Introduction to Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
When it comes to homemade treats, softbatch cookies are a game changer for cookie lovers everywhere. What sets these cookies apart is their rich texture, which results from the unique combination of butter and cream cheese. This duo adds an incredible depth of flavor and moisture, making every bite feel like a warm hug! If you’ve ever found yourself with a cookie that wasn’t quite soft enough, you’ll understand the importance of getting it just right.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that has chewy edges and a soft, pillowy center—that’s the magic of these softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies. Unlike regular cookies, this recipe ensures that the dough is chilled before baking, helping maintain that desirable softness while preventing unwanted spreading in the oven.
If you’re eager to impress friends and family with your baking prowess, these cookies can be your secret weapon. Perfect for casual get-togethers or just satisfying that late-night craving, they are versatile enough to customize with chocolate chunks, M&M's, or even your favorite nuts. You’ll wonder how you ever baked without cream cheese in your cookie dough! For more information on baking techniques, check out resources from the Baking Institute.
Embrace the joy of making your own sweet treats—your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking delicious softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies begins with gathering some key ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delightful treats:
Essential ingredients you’ll need
- ½ cup unsalted butter - Make sure it's softened for easy creaming.
- ¼ cup cream cheese - This is what gives the cookies that rich, soft texture.
- ¾ cup light brown sugar - Adds a depth of flavor and moisture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar - For that perfect sweetness.
- 1 large egg - Binds everything together.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract - A must for that warm flavor.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour - The foundation of your cookies.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch - Helps with the chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda - For leavening and lift.
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional) - Enhances other flavors without being salty.
- 2 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks - Use a mix for a fun texture.
Optional ingredients to mix things up
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add some crunch.
- M&M's: For color and a fun twist.
- Flavored extracts: Consider almond or hazelnut for a unique flair.
Gathering these ingredients will set you on the path to baking the softest, most satisfying cookies. If you're curious about any substitutions or variations, feel free to ask!
For tips on perfecting your baking techniques, you might find resources from King Arthur Baking handy.
Step-by-step preparation of Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies is an enjoyable experience that results in delightful, pillowy treats. Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create a batch that will please everyone!
Gather your tools and ingredients
Start by organizing your workspace. You'll need a few essential tools to make this process seamless:
- A stand mixer or electric hand mixer
- A mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Now it's time to gather your ingredients, which are the stars of the show:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
- 2 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
Cream the butter and cream cheese
In your mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese, and beat them together using your stand mixer on medium-high speed. Aim for a light and fluffy texture—this should take about 5 minutes. This step adds richness to your cookies, making them irresistibly soft and delightful.
Incorporate sugars and egg for richness
Next up, add in the packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, and the egg, along with the vanilla extract. Mix everything together until the mixture is well-combined, smooth, and creamy. This beautiful blend of flavors is where the magic begins!
Mix in dry ingredients for a perfect dough
Now it’s time to incorporate your dry ingredients. Gently add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. You want the dough to be smooth but not overly worked.
Add the chocolate chips and chunks
For that signature chocolatey goodness, fold in the chocolate chips and chunks. You can use a spatula or the mixer on the lowest setting for this step. The more variance in size with your chocolate pieces, the better!
Chill the dough for the perfect texture
Once your dough is prepared, it's crucial to chill it. Scoop the dough into heaping mounds on a plate, flatten them slightly, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 5 days). Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, ensuring that they maintain that soft texture.
Bake to golden perfection
When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats, and place the chilled mounds of dough 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 9 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked. Allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
With these step-by-step directions, you're well on your way to enjoying a batch of softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies that you can proudly share with friends and family! Happy baking!
Variations on Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Fun with flavors: nuts, M&M's, and more
Get creative with your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies by adding fun flavors! Consider tossing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch, or swap some chocolate chips for colorful M&M's to brighten up the batch. You could even try a pinch of espresso powder for a coffee-infused twist or sprinkle in some sea salt for a contrast that elevates the sweetness. The options are as endless as your imagination!
Dietary-friendly swaps for specific diets
Looking to make these cookies a bit more inclusive? Here are some swaps to cater to specific dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free version and replace butter with coconut oil.
- Sugar-Free: Consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie treat.
With just a few adjustments, everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies!
Cooking tips and notes for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Importance of chilling the dough
Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies. It allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. If you’re wondering about the best way to chill, simply cover the mounds in plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This step is worth the wait!
