Cream Cheese Cookies

Yield

12 servings · Approximately 24 cookies

Cook time

10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Method

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
3. Add the granulated sugar and beat for 2–3 minutes until light and creamy.
4. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
6. Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, until firm enough to scoop.
7. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 18×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of chilled dough per cookie and arrange 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for about 10 minutes, until the cookies are set and the edges are just beginning to turn lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.
10. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
11. Once completely cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Kitchen notes

Timing guide:
Cook time: About 10 minutes per batch

Practical Woman's Secret
Keep the dough chilled between batches to prevent excessive spreading. Avoid overbaking to preserve the cookies’ signature soft, delicate centers.