A absolute must-try for anyone who loves the rich, creamy taste of cheesecake but craves the convenience of a cookie. These butter cheesecake cookies are the perfect blend of buttery cookie and creamy cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s impossible to resist.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of butter and cream cheese creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s unlike any other cookie.
- Using both granulated and powdered sugar ensures the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
- Chilling the dough before baking is the secret to achieving the perfect cookie shape and consistency.
- The addition of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, making each bite more delicious than the last.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Equipment Needed
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes on medium speed. The key here is to ensure both ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
Step 2: Add Sugars and Vanilla
Gradually add the granulated and powdered sugars to the butter mixture, beating until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should look creamy and slightly increased in volume.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. For best results, you can chill the dough overnight.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their butter cheesecake cookies, consider these advanced tips. First, toasting your flour before using it can add a nutty depth to your cookies. Simply spread the flour on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for about 5 minutes. Second, experimenting with different extracts, like almond or lemon, can introduce new flavor profiles. Lastly, for a more decadent cookie, try stuffing each with a small piece of cheesecake before baking.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough before chilling.
- Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Cookies: Swirl in 1/4 cup of strawberry jam before baking for a fruity twist.
- Lemon Zest Cheesecake Cookies: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a citrusy kick.
- Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cookies: Replace 1/2 cup of butter with peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, it will significantly alter the taste and texture of your cookies. Butter provides a richness and flavor that margarine can’t match, so it’s recommended to stick with butter for the best results.
How do I store these cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance. This can actually enhance the flavor as the ingredients have more time to meld together.
Summary
These butter cheesecake cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of cheesecake and the convenience of a cookie. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
