These Soft-Batch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are a chocolate lover’s dream! They’re chewy, creamy, and packed with sweet chocolate chips that melt in your mouth.
Honestly, the cream cheese makes these cookies extra soft and delightful. I can never stop at just one—they’re perfect for sharing, or not! 😂
I love baking these cookies because the dough comes together quickly, and the smell in the kitchen is heavenly. They’re a sure way to brighten anyone’s day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the star ingredient that creates a soft texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cream cheese. You can also swap in Greek yogurt for a similar creamy quality.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt to a pinch. I’ve used coconut oil too, which gives a nice twist on flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but for a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had great success with almond flour for a nuttier flavor—just adjust the quantity as needed.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips are classic, but feel free to use dark chocolate for a richer taste or even white chocolate for sweetness. Mixing in some chopped nuts adds a nice crunch!
How Do I Keep My Cookies Soft and Chewy?
To ensure your cookies come out soft and chewy, pay close attention to baking time. It’s best to underbake slightly, as cookies continue to firm up once out of the oven. Here are some more tips:
- Bake at a lower temperature, around 350°F (175°C), as specified. This allows slow cooking for a softer center.
- Remove cookies while they look a bit underbaked. The edges should be lightly golden, while the center appears soft.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the fat, which contributes to a thicker cookie.
- I also recommend using fresh baking soda to achieve the best rise. Old baking soda can lead to flat cookies.
Soft-Batch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5 minutes for cooling before enjoying them. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes before you can indulge in these dreamy cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats; this will keep the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier!
2. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend them until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is important for that delicious soft texture!
3. Add the Sugars:
Next, add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the bowl. Beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Incorporate Egg and Vanilla:
Now, add in the egg and the vanilla extract. Beat again until everything is fully combined and looks nice and creamy.
5. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the baking soda and prevent clumping.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture into your creamed mixture while beating on low speed. Mix just until everything is combined—don’t overmix, or your cookies might be tough!
7. Add Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips gently, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Scoop and Bake:
Scoop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Pop them in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You want the edges to be lightly golden while the centers look slightly underbaked. This is the secret to keeping them soft!
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Wait a little longer, and then enjoy these delicious, creamy cookies with your favorite drink!
11. Happy Baking!
These cookies are sure to become a favorite! Share them with friends or savor each bite yourself—either way, they won’t last long!
Can I Use Light Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Light cream cheese works just fine and will still provide that lovely softness while slightly reducing the overall calorie count. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re fully cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Can I Substitute the Chocolate Chips?
Yes, feel free to substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips! You can also mix in some nuts or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
What Should I Do If My Dough is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the butter and cream cheese, making it easier to scoop and manage.
