda helps them rise, and a pinch of salt brings out all the flavors.
Packed light brown sugar and granulated sugar add sweetness. They also help the cookies hold their shape.
Chocolate Choices and Mix-ins
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are the go-to, but try dark or milk chocolate for something different. Adding a quarter teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg can give them an extra kick. These mix-ins can turn your cookies into gourmet.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup | Richness and structure |
| Cream Cheese | 2 ounces | Tangy flavor and chewiness |
| Light Brown Sugar | 3/4 cup (packed) | Sweetness and moisture |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup | Sweetness and crispiness |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 1/4 cups | Structure and texture |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make delicious cream cheese cookies, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment is key. It makes the cookies creamy. If you don’t have a stand mixer, a hand mixer will do, but it might be harder.
You’ll need cups and spoons for measuring. It’s important to measure accurately for soft batch cookies. Use baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. A #30 ice cream scoop helps make cookies the same size for even baking.
A cooling rack is essential for the right texture. If you want to get fancy, use a silicone baking mat instead of parchment paper. It’s reusable and makes baking even better.
| Essential Tools | Optional but Helpful |
|---|---|
| Stand mixer with paddle attachment | Silicone baking mat |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Cookie scoop |
| Baking sheets | Oven thermometer |
| Parchment paper | Kitchen scale |
| Cooling rack | Spatula |
With these tools, you’re ready to make amazing chocolate chip cream cheese cookies. They’re so good, everyone will want more!
Step-by-Step Mixing Process
Mastering the mixing process is key to creating perfect chocolate chip cream cheese cookies. This technique ensures a delightful texture in your dessert recipes. Let’s dive into the steps for making these irresistible cookie bars.
Creaming Method Technique
Start by creaming butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add sugars, egg, and vanilla to your mixture. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, resulting in tender cookies.
Proper Ingredient Temperature
For best results, use room temperature ingredients. Softened butter and cream cheese blend more easily, creating a smoother dough. Cold ingredients can lead to lumpy batter, affecting the final texture of your baking recipes.
Dough Consistency Tips
Reduce the mixer speed to low when adding dry ingredients. Slowly incorporate the flour mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can result in tough cookies. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
| Ingredient | Amount | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 10 tablespoons | Room temperature |
| Cream Cheese | 6 oz | Softened |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/2 cup | Room temperature |
| Light Brown Sugar | 1 cup | Room temperature |
Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to baking delicious chocolate chip cream cheese cookies. Remember, practice makes perfect in the world of cookie bars and dessert recipes!
Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
Impress your friends at the next cookie swap with these chocolate chip cream cheese cookies. They’re perfect for Christmas or any sweet craving. This recipe makes 24 cookies that everyone will love.
Base Recipe Measurements
Here’s what you need for these tasty cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups (290g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (6g) baking soda
- 1 tsp (6g) fine table salt
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup (75g) cream cheese
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp (8g) vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (112g)
- 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Mixing Instructions
First, mix the butter, cream cheese, and sugars for 1-2 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla, then mix in dry ingredients. Finally, fold in chocolate chips. Chill the dough for at least 3 hours or up to 3 days for the best results.
Baking Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make 30g balls of dough and place them 3 inches apart on a baking sheet. Bake for 11-12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned. Let them cool for a few minutes before moving them to a rack. Enjoy your homemade Christmas cookies!
Each cookie has 141 calories, 7g of fat, and 18g of carbs. Store them at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. They’re perfect for holiday baking!
Expert Baking Tips and Techniques
Making the best cream cheese cookies with chocolate chips needs focus. Professional bakers share their tips to improve your baking. Melissa Weller, a famous pastry chef, bakes many cookies before the holidays. This shows the value of practice and planning.
For even cookies, use a kitchen scale and portion scoop. This method ensures all cookies are the same size and texture. If your dough is gluten-free, let it rest for 30 minutes before scooping. This helps with texture.
For cookies that are both tender and flaky, mix equal parts butter and cream cheese. Leah Koenig suggests this. It makes the cookies feel like croissants, which go great with chocolate chips.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups (319g) | Structure |
| Cream cheese | ¼ cup (57g) | Moisture and texture |
| Dark brown sugar | ⅔ cup (115g) | Moisture and caramel flavor |
| Bittersweet chocolate | 1 ½ cups (255g) | Rich flavor |
To make the best chocolate chip cream cheese cookies, bake at 325°F (165°C) in a convection oven or 350°F (180°C) in a regular oven. Place cookies 2 inches apart and bake for 11 minutes. They should be lightly browned on the bottom but still pale on top, keeping them soft inside.
Storage and Freshness Guidelines
Keeping your chocolate chip cream cheese cookies fresh is key. Proper storage ensures they stay delicious for days or even months.
Room Temperature Storage
For short-term enjoyment, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick dessert cravings.
To keep soft cookies moist, add a slice of white bread to the container.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing extends the life of your cookies. Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container. Separate layers with parchment paper.
Frozen cookies last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
Shelf Life Information
The shelf life of your cookies varies based on storage method:
- Room temperature: 3 days to 1 week
- Refrigerated: Up to 2 weeks
- Frozen: Up to 3 months
For the best taste and texture, eat your cookies within the first few days of baking. Remember, cookies with cream cheese should be refrigerated if not eaten within a day to prevent spoilage.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
Get creative with your cookies with cream cheese. These chewy treats are perfect for making your own unique version. You can try out exciting variations.
