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
Scale
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.
