As I stood by my kitchen window, the warm aroma of baking cookies wafted in from the oven, instantly transporting me back to my grandmother’s cozy home. That familiar comfort is exactly what these Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies deliver—an irresistible combination of softness and rich flavor. With the addition of cream cheese, these treats redefine your usual chocolate chip cookies, offering a delightful spin that's perfect for any occasion. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they also freeze beautifully, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or festive gatherings. The only question is, will you be able to resist stealing a few warm from the baking sheet?
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Irresistible Texture: The addition of cream cheese elevates these cookies, creating a soft, tender bite that melts in your mouth.
Easy to Make: Anyone can whip these up with basic baking skills, making it a perfect recipe for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Versatile Flavors: Feel free to customize with different chocolate types or add in nuts and dried fruits for a unique twist, just like our Oatmeal Cookies Chewy.
Make-Ahead Magic: These cookies freeze beautifully, so you can easily prepare them ahead of time for holidays or unexpected guests.
Crowd Appeal: Serve them warm with a glass of milk or coffee, and watch everyone smile! These Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to become a favorite!
Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake a delightful batch!
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For the Cookie Dough
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Unsalted Butter – Adds rich, buttery flavor; best at room temperature for easy creaming.
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Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Enhances texture and contributes to softness; use block form for best results.
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Brown Sugar – Provides chewiness and moisture; choose packed for optimal sweetness.
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Granulated Sugar – Adds a crispness to the cookie.
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Egg – Binds ingredients and provides structure.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor and aroma.
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All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the dough; avoid excess to prevent dryness.
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Cornstarch – Ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture; keeps cookies soft.
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Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light crumb.
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Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
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For the Chocolate Chips
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Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – A classic choice for sweetness and melting pockets; feel free to substitute with other types as desired.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Dough
Begin by creaming together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 8 ounces of full-fat cream cheese in a large mixing bowl using a hand mixer. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add in 1 cup of packed brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar, mixing until fluffy. Then, incorporate 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, blending until well combined.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination of dry ingredients will give your Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies the perfect texture. Ensure there are no lumps, and set this bowl aside, ready for the next step.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Carefully add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in your large bowl. Mix on low speed, just until no dry flour remains visible—overmixing can lead to dense cookies. The dough should be sticky and soft, signaling it’s ready for the rich chocolate chips that will be folded in next.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula. Ensure that the chips are evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking them. This step adds those delightful melty pockets of chocolate you’re craving in your Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies, enhancing their irresistible taste.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover your dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This chilling process helps the flavors to meld and intensifies the cookie's texture, resulting in thicker, softer cookies. Planning ahead will elevate your baking results significantly.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled dough onto the sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking for maximum softness.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once you take the cookies out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period is essential, as it enhances the texture and flavor of your freshly baked Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies, making them all the more irresistible.
Expert Tips for Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Use Full-Fat Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese; low-fat options can result in drier cookies lacking that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature for the smoothest mixing.
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Chill for Best Results: Although you can bake immediately, chilling the dough at least 2 hours ensures thicker cookies and a depth of flavor that’s worth the wait!
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake; you'll want to underbake them slightly for a soft center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
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Easy Customizations: Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips for your favorite types or add nuts and dried fruits for a personal touch in your Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days; this keeps them soft and fresh.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep cookies in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 7 days. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze either the baked cookies or the dough for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie individually, or form dough balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave for 10-15 seconds. For frozen dough, bake straight from the freezer, but add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfect Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and then covering it tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring it's well chilled in the refrigerator to maintain its softness and flavor. Alternatively, you can scoop the cookie dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze them solid, and then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, adjusting the baking time slightly (about 1-2 minutes longer), and enjoy fresh, delicious cookies with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Imagine the joy of pairing these soft, rich cookies with delightful companions that enhance their sweetness and texture.
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A Glass of Cold Milk: Creamy and cold, it perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee beautifully contrast the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy afternoon treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies over a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that dreams are made of.
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Fresh Strawberries: Juicy, ripe strawberries add a refreshing touch, balancing the rich taste of the cookies with a hint of acidity.
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: Dip half of each cookie in silky ganache for an indulgent twist, amplifying that chocolate experience.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides a crunchy texture, enhancing the soft and chewy nature of the cookies.
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Hot Chocolate: For cozy evenings, a warm cup of hot chocolate becomes the ultimate companion, merging chocolate flavors in a soothing way.
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Cheesecake Bars: Keep the sweetness theme flowing with rich cheesecake bars on the side for a delightful dessert duo.
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Spiced Chai Latte: Fragrant spices in chai complement the rich flavors of the cookies while adding warmth to every bite.
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Dried Fruits: Consider pairing with dried cranberries or apricots for a sweet-tart contrast that brightens the cookie experience.
Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore the delightful world of customizations and twists for your Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies that will tickle your taste buds!
- Chocolate Types: Swap semi-sweet chips for dark, milk, or white chocolate to create a unique flavor experience.
- Nut Additions: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Dried Fruits: Toss in dried cherries or cranberries to introduce a fruity zing in each bite.
- Spice Enhancement: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the flavor profile, perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Festive Touch: Sprinkle in colorful sprinkles or crushed candies to celebrate holidays or special occasions. These cheerful additions will bring a smile to your face!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy warm cookies.
- Sugar-Free Alternative: Use sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia for a low-calorie treat without sacrificing sweetness. Perfect for those mindful of their sugar intake!
- Caramel Swirl: Fold in chunks of caramel or drizzle caramel sauce over the dough for a gooey, decadent twist reminiscent of caramel-filled desserts.
Don’t hesitate to get creative! Just like our Chocolate Cupcake Decadent or Pineapple Cookies Tropical, the possibilities are endless. Make these cookies your own and share them with loved ones!
Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best cream cheese to use for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. The low-fat options may result in drier cookies, lacking that delightful richness that makes the Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies so special. Look for block cream cheese rather than the spreadable type for optimal results.
How should I store my Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, which keeps them soft and delicious! If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 7 days. Just allow them to come back to room temperature before indulging in their gooey goodness!
Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze either the baked cookies or the dough! For baked cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. If you prefer to freeze the dough, scoop tablespoon-sized balls, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, and then transfer to a bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough feels excessively sticky, it's likely due to a bit of extra moisture. You can add a tablespoon of flour at a time, mixing gently until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. However, ensure you don’t overmix, as it can lead to denser cookies. If you’ve chilled your dough already, you may find it easier to handle!
Can I customize these cookies if I have dietary restrictions?
Very much so! If you have allergies to certain ingredients, you can substitute with alternatives. For instance, use gluten-free flour to keep it gluten-free, or replace sugars with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. You can also choose dairy-free cream cheese and chocolate chips for a dairy-free version. Just remember to keep the ratios similar for the best results!
How can I tell when my Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are done baking?
Watch them closely! Your cookies are done when the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. They should not be overly browned. You can trust that they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. This slight underbaking technique is key to achieving that perfectly soft, chewy texture you desire!
Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies - Soft and Irresistible Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by creaming together unsalted butter and full-fat cream cheese in a large mixing bowl using a hand mixer. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add in brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing until fluffy. Then, incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, blending until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients will give the perfect texture.
- Carefully add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed, just until no dry flour remains visible.
- Gently fold in chocolate chips using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Cover your dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can wait.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the chilled dough onto the sheets.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.
- Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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