If you’re on the lookout for a truly delightful treat that’s perfect for every season and celebration, you’ve just found it in this Creamy Cut Out Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies for Joyful Sharing Recipe. These cookies bring together the rich tang of cream cheese, the buttery softness of classic sugar cookies, and a hint of warm nutmeg that makes every bite memorable. Whether you’re baking for family fun, holiday joy, or just a cozy afternoon indulgence, these cut out cookies invite creativity and warmth in every shape and sprinkle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by baking; this recipe shines because of its simple, yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one has a special role to play, from providing that creamy texture to delivering a balanced sweetness and a subtle hint of spice that makes these cookies irresistibly charming.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie dough, ensuring the perfect structure for cut outs.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a cozy, aromatic warmth that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese.
- 1 cup butter (softened): Provides richness and helps keep the cookies tender.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): The secret ingredient that makes these cookies incredibly moist and creamy.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Infuses a familiar sweet fragrance that complements every bite.
- 1/2 tsp pure almond extract: Adds a subtle, nutty twist that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 large egg yolks: For richness and aiding a tender crumb texture.
- Frosting (optional, for decorating): A fun way to personalize your cookies with color and flair.
- Sprinkles and seasonal nonpareils (for decorating): Add sparkle and festive cheer to your creations.
How to Make Creamy Cut Out Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies for Joyful Sharing Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by sifting together the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground nutmeg in a medium bowl. This sets the stage by distributing the nutmeg evenly and ensuring you won’t get any unwanted clumps in your dough.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
Take your softened butter and cream cheese and beat them together with vanilla and almond extracts until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air, resulting in that tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Sugar Gradually
Pour in the granulated sugar slowly while continuing to beat the mixture. Doing this gradually helps the sugar dissolve and blends the flavors seamlessly for a luscious dough.
Step 4: Incorporate Egg Yolks
Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each. This enriches the dough and adds depth to the flavor and crumb of your cookies.
Step 5: Mix in the Flour Mixture
Slowly blend in the dry ingredients on a low speed, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your dough perfectly soft without developing too much gluten, which could toughen the cookies.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Split the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 2 hours. Chilling is essential as it firms up the dough, making it easier to roll and cut shaped cookies that keep their edges beautifully.
Step 7: Prepare to Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
Step 8: Roll and Cut Shapes
On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about one-third of an inch thick. Use your favorite floured cookie cutters to create shapes that bring you joy — from classic stars to whimsical holiday figures.
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the cut shapes onto your cookie sheets, spacing them about 1½ inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a delicate golden brown. This is where those warm nutmeg notes bloom alongside the creamy undertones.
Step 10: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before adding frosting and sprinkles. This final touch lets you channel your creativity and make cookies that are perfect for sharing smiles and sweetness.
How to Serve Creamy Cut Out Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies for Joyful Sharing Recipe
Garnishes
Frosting your cookies gives you endless options: smooth royal icing, rich buttercream, or even a glaze dusted with edible glitter. Decorating with seasonal nonpareils or colorful sprinkles adds festive spark and texture, making each cookie uniquely inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cozy cup of hot cocoa, a spiced chai latte, or a cold glass of milk. These combinations perfectly complement the creamy, buttery notes and elevate your sharing experience to something truly memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your decorated cookies on a charming wooden board or festive platter sprinkled with edible flower petals or powdered sugar. You can also gift-wrap a stack tied with ribbon for thoughtful, homemade presents bound to delight friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled cookies in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to a week, ready for you to enjoy whenever the mood for sweet comfort strikes.
Freezing
These cookies freeze brilliantly. Simply wrap dough discs tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. You can also freeze baked cookies between layers of parchment paper for several weeks.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked feeling, warm the cookies in a low oven (around 300°F) for 3 to 5 minutes. This softens them gently without drying them out, perfect for a quick treat.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese that is not softened?
Softened cream cheese is essential in this recipe to properly cream with the butter and achieve that light, fluffy dough. Using cold cream cheese may result in lumps and a tougher dough.
What is the purpose of nutmeg in this recipe?
The nutmeg adds a delicate spice that enhances the cookie’s flavor complexity, balancing the sweetness and providing a warm, comforting aroma.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll and cut. It also prevents excessive spreading during baking, helping the cookies maintain sharp, clean edges.
Can I skip the almond extract?
While almond extract is optional, it adds a subtle nutty undertone that sets these cookies apart. If you omit it, consider increasing the vanilla extract slightly.
How do I decorate these cookies without frosting?
For a simple yet festive touch, sprinkle colored sugar or edible glitter on the dough just before baking. This gives sparkle without any extra steps.
Final Thoughts
These Creamy Cut Out Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies for Joyful Sharing Recipe invites you to bake with heart and creativity, bringing warmth and joy to all who taste them. From the tender, creamy dough to the endless decorating possibilities, this recipe is a treasure that makes sharing sweet moments even sweeter. I hope you dive in and discover the magic of these cookies in your own kitchen soon!
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Creamy Cut Out Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies for Joyful Sharing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these creamy cut-out cream cheese sugar cookies, perfect for joyful sharing and festive decorating. Featuring a tender, buttery dough enriched with cream cheese and subtle almond and vanilla flavors, these cookies offer a delicate texture and classic sweetness that’s perfect for shaping and adorning with frosting and sprinkles.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp pure almond extract
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
Decoration
- Frosting (optional, for decorating)
- Sprinkles and seasonal nonpareils (for decorating)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp ground nutmeg to evenly combine and aerate the dry ingredients.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter and 4 oz softened cream cheese along with 2 tsp pure vanilla extract and ½ tsp pure almond extract for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add 1½ cups granulated sugar to the cream mixture, beating for another 2 minutes until fully integrated and creamy to ensure sweetness is well distributed.
- Incorporate Egg Yolks: Add 2 large egg yolks one at a time, beating each for about 2 minutes until the batter is light yellow and fluffy, which helps with texture and richness.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the sifted flour mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, preserving tenderness.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours to firm up the dough for easier rolling and cutting.
- Prepare Oven and Cookie Sheets: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Roll and Cut Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about â…“-inch thickness. Use floured cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes for your cookies.
- Arrange and Bake Cookies: Transfer cut cookies carefully onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about 1½ inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool and Decorate: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting and decorating with sprinkles and seasonal nonpareils to add festive flair.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature to help achieve a smooth, creamy batter.
- Chilling the dough is crucial for easier rolling and sharper cookie shapes.
- Do not overmix once the flour is added to keep the cookies tender and prevent toughness.
- For best results, use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to avoid cookie sticking and minimize cleanup.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
