Cream Cheese Pinch Cookies
Cream Cheese Pinch Cookies are buttery, tender treats filled with jam or Lekvar, perfect for those who enjoy rich, sweet, and creamy flavors in bite-sized delights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the sifted flour, cream cheese, and butter or margarine until well combined.
- Roll the dough into a sheet and cut into squares.
- Place a small amount of filling (Lekvar or jam) in the center of each square.
- Pinch the edges of the dough over the filling to seal it inside.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Enjoy these sweet, creamy cookies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of butter and margarine, or even all butter for added creaminess. If you don't have cream cheese, Neufchâtel cheese can be a good substitute. Rolling the dough between two sheets of parchment paper can make cutting easier and reduce sticking. For a twist, try filling the cookies with Nutella or a chocolate spread instead of jam.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Pinch Cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. For a dessert platter, pair them with slices of Grandma Lettie'S Banana Bread and a selection of fresh fruit. They also make a lovely addition to holiday cookie trays or as a sweet surprise for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their freshness without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Pinch Cookies contains roughly 202 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 12g 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 cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well. After baking and cooling, store them in an airtight container separated by parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
What kind of filling works best?
Traditional fillings like Lekvar or fruit jams work wonderfully, but you can also experiment with chocolate spreads or nut butters for a unique flavor. Just ensure the filling is not too runny to prevent sogginess.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top before baking or a drizzle of melted chocolate after they cool. You can also use seasonal jams, like cranberry or orange marmalade, for a holiday touch.
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).