Introduction to Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
When it comes to comfort food, cookies always top the list, and softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies are no exception! What sets these cookies apart is their unique blend of butter and cream cheese. This combination not only makes for a rich, decadent flavor but also results in a soft, chewy texture that’s hard to resist. Ever wondered why some cookies taste thicker and more satisfying? The cream cheese adds moisture, creating an indulgent experience with every bite.
Why Are These Cookies Special?
The magic happens with the addition of cream cheese, which provides a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the chocolate chips. You can play around with ingredients too—like mixing semi-sweet chocolate chips with chunks for extra texture or even swapping in your favorite candies, like M&M’s. Have you ever tried chilling your cookie dough before baking? It transforms the texture and helps prevent spreading, leading to perfectly round and fluffy cookies.
These softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies are not just treats; they’re a canvas for creativity. Whether you’re sipping coffee in the morning or winding down in the evening, these cookies bring warmth and joy to any occasion. So why not gather your ingredients and experience this delightful recipe today?
Ingredients for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
When it comes to baking the perfect softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies, having the right ingredients is essential. Let’s break down what you’ll need for this delicious treat.
Essential ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened for that perfect creamy texture.
- Cream Cheese: ¼ cup, softened. This is the secret ingredient that makes these cookies impossibly soft and rich.
- Sugars: ¾ cup of packed light brown sugar and ¼ cup of granulated sugar contribute to the ideal sweetness and chewiness.
- Egg: 1 large egg for binding everything together.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons add a wonderful aroma and flavor.
- Flour and Leaveners: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon baking soda help achieve that perfect cookie structure.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon optional, but it enhances the sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Chips: 2 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks for that delicious chocolaty bite.
Optional add-ins
While the classic version is delightful as-is, you might consider customizing your cookies further:
- Candy Pieces: Add in M&M's for a fun twist!
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can provide a wonderful crunch.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can heighten the flavors even more.
Feel free to mix and match these add-ins to create your perfect batch! Happy baking! For more baking tips, check out this baking essentials guide!
Step-by-Step Preparation for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making the perfect batch of softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies is easier than you might think! With just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a deliciously soft and chewy treat. Let’s dive into this delightful process together!
Gather your tools and ingredients
Before you start baking, it’s essential to have all your tools and ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
Equipment:
- Stand mixer (or a hand mixer will work too)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
Ingredients:
- 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
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
Once you've gathered these items, you're all set to start mixing!
Cream the butter and cream cheese
In your stand mixer bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat them together on medium-high speed until you achieve a light and fluffy texture—this should take about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because the cream cheese lends a lovely richness and moisture to your cookies. If you don’t have a stand mixer, a hand mixer will work just fine!
Incorporate sugars and egg
Next, add the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and the egg to the creamed mixture. Don’t forget the vanilla extract—this little ingredient is what makes everything taste wonderfully delicious! Mix all ingredients until fully combined. You want everything blending smoothly to leave no lumps of sugar behind.
Combine the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and if you're using it, salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky.
Fold in chocolate chips
Now comes the best part: fold in the delicious chocolate chips or chunks! Give your dough a gentle mix to evenly distribute the chocolate. This is where you can get creative—feel free to add some M&M's for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Chill the dough
It's time for your cookie dough to take a break! Shaping it into mounds, place them on a plate and chill in your refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to 5 days). This step is vital since it helps ensure your cookies bake up thick and chewy rather than thin and crispy.
Bake the cookies
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a non-stick mat. Place your chilled dough mounds on the sheets, allowing about 2 inches between each. Bake for about 8-10 minutes. You want the edges to have set but the centers to remain soft—this will give you that lovely softbatch texture!
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and you can savor their goodness for days. For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!
Variations on Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adding nuts or dried fruits
Elevate your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies by incorporating nuts or dried fruits. Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch and nuttiness that pairs perfectly with chocolate. If you prefer a chewier cookie, try adding dried cranberries or cherries to give a burst of fruity flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount of chocolate chips slightly to accommodate these tasty additions.