How to achieve the ideal chewy texture
To get that delightful chewy texture, aim for a balance between ingredients and baking time. The combination of cream cheese and butter provides moisture, while baking for only 8-9 minutes ensures they remain soft in the center. Remember to rotate your baking sheets halfway through for even cooking! If you’re curious, you can learn more about cookie textures here. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pairing Cookies with Beverages
Enjoy your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies with a warm cup of coffee or a frothy latte. The rich flavor of the cookies complements the bold notes of coffee beautifully. For something refreshing, try pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a classic hot chocolate, elevating that comforting experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, a fruit-infused iced tea can introduce a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Creative Ways to Serve at Gatherings
When it comes to gatherings, presentation matters! Arrange your cookies on a decorative platter, and consider adding a variety of toppings like sprinkles or drizzles of caramel or chocolate syrup.
- Create a cookie sandwich bar, offering various fillings such as peanut butter or whipped cream cheese for guests to customize their treats.
- Alternatively, stack cookies in a mason jar for a cute party favor that guests will love.
These ideas are not only fun but encourage everyone to indulge in these softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies in creative ways!
Time Breakdown for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Preparation time
Get started with just 10 minutes of prep! This includes mixing the dough and getting your ingredients ready.
Chilling time
Patience is key here—allow at least 2 hours for the dough to chill. This step is crucial for achieving soft and chewy cookies!
Baking time
Baking takes about 8 to 9 minutes. You'll want to watch for that lovely golden edge while keeping the center slightly glossy for the perfect texture.
Total time
In just 2 hours and 18 minutes, you’ll have a fresh batch of delicious softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies ready to enjoy.
This recipe is a great weekend project! You get all the satisfaction of baking, without spending your whole day in the kitchen. Plus, you can nibble on the dough while you wait. Happy baking!
If you need more tips and tricks on baking, you might find this article on the science of cookie baking helpful!
Nutritional Facts for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Calories per Cookie
Each softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookie packs a delightful punch at 189 calories. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while keeping your snack-time indulgence mindful.
Protein Content
With 2 grams of protein per cookie, these treats can offer a small boost, making them a sweet option to fuel your day!
Sugar and Fat Breakdown
When it comes to sweetness, each cookie contains 13 grams of sugar. The fat content is 10 grams, with 6 grams being saturated fat. This balance of flavors and textures makes the cookies irresistibly soft and decadent.
For a deeper dive into the nutritional content, you can explore resources like the USDA’s FoodData Central for comprehensive insights on ingredients. Remember, enjoying these cookies occasionally as part of a balanced diet is a delightful way to treat yourself!
FAQs about Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
What’s the secret to soft cookies?
The secret to achieving irresistibly soft softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies lies in the unique combination of butter and cream cheese. This duo not only adds a rich flavor but also contributes to that delightful chewy texture you crave. Moreover, chilling the dough allows the cookies to maintain their structure while baking, preventing them from spreading too thin. So, don’t skip the refrigeration step!
Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze both the cookie dough and the baked cookies. Just make sure to wrap the dough or cookies tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Baked cookies are best enjoyed within three months, while cookie dough can last up to five days in the refrigerator before baking.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies will stay fresh for up to a week. If you're planning to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them for future treats!
Conclusion on Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Experience the delightful fusion of flavor in these softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies. With their rich, tender texture thanks to the cream cheese, they are sure to become a favorite! Perfect for sharing—or savoring alone—give them a try for your next baking adventure!
Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Equipment
- stand mixer
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 0.25 cup cream cheese, softened Use cream cheese in a block or spreadable, don’t use fat-free, light or whipped.
- 0.75 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2.25 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt optional and to taste
- 2.25 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks I used 1 cup chips and 1 ¼ cups chunks.
Instructions
- To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter, cream cheese, sugars, egg, vanilla, and beat on medium-high speed until well-creamed, light and fluffy, about 5 minutes (or use an electric hand mixer and beat for at least 7 minutes).
- Stop, scrape down the sides of the bowl, and add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, optional salt, and mix until just combined, about 1 minute.
- Add chocolate chips and chunks, and beat momentarily to incorporate, or fold in by hand.
- Using a medium 2-inch cookie scoop, form heaping mounds (I made 28). Place mounds on a large plate, flatten mounds slightly with your palm, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 5 days, before baking.
- Preheat oven to 350F, line a baking sheet with a Silpat Non-Stick Baking Mat or spray with cooking spray and place mounds on baking sheet, spaced at least 2 inches apart (I bake 8 cookies per sheet).
- Bake for 8 to 9 minutes, or until edges have set and tops are just beginning to set. Do not bake longer than 10 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing and transferring to a rack to finish cooling.
- Cookies will keep airtight at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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