Who doesn’t love the combination of tangy citrus and creamy sweetness? These Lemony cheesecake cookies are a delightful treat that will brighten any day. Soft, buttery, and bursting with the zest of fresh lemons, these cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon at home or preparing a show-stopping dessert platter for guests, these cookies are guaranteed to steal the spotlight. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they’re bound to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive in and create something truly unforgettable!
Table of contents
Key Benefits of Lemon and Cream Cheese Cookies
These lemon and cream cheese cookies aren’t just another dessert; they’re a little piece of sunshine on a plate! Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The bright tang of lemon zest pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of cream cheese, creating a cookie that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
- Soft and Buttery Texture: These cookies practically melt in your mouth, thanks to the combination of cream cheese and butter in the dough.
- Easy to Make: Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are ideal for everything from afternoon tea to holiday cookie exchanges or thoughtful homemade gifts.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Their unique flavor and texture make them a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring empty plates every time!
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, these cookies check all the boxes. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you begin so everything flows smoothly once you start mixing. Having each item in reach not only saves time but also helps prevent any last-minute surprises.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened):
This is key for a tender crumb and rich flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature to blend evenly with the other ingredients. - Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened):
The star of these cookies—its tangy, creamy consistency sets them apart from standard sugar cookies. - Granulated Sugar (1 cup):
Sweetens the dough just enough to balance out the bright lemon notes. - Large Egg (1):
Brings everything together, helping the dough hold its shape and bake up light. - Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons):
Offers a cozy, familiar aroma that complements the citrus punch. - Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon):
Delivers fresh, zesty flavor in every bite. If you’re craving more brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. - All-Purpose Flour (1 3/4 cups):
Forms the structural base for your cookie dough, ensuring they bake with a soft interior. - Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon):
Gives the cookies a gentle lift, resulting in a fluffy texture. - Salt (1/4 teaspoon):
Highlights each flavor, preventing the cookies from tasting overly sweet.
Quick Tips
- Room Temperature: Ensure your butter and cream cheese aren’t cold to avoid lumpy dough.
- Flavor Boost: A few drops of lemon extract can make these tangy cookies even more irresistible.
- Add-In Ideas: White chocolate chips, poppy seeds, or chopped nuts provide extra texture and personality.
Once you’ve assembled everything, you’re well on your way to creating a batch of cookies that perfectly blend tangy lemon goodness with a soft, creamy bite.
Instructions
Now that you’ve got your ingredients lined up, let’s walk through each step to create these soft, tangy cream cheese cookies:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures you’ll have the perfect temperature ready to go once the dough is mixed.
- Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until they form a smooth, fluffy mixture. This step is key to achieving a velvety texture in your cookies.
- Add the Sugar and Egg:
- Gradually pour in the granulated sugar while continuing to mix, then crack in the egg. Blend until everything is well incorporated, ensuring there are no streaks of unmixed ingredients.
- Stir in the Flavors:
- Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. If you want a sharper citrus note, consider adding a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This extra touch amplifies the cookies’ bright, tangy flavor.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold this mixture into the wet ingredients, stopping just when the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so a light touch is best.
- Chill the Dough:
- If your dough seems a bit soft, pop it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This step makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies retain their shape while baking.
- Shape and Bake:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about two inches of space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges appear slightly golden.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies rest for a minute or two before transferring them to a cooling rack. This brief pause keeps them from falling apart. Enjoy them fresh, or store in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.
With these straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of delightfully tangy lemon and cream cheese cookies in no time. Happy baking!
Pro Tips and Variations
When it comes to creating the ultimate lemon and cream cheese cookies, small tweaks can make a big difference. Here are a few ideas to help you customize these tangy treats and ensure a foolproof baking experience:
- Chill for Consistency:
- If your kitchen is warm or the dough feels too sticky, pop it into the fridge for 15–20 minutes. This brief chill time helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring a nicely rounded shape.
- Boost the Citrus Factor:
- Love that fresh lemon flavor? Mix in a teaspoon of lemon extract or an extra tablespoon of lemon zest. A splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice can also heighten the citrus punch without making the dough runny.
- Play with Textures:
- Stir in a handful of white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the tangy cookie dough. If you’re feeling adventurous, add poppy seeds or chopped nuts to introduce a bit of crunch.
- Experiment with Filling:
- If you’re a fan of sandwich cookies, spread a thin layer of lemon curd or sweet cream cheese frosting between two cookies. This transforms your homemade cookies into a decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Plan Your Baking:
- Always set your oven to the correct temperature before you start. Using an oven thermometer can help you maintain the right heat level for these soft cookies.
- Storage Tips:
- Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container once they’ve completely cooled. This preserves their moist, tender crumb for up to a week—though they rarely last that long!
