Soft Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines sweetness with a creamy touch, Soft Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect choice. These cookies are soft, tender, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that elevates them to a new level of deliciousness. Ideal for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays, these cookies will surely be a hit among friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Soft Sugar Cookies:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Extracts: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

1. Shape the Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
2. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; this is okay as they will continue to set while cooling.
3. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top. For an added touch, consider sprinkling some colorful sprinkles or grated lemon zest on top for extra flavor and decoration.

Tips for the Perfect Sugar Cookies

• Chill the Dough: If you prefer a thicker cookie, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best texture in the cookies and frosting.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add lemon zest or almond extract to the frosting for a unique twist.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just easy to make; they are incredibly versatile. You can customize them for any holiday or occasion by simply changing the frosting color and decorations. Plus, they have a delightful texture that melts in your mouth, making them an irresistible treat.

Conclusion

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these Soft Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to please. With their tender texture and rich frosting, they’ll become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of sweetness that everyone will love!

Serving and Storage Tips for Soft Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving Suggestions

• Presentation: Arrange the frosted cookies on a decorative platter to create an inviting display. Consider garnishing with colorful sprinkles, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful touch.
• Pairing: Serve these cookies with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee. They also make a delightful accompaniment to a cup of tea during afternoon gatherings.
• Temperature: For the best flavor and texture, serve the cookies at room temperature. This allows the cream cheese frosting to remain soft and spreadable.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cookies within a couple of days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep the cookies soft and fresh.
• Refrigeration: Given the cream cheese frosting, it’s best to store the cookies in the refrigerator if you won’t eat them within two days. Place them in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost them before serving.
• Frosting Separately: If you know you’ll be storing cookies for an extended time, consider frosting only the portion you plan to eat right away. This helps maintain the texture of both the cookies and the frosting.

Tips for Maintaining Freshness

• Avoid Moisture: When storing cookies, make sure the container is completely dry. Moisture can lead to sogginess, affecting both the cookies and frosting.
• Use Parchment Paper: When stacking cookies, use parchment paper between layers to avoid them sticking together.
• Check for Freshness: Always check for any signs of spoilage, especially if the cookies have been stored for an extended period. If they develop an off smell or appearance, it’s best to discard them.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure your Soft Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting remain delicious and enjoyable for days to come!

FAQ 1: Can I make the cookie dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time! After mixing the ingredients, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, and then proceed with shaping and baking.

FAQ 2: How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much while baking?

To prevent your cookies from spreading excessively, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted when mixing. Additionally, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain the shape of the cookies. If the dough is still too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.

FAQ 3: Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting with another type of frosting?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor or texture, you can substitute the cream cheese frosting with buttercream frosting, chocolate ganache, or a simple glaze. For a healthier option, consider a whipped coconut cream or Greek yogurt frosting. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the cookies will change with different frostings.

FAQ 4: How long do the frosted cookies last?

Frosted Soft Sugar Cookies can last for about 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you store them in the refrigerator, they can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cookies, as previously mentioned, which can extend their freshness for up to three months.

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