The harmonization of cream cheese in traditional chocolate chip cookies gives rise to an incredibly soft, almost cake-like center that is unparalleled in texture. The rounded chewiness and the complex flavor profile make them a cut above the rest. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients About Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
List of Ingredients with Measurements
To create these scrumptious cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (290g)
- 1 tsp baking soda (6g)
- 1 tsp fine salt (6g)
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature (170g)
- 1/3 cup cream cheese, room temperature (75g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar (200g)
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (8g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
- 2 cups (12 oz package) semi-sweet chocolate chips (340g)
- 1 Tbsp flakey sea salt – garnish (18g)
- 2 Tbsp semi-sweet chocolate chips – optional (22g)
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
For those who love personalization or need dietary accommodations, consider these substitutions:
- Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Swap butter with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option.
- Dark chocolate chips can be used instead of semi-sweet for a richer chocolate experience.
How to Make Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Directions
Step 1: Detailed Instruction
Begin by preparing the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon each of baking soda and fine salt. This step is essential to ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed and contribute to a uniform texture throughout your cookies.
Step 2: Detailed Instruction
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine room-temperature butter and cream cheese. Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract or paste. Cream these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to integrate all components evenly.
Step 3: Detailed Instruction
Add two large eggs to your creamed mixture, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Lower the mixer speed and gradually incorporate the prepared flour mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Add 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and fold them into the dough with a spatula or beat on low until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Detailed Instruction
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days. Chilling allows flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Drop 2-tablespoon mounds of dough onto the baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until edges are golden and centers are slightly underbaked. Remove from oven and sprinkle with flakey sea salt. Optionally, press additional chocolate chips onto warm cookies for aesthetic appeal. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Best Ways to Serve Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are best savored warm, straight from the oven. Serve them on a platter lined with a simple parchment sheet to highlight their rustic charm. The molten chocolate chips combined with the buttery richness are sure to be an instant hit.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair your Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic duo that’s always a crowd-pleaser. For an adult twist, serve with a robust coffee or a glass of dessert wine such as port or sherry to accentuate the chocolate flavor.
How to Store Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Proper Storage Methods
To maintain their freshness, store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer cookies between parchment or wax paper to prevent them from sticking to each other.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
You can freeze unbaked cookie dough mounds for up to three months. When baking from frozen, extend the bake time by a couple of minutes. Reheat baked cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes for that freshly-baked taste.
Tips to Make Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the dough, as it can lead to dense cookies. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and a more uniform cookie texture.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
For even baking, ensure all cookies are of equal size. Using a cookie scoop can help achieve this. Also, sprinkle sea salt immediately after baking to ensure it sticks.
Variation of Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
Introduce nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You can also experiment with white chocolate chips or butterscotch for a different flavor profile.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
For a lactose-free version, replace both butter and cream cheese with substitutes like vegan butter and lactose-free cream cheese. Use dairy-free chocolate chips in place of standard semi-sweet chips.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If your cookies are spreading too much, ensure your butter isn’t too warm or try adding a tablespoon of flour to bind the dough more effectively. If dough becomes too hard after chilling, allow it to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, the cookie dough can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze dough mounds and bake as needed.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
If certain ingredients aren’t at hand, replace them as mentioned in the optional substitutions section. Always be open to flavor experimentation as per your personal preference.
