These Soft-Batch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are a treat everyone loves! Soft, chewy, and packed with melty chocolate chips, they are perfect for any cookie lover.
Using cream cheese makes them extra moist and delicious. I can never eat just one! 🍪 Set some aside for tomorrow, but good luck with that! You’ll want to share… or not!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is crucial for flavor and texture. If you run out, you can substitute it with margarine or coconut oil. However, this might change the taste a bit, so keep that in mind.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds moisture and a slight tang that makes these cookies special. You can use Neufchâtel cheese or even Greek yogurt if you need a lighter option, but it won’t have the same creamy texture.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate gives a balanced sweetness. If you prefer something sweeter, go for milk chocolate chips. Dark chocolate is a great option if you like a more intense chocolate flavor. You can also mix different types for variety!
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you could try a gluten-free all-purpose mix if needed. Just make sure it has a binding agent!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Soft Texture in Cookies?
Getting that soft-batch feel is all about the baking time and ingredient ratios. First, mix the wet ingredients thoroughly, as they help create a creamy texture. You’re aiming for a soft dough, so don’t overmix once you add flour.
- Pre-bake, check for the perfect timing – look for golden edges but a soft center.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a bit before transferring them to a rack. This helps set them while they continue to cook from residual heat.
- Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft. You can add a slice of bread to help retain moisture!
How to Make Soft-Batch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup 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
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips and chunks (or your favorite chocolate)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking, plus a few minutes for cooling. So, in about 30 minutes, you’ll have fresh, delicious cookies ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, cream these together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Sugars:
Next, add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar to the butter-cream cheese mixture. Beat until it is fluffy and pale, which will take about another 2 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla:
Now, beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This adds richness and flavor to the cookies!
5. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough!
7. Add Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chunks, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Who doesn’t love chocolate in every bite?
8. Scoop the Dough:
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
9. Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the center still looks a little soft, which helps keep them chewy.
10. Cool Down:
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Enjoy!
Your soft, creamy, chocolate-studded cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their softness. Happy baking!
These cookies are rich with the slight tang of cream cheese and have a beautifully soft, chewy texture with luscious melted chocolate chunks providing bursts of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a cozy treat!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may slightly alter the texture and richness of the cookies. They might not be as soft and creamy, but they’ll still taste great!
What Should I Do If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help solidify the fats and make it easier to scoop and shape.
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Absolutely! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the individual cookie portions. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Keep the Cookies Soft After Baking?
To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also add a slice of bread to the container, as it helps to maintain moisture and softness!
