If you’re searching for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s both delightful and safe for those avoiding gluten, this Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies strike the perfect balance between rich cream cheese softness and classic sugary sweetness, making each bite irresistibly comforting. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive addition to your holiday cookie tray, these cookies bring joy and simplicity wrapped in one delicious package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is crucial for a flaky and flavorful cookie, and here’s where simplicity shines. Each component plays a starring role in texture, flavor, or structure, coming together to create those perfect gluten-free sugar cookies.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): The sturdy base ensuring these cookies are safe for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing crumbly goodness.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right lift for a tender bite that’s lightly puffed.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet flavors, balancing the cookie beautifully.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Infuses rich creaminess and helps create that luscious melt on your tongue.
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces): The secret ingredient that gives these cookies their unique softness and subtle tang.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens perfectly without overwhelming, helping the cookies brown just right.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together, adding moisture and stability.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warm depth that makes each cookie feel hand-crafted.
- Optional almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Elevates the flavor with a delicate nutty touch if you feel like a little twist.
How to Make Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Gather Tools
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This setup is key because it keeps the cookies from sticking and ensures an even bake every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. This step not only blends the rising agent evenly but helps distribute the salt for balanced flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes 2 to 3 minutes and is the cornerstone for that tender texture you’re after.
Step 4: Add the Egg and Extracts
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth. If you’re using the optional almond extract, add it here too—this is where those lovely flavors start to shine together.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring as you go until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky to manage, pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up a bit.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them spaced out on your prepared baking sheet. Then gently flatten each ball so they bake evenly and achieve that signature sugar cookie shape.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges look set and the bottoms turn a delicate golden hue. Be careful not to overbake; these cookies are best when soft and tender rather than crisp.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes right on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate them however you like, or enjoy their simple sweetness as is.
How to Serve Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkles, colored sugar, or a drizzle of glaze can make these cookies extra festive and fun. For a delicate twist, consider a dusting of powdered sugar or a smear of your favorite jam as a sweet topping.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee for a classic cozy combo. They also go beautifully alongside a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a light dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or parties, try stacking these cookies with parchment paper in between in a decorative tin or wrapping them up with a colorful ribbon. You can also create cookie sandwiches filled with frosting or fruit preserves for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep these cookies snug in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them soft and fresh without any fuss.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Warm your cookies briefly in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or pop them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes to refresh that just-baked softness.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cream cheese for a dairy-free option?
Yes! Using dairy-free cream cheese works well and keeps the texture similar, just be sure to use a brand that softens nicely to blend smoothly with your butter and sugar.
Do I have to use almond extract?
Not at all. The almond extract is optional but it adds a lovely, subtle nutty note. You can skip it or replace it with a little extra vanilla if you prefer.
Why do I need to chill the dough sometimes?
Chilling helps firm up dough that’s too soft or sticky to handle easily. It makes rolling and shaping much simpler and prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Absolutely. If gluten is not a concern, regular all-purpose flour works fine and will produce a similar texture, but be mindful of adjusting bake time slightly as needed.
How do I store decorated cookies?
Store decorated cookies in an airtight container separated by wax paper to avoid smudging or sticking until you’re ready to serve or gift them.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe truly hits the sweet spot for anyone craving soft, flavorful cookies without the gluten. It’s a simple yet special recipe that warms the heart and satisfies the sweet tooth every time. I encourage you to bake a batch and share these little bundles of joy—they’re sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen as well!
Print
Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and soft Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies that are perfect for those avoiding gluten. These cookies are tender, flavorful, and easy to make, featuring a smooth cream cheese-infused dough that results in melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and a lightly golden edge.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum if not included)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Cream butter mixture. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Incorporate egg and extracts. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract to the creamed mixture, beating until smooth and uniform in texture.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels too soft or sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Shape cookies. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, place them spaced out on the prepared baking sheets, and gently flatten each ball slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the bottoms turn a light golden color. Be careful not to overbake.
- Cool cookies. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely to ensure they set properly.
- Decorate. Once fully cooled, decorate the cookies as desired with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain.
Notes
- Using gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum helps with cookie structure; if your flour blend does not include it, add a small amount separately.
- Chilling the dough is optional but recommended if the dough is too soft for easier handling.
- You can substitute almond extract with another extract like lemon or leave it out entirely for a classic vanilla flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For dairy-free versions, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan-friendly alternatives, though texture may vary slightly.
