Cream Cheese Danties
Creamy, sweet, and crunchy cookies with a hint of almond flavor, topped with cherries, perfect for festive occasions or as delightful treats for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the butter, cream cheese, sugar, and almond extract until fluffy.
- Stir in the flour just enough until combined. Chill the mixture for 1 to 2 hours.
- Shape the chilled dough into balls. Roll each ball in the crushed rice cereal.
- Place the coated balls on an ungreased cookie sheet and top each with a candied cherry.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on a rack before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before creaming. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute. You can also try adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. If you prefer a different coating, crushed nuts or coconut flakes can create a delicious variation. These danties can also be rolled in powdered sugar after baking for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Danties are delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee as a sweet afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Spinach And Mashed Potatoes for a unique dessert option after a hearty meal. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cream Cheese Danties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Danties contains roughly 20 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these danties?
Yes, you can freeze Cream Cheese Danties! Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag once frozen. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can work well. Greek yogurt can also provide a tangy flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly. Experimenting with these substitutes can lead to interesting flavor profiles while still maintaining the essence of the danties.
How do I know when the danties are done baking?
The danties are done when they are lightly golden at the edges and slightly firm to the touch. The baking time may vary based on your oven, so start checking around the 12-minute mark. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool on the rack, so don’t let them brown too much in the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).