Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie with a unique twist. These Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavor of chocolate chip cookies with the extra softness and richness of cream cheese. If you’re looking for a cookie that’s soft, chewy, and melts in your mouth, you’ve found the right recipe!

Why Add Cream Cheese to Chocolate Chip Cookies?

You might be wondering why cream cheese is included in this cookie recipe. Cream cheese adds an unexpected layer of flavor and a rich, moist texture to the cookies. It acts as a secret ingredient that keeps the cookies soft for days, even longer than traditional cookies. This addition creates a perfect balance, making the cookies light, tender, and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients Needed for Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need the following 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
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional and to taste)
• 2 ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

this RECIPE

Equipment Needed to Make These Cookies

Ensure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment or electric hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie scoop (about 2 inches)
• Baking sheet
• Silpat non-stick baking mat or parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Beat on medium-high speed until well blended and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Add the light brown sugar and granulated sugar, and continue to mix until the mixture is light and creamy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
3. Add the Chocolate Chips
   Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks by hand or beat them into the dough on low speed. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Shape and Chill the Dough
   Using a medium-sized cookie scoop (about 2 inches), scoop heaping mounds of dough onto a large plate or baking sheet. Gently flatten each mound with your palm. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours or up to 5 days. Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they remain thick and chewy.
5. Bake the Cookies
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with a Silpat non-stick baking mat or parchment paper. Arrange the dough mounds on the baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 9 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are just beginning to set. The centers may still look slightly undercooked, but they will firm up as they cool.
6. Cool the Cookies
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely. This step ensures the cookies maintain their structure and texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Softbatch Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature to help them blend more easily and create a smooth, consistent dough.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing too much flour into the dough.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the cookie’s shape and achieving a thick, soft texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking the Cookies: These cookies should be slightly undercooked in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to bake on the hot baking sheet, resulting in a soft and chewy texture.
2. Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause the cookies to spread too much and become flat.
3. Using Cold Butter: Cold butter won’t cream properly with the sugars, resulting in dense cookies. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted.

How to Store and Freeze Your Cookies

• Storing Baked Cookies: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze them for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Freezing Cookie Dough: You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough. Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

• Serve these cookies warm with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for a comforting treat.
• For a more decadent dessert, pair the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Arrange them in a decorative tin or box and gift them to friends and family for special occasions.

Variations and Substitutions for the Recipe

• Chocolate Variety: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds for extra crunch.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder for an added depth of flavor.

FAQs About Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
  Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• What can I use instead of cream cheese?
  If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese for a similar texture and flavor.
• How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
  Use a dairy-free butter substitute and vegan cream cheese to make the recipe dairy-free.

Conclusion

These Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves a soft and chewy cookie with a rich, creamy flavor. They’re easy to make, delightfully delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a cookie experience like no other!

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Also, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one. Happy baking!

Print