Step-by-step instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully combined and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—this will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut out your desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on the lined baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
- To prepare the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Add green food coloring until you achieve the desired shade.
- Spread the icing over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with green sugar sprinkles if using. Let the icing set before diving in!
Best ways to enjoy it
These Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies shine when served on a festive platter. Pair them with a hot cup of cocoa or a refreshing glass of milk for the full experience. You can also sprinkle some extra colored sugar on top for added flair at gatherings—perfect for birthday parties or holiday celebrations!
How to store & freeze
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you have leftovers (or simply made a large batch), these cookies freeze beautifully! Just layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between each layer, and they’ll be good for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle some flour on your work surface when rolling out.
- For an extra touch, experiment with flavored extracts—like almond or lemon—for a unique twist!
Creative twists
Want to change things up a bit? You could replace the green food coloring with different colors to match themed parties or holidays. Add in some chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for additional texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try rolling the cookies in crushed nuts or coconut flakes before baking for a fun flavor twist!
FAQ
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour for chilling, and adds around 10 minutes for baking. So just keep in mind you’ll need some downtime while the dough chills!
Can I use different types of sugar?
Absolutely! While granulated sugar is the base for this cookie, you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Just note that it may alter the texture slightly, making them chewier.
How can I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much during baking?
Chilling the dough is crucial! It firms up the butter, which helps the cookies maintain their shape as they bake. Make sure to chill for at least one hour and closely monitor their baking time.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’re well on your way to creating mouth-watering Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies that everyone will love! Happy baking!
