There is something irresistibly delightful about a cookie that melts in your mouth while being soft, tender, and packed with subtle richness. This Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe captures that dreamy texture perfectly by blending the smooth creaminess of cream cheese with the classic sweetness of sugar cookies, all while being completely gluten free. Whether you’re gluten sensitive or just craving a delicious twist on a timeless treat, these cookies are a warm hug in every bite, promising buttery flavor, a slight tang, and the kind of crumbly softness that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet pivotal to nailing the perfect cookie texture and flavor. Each has a special role, from creating the tender crumb to adding the lovely golden hue you want in a sugar cookie.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Ensures your cookies have structure without the gluten, and using a blend with xanthan gum helps with the perfect chew.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of rise and fluffiness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup or 1 stick, softened): Gives a rich, creamy base and keeps cookies tender.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Adds moisture, tang, and that melt-in-your-mouth quality unique to this recipe.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens while helping create that lovely brown edge when baked.
- Large egg (1): Binds ingredients together and adds a bit of richness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- Optional almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): A subtle nutty note to elevate the cookies, but totally optional depending on your taste.
How to Make Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt. This simple mix sets the foundation for the perfect crumb and helps distribute the leavening evenly, contributing to that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is the secret weapon to these cookies’ tender texture. The cream cheese adds moisture and richness, while the butter and sugar create a creamy base that traps air for that soft bite.
Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Extracts
Next, mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it. Beat until everything is smooth and combined. This step brings the dough together while infusing it with those delightful sweet aromas that will fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to your wet mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix as that can toughen gluten-free dough. If you find your dough a bit too soft or sticky to handle, just pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up—it makes rolling the cookies so much easier.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them spaced out on your lined baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball just a little to help them bake evenly. Slide them into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching carefully—they are done when the edges are set and the bottoms show a slight golden hue. Avoid overbaking, as these cookies are best soft and tender.
Step 6: Cool and Optional Decoration
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes—they’ll be delicate at first but firm up as they cool. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. From here, you can decorate with icing, sprinkles, or leave them plain to enjoy their natural buttery, creamy flavor.
How to Serve Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are fantastic on their own, adding a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of lemon glaze, or colorful sprinkles can instantly make them party-ready. Freshly grated zest of lemon or orange also pairs beautifully with the cream cheese flavor, giving your cookies a refreshing pop.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside a cold glass of almond milk or hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat. They are also a lovely companion to a fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfait, balancing sweetness with light, fresh flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe on a charming decorative plate or tiered stand for a tea party or family gathering. You can sandwich a bit of homemade jam or frosting between two cookies for an adorable twist, turning them into mini cookie sandwiches everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh for up to 3 days. Placing a slice of bread inside the container can help maintain their moisture, but be sure to remove it before eating.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either before baking or after. For unbaked dough balls, freeze them spaced apart on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag; bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. For baked cookies, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to a month; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked feel, warm cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This helps soften them up and brings out the lovely cream cheese flavor anew.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular flour for gluten-free flour in this recipe?
This recipe is optimized for gluten-free flour blends with xanthan gum to provide the right texture. Using regular flour will change the cookie’s structure and tenderness, and may require different measurements.
Why is cream cheese used in sugar cookies?
Cream cheese adds moisture, richness, and a slight tang that enhances the cookie’s flavor and results in a soft, tender texture that’s a standout from classic sugar cookie recipes.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
You can try substituting dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter alternatives, but keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture slightly. Experimenting with plant-based options can still yield tasty results!
How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?
Look for cookies with set edges and lightly golden bottoms. The tops might remain pale, but the key is to avoid overbaking so they stay soft and tender inside.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit can personalize these cookies wonderfully. Just fold them in during the dough mixing step before shaping.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to bake and share. Its simple ingredients come together in a way that feels special yet comforting, perfect whether for holidays, a casual snack, or gifting to friends. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience the tender, flavorful magic for yourself!
Print
Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Gluten Free Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies are soft, tender, and perfectly sweet, made with a blend of gluten-free flour and cream cheese for extra moisture and flavor. Ideal for those following a gluten-free diet, these cookies offer a delightful texture and classic vanilla-almond flavor with simple ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to bake and great for decorating or enjoying plain.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Cream Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Flavorings: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until the dough becomes smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each slightly with the palm of your hand or a fork to help them bake evenly.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and bottoms turn a light golden color. Be careful not to overbake to keep the cookies soft.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate: Once cooled, decorate the cookies as desired with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain for a simple treat.
Notes
- Ensure your gluten-free flour blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help bind the dough.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and makes the cookies easier to handle.
- Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for better creaming and texture.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream cheese with suitable alternatives, but texture may vary.
