"Philly" Sugars

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Cuisine: American

Creamy and tangy white cookies with a rich, buttery flavor, rolled in sugar and baked to perfection. Perfect for elegant treats or festive occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 8 oz. cream cheese
  • 1 cup soft butter
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cream the cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
  2. Add vanilla and flour; blend well to form a dough.
  3. Cover the bowl and chill overnight.
  4. Shape the chilled dough into small balls.
  5. Roll the balls in sugar.
  6. Flatten the balls slightly and bake for 10 to 12 minutes at 350°F.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the dough or using flavored cream cheese, such as chive or herb, for a savory twist. You can substitute half of the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. If you want a different sweetness profile, try using brown sugar instead of white for a hint of molasses flavor. Make sure to chill the dough properly to achieve the right texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful 'Philly' Sugars with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with a fruit compote or can be enjoyed alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with colorful sprinkles or powdered sugar. They make a lovely addition to a dessert platter during holiday gatherings or celebrations.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or heat in the oven for a few minutes to revive their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of "Philly" Sugars contains roughly 1367 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value).

1367 kcal 68% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 125.9g 100% DV
Carbs 22.2g 8% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 8.3g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 97.7mg 4% DV
Potassium 251.9mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 378mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 60.4mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 20.6mg 23% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 34.5mg 3% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 for this recipe?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may slightly differ from using regular cream cheese. The cookies may be less rich and a bit denser. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing, and add a touch more butter if you prefer a softer cookie.

What can I do if the dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try refrigerating it for an additional 30 minutes. This will help firm it up and make it easier to shape into balls. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a little flour on your hands while shaping the dough to prevent sticking.

Can these cookies be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can shape the balls and freeze them, then bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh cookies.

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).

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