Mix-in Options
Add delicious mix-ins to your homemade cookies. Oats give a hearty texture, while different chip flavors like peanut butter or butterscotch add excitement. For a fun twist, try M&M’s or chopped candy bars. Just remember, keep your mix-ins to 2 1/4 cups or less to keep the cookie’s shape.
Dietary Modifications
Make the recipe fit your dietary needs. For gluten-free cookies, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. To cut down on sugar, use a sugar substitute or reduce the sugar amount. For vegan cookies, swap butter and cream cheese with plant-based options.
Flavor Enhancements
Add unique flavors to your cookies. Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy taste. Vanilla or almond extract adds depth. Try pumpkin spice in fall or peppermint extract during the holidays for seasonal flavors.
| Variation | Ingredients | Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Classic | 1 cup semi-sweet, 1/2 cup bittersweet chips | 11-12 minutes |
| Oatmeal Raisin | 1 cup oats, 1/2 cup raisins | 12-13 minutes |
| Triple Chocolate | 1/2 cup each: dark, milk, white chips | 10-11 minutes |
| Nutty Delight | 1 cup mixed nuts, 1/2 cup chocolate chips | 11-12 minutes |
These chewy cookies are very versatile. Try different combinations to find your favorite flavor. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try something new, these homemade treats will surely impress.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Your chocolate chip cream cheese cookies deserve a great presentation. For casual gatherings, serve them on a rustic wooden platter. At elegant dinner parties, arrange them on a tiered cake stand for a touch of sophistication. These cream cheese cookie recipes shine as standalone treats or as part of more elaborate chocolate chip desserts.
Pair your cookies with different beverages to enhance their flavors. A cold glass of milk is a classic choice, while a hot cup of coffee brings out the richness of the chocolate chips. For an adult twist, try a dessert wine that complements the creamy notes of the cookies.
Get creative with your chocolate chip cream cheese cookies. Use them as a base for ice cream sandwiches or crush them to make a flavorful crust for cheesecakes. You can even crumble them over a bowl of vanilla ice cream for a quick and delicious treat.
| Pairing | Description |
|---|---|
| Milk | Classic choice, enhances chocolate flavor |
| Coffee | Brings out richness of cookies |
| Dessert Wine | Complements creamy notes for adult palates |
| Ice Cream | Creates delicious cookie sandwiches |
For a decadent twist, dip half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt. This elevates your cream cheese cookie recipes to gourmet status, perfect for gifting or special occasions. Remember, these versatile treats can be enjoyed in countless ways, so don’t hesitate to experiment with your own serving ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions
Baking with cream cheese can be tricky, but these FAQs will help you master soft cookie recipes. Let’s dive into common questions about cream cheese cookie dough and more.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling your cream cheese cookie dough for about an hour can make cookies thicker and chewier. It also lets flavors blend better, making them taste richer. If you’re in a hurry, a 15-minute chill can still help with texture.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies freeze well for up to 2 months. Just store them in an airtight container, with parchment paper between layers.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
These soft cookies stay fresh for:
- Room temperature: Up to 3 days
- Refrigerated: Up to 5 days
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding ½ cup of your favorite chopped nuts gives extra crunch and flavor. Walnuts or pecans pair well with the cream cheese base.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2¼ cups |
| Cream cheese | 4 ounces |
| Butter | 8 tablespoons |
| Chocolate chunks | 2 cups |
| Chocolate chips | ½ cup |
Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes for perfect cookies. Let them cool on the sheet for 1-2 minutes before cooling completely. Happy baking!
Conclusion
Chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are a fun twist on a classic. They have a unique texture and a rich flavor. These cookies are great for holiday baking or just to satisfy a sweet tooth.
They’re easy to make, with 24 cookies ready in 30 minutes. Each cookie has 200 calories of deliciousness. You can also add nuts or cinnamon to make them even better. They’re perfect for any occasion or just for yourself.
It’s important to store them right to keep them fresh. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Or, freeze the dough for up to 3 months. So, preheat your oven to 350°F and enjoy baking these amazing cookies.
F.A.Q
Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat in this recipe?
You can use low-fat cream cheese, but full-fat is better. It makes the cookies softer and richer. Full-fat cream cheese adds more moisture and flavor.
How long should I chill the dough before baking?
Chill the dough for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight. This lets the flavors mix well. It also makes the cookies thicker and chewier.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Shape it into balls and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake them frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are golden and the centers are set but still soft. They might look underbaked, but they’ll set as they cool. It’s better to slightly underbake for a chewy texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free cookies by using a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure all ingredients, including cream cheese and chocolate chips, are gluten-free.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use other types of chocolate instead of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Try chopped chocolate bars, chocolate chunks, or a mix of chocolates. Mixing milk, dark, and white chocolate adds complexity. Just keep the total chocolate amount the same.
How can I make my cookies softer or crispier?
For softer cookies, underbake them and store with a slice of bread to keep moist. For crispier cookies, bake a bit longer and cool completely before storing.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?
Yes, you can add mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or crushed candy. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can change the texture and baking time.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent spreading, use cold butter, chill the dough, and bake on parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure your oven is preheated well. If issues persist, add a bit more flour to the dough.
