Cream Cheese Gems
Cream Cheese Gems are soft, chewy cookies with a rich cream cheese flavor, studded with raisins, nuts, and coconut—perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat margarine, cream cheese, vanilla, and egg yolk until smooth.
- Gradually blend in the cake mix, one-third at a time. Mix well after each addition.
- If the mixture is too thick, add about 1 tablespoon of water and mix.
- Stir in raisins, chopped nuts, and coconut until evenly distributed.
- Drop by teaspoons onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Allow cookies to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with extra raisins or coconut. Feel free to substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a different taste. Mixing in a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Gems are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with a light fruit salad, making them a perfect addition to brunch spreads or dessert tables. For a more indulgent experience, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cream Cheese Gems in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, allowing them to regain their soft texture without becoming overly dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Gems contains roughly 131 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 10g 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 use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix like chocolate or spice. Keep in mind that this will change the overall taste of the cookies, but it can lead to some delicious variations. Just ensure that the cake mix is compatible with the other ingredients.
How can I make these cookies healthier?
To make these Cream Cheese Gems healthier, consider substituting half of the cake mix with whole wheat flour or almond flour. You can also reduce the sugar by using a sugar substitute or by cutting back on the raisins, as they add natural sweetness. Incorporating more nuts can also add healthy fats and protein.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
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).