Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic favorite. The addition of cream cheese results in cookies that are incredibly soft, rich, and tender, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-Soft Texture: The cream cheese adds a luxurious softness that sets these cookies apart.
• Rich Flavor: A subtle tang from the cream cheese complements the sweetness, creating a balanced flavor profile.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to impress.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice bakers.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or other mix-ins to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Sugars: Incorporate the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
7. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
8. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked.
10. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: About 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Varieties: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch.
• Flavor Twists: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or espresso powder for a unique flavor profile.
• Stuffed Cookies: Place a small piece of caramel or a chocolate truffle in the center of each dough ball before baking for a gooey surprise.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Dough: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them as if freshly baked.

FAQs

What makes these cookies different from regular chocolate chip cookies?

The addition of cream cheese results in a softer, richer texture and a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

It’s recommended to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions may alter the consistency of the cookies.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough is optional. Baking immediately yields delicious results, but chilling can enhance the flavor and prevent spreading.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.

How do I ensure my cookies are soft and chewy?

Avoid overbaking. Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are set, but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook as they cool.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Absolutely. Once cooled, place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What type of chocolate chips work best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, but you can experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips based on your preference.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Yes, feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even toffee bits to customize your cookies.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter and cream cheese are not overly soft, and consider chilling the dough if your kitchen is particularly warm.

Why did my cookies turn out cakey?

Overmixing the dough or using too much flour can lead to cakey cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and measure flour accurately.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a delightful twist on a beloved classic. Their soft, rich texture and customizable nature make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection. Enjoy the indulgent experience of these delectable cookies!

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