By adjusting flavors and textures, you can make this easy cookie recipe truly your own. Whether you’re seeking a citrus explosion or a sweeter finish, these variations ensure there’s a perfect option for every palate.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon and cream cheese cookies don’t just taste amazing—they look great on any dessert table, too. Here are some fun ways to serve them and elevate your cookie game:
- Tea or Coffee Break:
- Their soft texture and tangy flavor pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. Set out a cozy spread for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Dessert Platter Perfection:
- Arranging these cookies alongside fresh berries, chocolates, and a few colorful macarons can create an eye-catching dessert assortment for family gatherings or parties.
- Drizzle or Dust:
- For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top once the cookies cool. If you prefer something lighter, a light dusting of powdered sugar also works beautifully.
- Festive Gift Idea:
- Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a thoughtful thank-you gesture, package these homemade cookies in a decorative box or bag. Adding a ribbon or personalized note makes the treat even more memorable.
- Brunch or Baby Shower:
- The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing note to any brunch menu. Serve them alongside fruit salad or a yogurt parfait to keep things balanced and visually appealing.
With these serving ideas, you can easily tailor your lemon and cream cheese cookies to match the occasion. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy afternoon snack or an elegant centerpiece, these suggestions will help you showcase their irresistible tang and soft texture.
Conclusion
These lemon and cream cheese cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a testament to how simple ingredients can come together for a truly memorable baking experience. Whether you’re savoring the tangy citrus aroma fresh out of the oven or sharing these soft, chewy delights with friends and family, you’ll find that each batch delivers all the cozy comforts of homemade goodness. Plus, with the recipe’s adaptability, you can easily add your own creative twist, making it a staple that’s sure to brighten up any occasion. Enjoy!
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Lemon and Cream Cheese Cookies
Ingredients
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened):
- This is key for a tender crumb and rich flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature to blend evenly with the other ingredients.
Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened):
- The star of these cookies—its tangy creamy consistency sets them apart from standard sugar cookies.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup):
- Sweetens the dough just enough to balance out the bright lemon notes.
Large Egg (1):
- Brings everything together helping the dough hold its shape and bake up light.
Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons):
- Offers a cozy familiar aroma that complements the citrus punch.
Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon):
- Delivers fresh zesty flavor in every bite. If you’re craving more brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
All-Purpose Flour (1 3/4 cups):
- Forms the structural base for your cookie dough ensuring they bake with a soft interior.
Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon):
- Gives the cookies a gentle lift resulting in a fluffy texture.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon):
- Highlights each flavor preventing the cookies from tasting overly sweet.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures you’ll have the perfect temperature ready to go once the dough is mixed.
Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until they form a smooth, fluffy mixture. This step is key to achieving a velvety texture in your cookies.
Add the Sugar and Egg:
- Gradually pour in the granulated sugar while continuing to mix, then crack in the egg. Blend until everything is well incorporated, ensuring there are no streaks of unmixed ingredients.
Stir in the Flavors:
- Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. If you want a sharper citrus note, consider adding a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This extra touch amplifies the cookies’ bright, tangy flavor.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold this mixture into the wet ingredients, stopping just when the dough comes together. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so a light touch is best.
Chill the Dough:
- If your dough seems a bit soft, pop it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes. This step makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies retain their shape while baking.
Shape and Bake:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about two inches of space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges appear slightly golden.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies rest for a minute or two before transferring them to a cooling rack. This brief pause keeps them from falling apart. Enjoy them fresh, or store in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.
Notes
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 16g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
FAQs
1. Can I Prepare the Dough in Advance?
Absolutely. If you’d like to get a head start, mix the dough and keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, bring it to room temperature for about 10 minutes so it’s easier to scoop.
2. What’s the Best Way to Store Lemon and Cream Cheese Cookies?
Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their soft, tangy texture for around a week. If you prefer to keep them longer, freeze them in a sealed freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
3. Can I Use Alternative Flours?
All-purpose flour provides the classic chewy bite. However, if you’re experimenting with gluten-free blends or other substitutes, adjust baking time as needed and keep an eye on texture changes.
4. Do I Need Fresh Lemons for This Recipe?
Freshly zested lemons are ideal for maximum citrus flavor. If you only have bottled lemon juice, you can still proceed, but consider adding a hint of lemon extract to capture that bright, tangy punch.
5. Are There Any Good Substitutes for Cream Cheese?
Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives can work in a pinch, though the flavor and softness may vary. If the dough seems too loose, mix in an extra tablespoon of flour to help it hold its shape.
6. Why Do My Cookies Spread Too Much?
Warm dough tends to spread faster. Chilling the dough for at least 15–20 minutes helps the butter and cream cheese solidify slightly, leading to thick, beautifully shaped cookies.
7. Can I Double the Recipe?
Definitely! Doubling is a great idea if you’re baking for a larger crowd or want extra cookies to share. Just remember to space them evenly on your baking sheets, and keep an eye on the oven time in case you’re baking multiple batches back-to-back.