Experimenting with flavored chips
Why stop at classic chocolate? Let your creativity flow by experimenting with flavored chips! Peanut butter, butterscotch, or even mint chocolate chips can completely transform your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies. You could even mix different flavored chips for a multi-dimensional treat that surprises your palate. For more inspiration, check out this article on unique cookie variations.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Importance of Chilling the Dough
Chilling the dough for your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies is crucial! It not only helps the flavors meld beautifully, but it also maintains the dough’s shape during baking. Warm dough tends to spread too much, resulting in flat cookies. Aim to chill your dough for at least 2 hours—it's worth the wait!
Adjusting Baking Time for Chewy Cookies
To achieve the perfect chewy texture, keep a close eye on your baking time. Opt for 8-9 minutes, as the cookies will firm up while cooling. Underbaking just slightly allows for a pillowy center while maintaining those soft, chewy edges. If you prefer them softer, 8 minutes is your sweet spot! For more on achieving cookie perfection, check out this comprehensive guide from Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Best Pairings for Cookies
When enjoying your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies, think beyond the glass of milk. These cookies pair wonderfully with:
- A cup of robust coffee or espresso
- Creamy vanilla or salted caramel ice cream
- A refreshing glass of cold brew or iced chai
You could even create a delightful cookie sandwich with whipped cream or frosting for an indulgent treat!
Creative Ways to Present Cookies
Presentation is key when sharing your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies with friends. Here are some fun ideas:
- Cookie Jars: Layer cookies in a clear jar, tied with a decorative ribbon for a homemade gift.
- Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a beautiful platter with fresh fruits or edible flowers.
- Themed Packaging: Use festive boxes or custom bags for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
With these suggestions, you're sure to impress your guests and create memorable experiences around your delicious cookies!
Time Breakdown for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
When you're ready to dive into making these irresistible softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies, it helps to have a quick overview of the time required. Here’s how the moments add up:
Preparation Time
- 10 minutes: That's all it takes to whip up the dough! Gather your ingredients, mix them together, and you're almost there.
Baking Time
- 8 minutes: A quick stint in the oven is all your cookies need to transform into golden-brown treats. Remember, every minute counts, so keep an eye on them!
Total Time with Chilling
- 2 hours 18 minutes: While your dough needs a good chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, most of this time is hands-off! Just relax and let those flavors meld for perfect results.
Get excited about these soft cookies that balance chewiness and flavor beautifully! For more tips on mastering the art of cookie baking, check out resources on cooking techniques and baking science here.
Nutritional Facts for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Calories per cookie
Each of these delicious softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies contains approximately 189 calories. Perfect for a little indulgence without overdoing it!
Key nutrients
These cookies offer a delightful balance of taste and nutrition:
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g (includes 6g saturated fat)
- Sugar: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
With ingredients like cream cheese and chocolate chips, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide a bit of energy for your day. For those looking for a treat that brings both pleasure and a touch of nourishment, these cookies strike a fantastic balance. Enjoy guilt-free!
FAQs about Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
What does cream cheese do for cookies?
Using cream cheese in your softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies adds moisture and richness, resulting in a tender and chewy texture. It helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. You’ll also find that cream cheese contributes to a thicker cookie, preventing them from spreading too much during baking.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a great way to keep these delicious cookies on hand. Just scoop the mounds of dough onto a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or zipper bag. You can bake straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfect results.
How can I ensure my cookies are soft and chewy?
To achieve that desired soft and chewy texture, make sure to chill your dough for at least two hours before baking. This step allows the flavors to meld and helps the cookies maintain their shape. Avoid overbaking; remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly undercooked—they’ll firm up as they cool!
Conclusion on Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking these softbatch cream cheese chocolate chip cookies is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it's about creating a delightful experience. With their rich flavors and soft textures, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t forget to share your results or try out variations with different mix-ins! Happy baking!
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.
- 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, even if slightly undercooked, pale and glossy in the center. Do not bake longer than 10 minutes as cookies will firm up as they cool.
- 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.
- Alternatively, unbaked cookie dough can be stored airtight in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, so consider baking only as many cookies as desired and save the remaining dough to be baked in the future when desired.
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