Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the rich creaminess of cream cheese. These cookies are soft, chewy, and have a burst of flavor that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just looking for a sweet snack, these cookies will surely impress.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make these Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare with simple ingredients found in most kitchens. Second, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart, providing a refreshing taste that is perfect for any season. Lastly, they are great for sharing with friends and family, making them an excellent choice for parties or potlucks.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup lemon juice
Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is combined.
For the filling, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Then, add the egg yolks and lemon juice and mix until well blended.
Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls and place half of them on the prepared baking sheets.
Create a small well in each ball of dough and spoon in the cream cheese filling.
Top each filled well with another dough ball, sealing the edges to ensure the filling stays inside.
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Finally, dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly warm or at room temperature after they have cooled down. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a wonderful dessert for gatherings, showing off their delicious lemon filling and sweet powdered sugar topping.

How to Store Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

To store your Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container with layers of parchment paper in between and they can last up to three months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t overmix the cookie dough; mix until just combined for soft, chewy cookies.
If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add more lemon zest or juice to the filling.

Variation

You can switch things up by adding white chocolate chips or nuts to the cookie dough for extra flavor and texture. If you enjoy a different citrus flavor, try using lime or orange in place of lemon for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used in this recipe for a lighter version of these cookies.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden brown around the edges. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so don’t worry if they seem a little soft in the center.

Enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies!

Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

Author: olivia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful treat combining tangy lemon and rich cream cheese, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is combined.
For the filling, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Then, add the egg yolks and lemon juice and mix until well blended.
Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls and place half of them on the prepared baking sheets.
Create a small well in each ball of dough and spoon in the cream cheese filling.
Top each filled well with another dough ball, sealing the edges to ensure the filling stays inside.
Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.
Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Notes

For best results, ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Avoid overmixing for soft, chewy cookies.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: cookies, lemon, dessert, cream cheese, baking

Ingredients

Instructions

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Welcome! I'm Chef Olivia, and I'm thrilled to share delicious, easy-to-follow homemade recipes that will fill your kitchen with joy. From indulgent desserts to comforting meals, let's cook something wonderful together!