Cream Cheese Shortbread Cookies
Cream Cheese Shortbread Cookies are rich, buttery treats with a hint of vanilla and a smooth cream cheese flavor, perfect for elegant gatherings or delightful tea times.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter, cream cheese, and sugar together until smooth.
- Add vanilla and flour; mix until well combined.
- Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut into favorite shapes and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Decorate with icing made from powdered sugar mixed with a small amount of milk.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter and let it soften to room temperature before mixing. If you want a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the butter with coconut oil. For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These cream cheese shortbread cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a drizzle of icing or sprinkles for a festive touch. Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a relaxing afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Cheesy-Artichoke Dip for a savory-sweet snack spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. When ready to bake, simply slice and bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Shortbread Cookies contains roughly 323 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 31g 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 low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies less rich. Ensure that it is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. The flavor will still be delicious, but they might not be as creamy as those made with regular cream cheese.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough feels too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will help firm it up and make it easier to roll out. If you’re still having trouble, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and rolling pin to help with the rolling process.
How can I make these cookies more festive for holidays?
To add a festive touch, consider incorporating holiday-themed cookie cutters for shapes. You can also mix in colorful sprinkles or use a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk to decorate the tops. Adding a hint of peppermint or orange zest to the dough can give them a seasonal flavor.
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).