Soft Sugar Cookies

Soft sugar cookies are the perfect blend of tender sweetness and vanilla goodness. With a delightful cream cheese base, these cookies offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is truly decadent. The subtle nutty notes from almond extract enhance the cookie’s flavor, making them perfect for any special occasion or just a cozy afternoon treat. Your kitchen will be filled with a warm, inviting aroma as these cookies bake to a pale golden perfection. Whether decorated for a festive celebration or enjoyed plain, these cookies are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.

Ingredients

3/4 cup salted butter (softened): Adds rich flavor and tenderness to the cookie.
4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Provides a soft texture and tangy taste that elevates the cookie.
1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies, balancing the flavor profile beautifully.
1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping the dough come together perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warm, sweet notes that complement the other flavors.
1 and 3/4 teaspoons almond extract: Adds a delightful hint of nutty flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall sweetness of the cookies.
3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled): The main structure of the cookies, providing the right texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it becomes soft and fluffy, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.
Add the softened cream cheese and continue to beat for another minute until well incorporated.
Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until everything is well combined.
Add the salt and flour, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Scrape the dough onto plastic wrap, cover it, and chill in the fridge for 2 hours or overnight. Alternatively, you can chill it in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 3/8 inch thick and cut with your favorite cookie cutters.
Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets and bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until they are pale and slightly golden on the bottom.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 2 hours (plus chilling time)
Cook Time: 9 to 11 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (approx.)
Servings: 24 cookies (varies by size)
Calories: Approximately 120 calories per cookie

Tips, Storage & Variations

For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the dough.
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
If you want to freeze the cookies, shape the dough into balls and freeze them before baking. When ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Experiment with different extracts, such as coconut or lemon, for a unique twist on flavor.

FAQ

Q: Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
A: Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but you may want to increase the salt amount slightly to maintain flavor balance.

Q: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: The cookies should be pale and just slightly golden on the bottom. They’ll continue baking a bit after being removed from the oven.

Q: Can I make this dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and chilled in advance, making it convenient for future baking.

Q: What should I use to decorate the cookies?
A: You can use icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain for a more classic taste.

Q: How should I store any leftover cookies?
A: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, refrigerate them.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled if you are making cookies for a large gathering.

Conclusion

These soft sugar cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table or just as a sweet treat to brighten your day. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or iced for a special occasion, they promise to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Try this recipe, share your results, and bring a little sweetness into your world!

Soft Sugar Cookies

Print Recipe

Soft sugar cookies blend tender sweetness and vanilla goodness with a cream cheese base for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Author: amanda-lewis
Prep Time: 120 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 131 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

3/4 cup salted butter (softened)
4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 and 3/4 teaspoons almond extract
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)

Instructions

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it becomes soft and fluffy, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.
Add the softened cream cheese and continue to beat for another minute until well incorporated.
Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until everything is well combined.
Add the salt and flour, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Scrape the dough onto plastic wrap, cover it, and chill in the fridge for 2 hours or overnight. Alternatively, you can chill it in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 3/8 inch thick and cut with your favorite cookie cutters.
Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets and bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until they are pale and slightly golden on the bottom.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the dough. The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.