These Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Vanilla Cookies are a delightful twist on classic cookies, with the addition of creamy Philadelphia cream cheese giving them a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Infused with rich vanilla flavor and studded with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family treat or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s whip up these buttery, vanilla-infused cookies and enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft & Chewy: The cream cheese adds a tender texture that makes these cookies irresistible.
- Rich Vanilla Flavor: A generous amount of vanilla extract gives these cookies their signature aroma and taste.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for endless flavor combinations.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, bake sales, or anytime you crave a sweet treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or more for extra flavor)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Mix-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, etc.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and Philadelphia cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the sugar and beat until light and creamy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- If using mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, fold them in gently with a spatula
4. Shape the Cookies
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to slightly flatten each cookie, as they won’t spread much during baking.
5. Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- For Dessert: Serve warm with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- At Gatherings: Arrange on a platter for parties, potlucks, or holiday celebrations.
- With Coffee or Tea: Pair with a hot drink for an afternoon treat.
- Meal Prep: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and cream cheese mix more easily and create a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are meant to be soft, so remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still slightly underdone.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Double the Batch: These cookies freeze beautifully—make extra and store in the freezer for future cravings.
Final Thoughts
These Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Vanilla Cookies are a buttery, chewy delight that’s simple to make yet packed with flavor. The addition of cream cheese gives them a unique softness, while the rich vanilla aroma makes them impossible to resist.
So grab your Philadelphia cream cheese, sprinkle in that vanilla, and bake up these soft, flavorful cookies. One bite of these melt-in-your-mouth treats, and you’ll feel like you’ve brought the magic of homemade baking straight to your kitchen—one sweet, vanilla-infused cookie at a time!