Introduction
Imagine a cookie that feels like a cloud melting in your mouth. Cream cheese meltaways are the epitome of that delightful experience, combining rich creaminess with a buttery texture. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a tea party or simply indulging yourself on a quiet evening.
The beauty of meltaways lies not just in their taste, but also in their simplicity. With just a few ingredients, they come together in no time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade treat without the fuss. Plus, they are versatile enough to be customized with flavors like lemon, almond, or vanilla, making them a favorite among home bakers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
Butter provides the base for the cookie, lending it a rich flavor and a tender texture. Using room temperature butter helps to create a smooth dough that will hold its shape during baking. - 3 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
Cream cheese adds creaminess and a slight tang to the meltaways, enhancing their overall flavor. Its fat content also contributes to the chewy and soft texture of the cookies. - ¾ cup cornstarch
Cornstarch plays a critical role in achieving a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It tenderizes the dough, creating a light and airy cookie that literally melts away upon taking a bite. - ¾ cup powdered sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the cookies while helping to keep them tender. Its fine texture ensures that it incorporates smoothly into the dough, preventing any graininess. - 1 cup all-purpose flour
All-purpose flour provides structure to the meltaways, helping them to hold their shape during baking. It balances the richness of the butter and cream cheese, resulting in a well-rounded cookie. - ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile of the meltaways, adding a warm and aromatic quality that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Preheating the oven is essential to ensure even baking from the start. Lining the baking sheets with parchment paper prevents the meltaways from sticking and facilitates easy removal once they are baked.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
Creaming the butter and cream cheese together aerates the mixture, leading to a lighter cookie. Ensure both ingredients are at room temperature for smooth blending, which helps in evenly distributing the fat throughout the dough.
Step 3: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
Adding powdered sugar gradually helps prevent clumping and ensures a smooth integration into the creamed mixture. This step also contributes to the sweetness and texture of the meltaways.
Step 4: Sift together the cornstarch and flour, then gradually fold them into the wet mixture.
Sifting the dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps and promotes an even distribution of cornstarch and flour. Folding them into the wet mixture carefully helps maintain the airiness of the dough, which is essential for a tender cookie.
Step 5: Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
Spacing the dough balls allows the meltaways room to spread slightly without merging into one another while baking. Use a spoon or cookie scoop for uniformity, which helps with even baking.
Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set, but the centers are still soft.
Watching the baking time is crucial; underbaking slightly ensures the cookies will stay soft and melt-in-your-mouth after cooling. Keep an eye on the edges for a lightly golden color while the centers should remain pale.
Step 7: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about a minute before transferring them to a wire rack.
Cooling them briefly on the baking sheet allows the cookies to set slightly before transferring. This helps prevent them from breaking apart while still maintaining a soft, meltaway texture.
A Flavorful Twist on Tradition
Creating variations of cream cheese meltaways is easy and fun. Consider adding zest from fresh citrus fruits like lemon or orange to your dough for a bright, refreshing flavor. Alternatively, incorporating almond extract instead of vanilla can impart a deliciously nutty note. This versatility allows you to experiment and make these meltaways uniquely yours.
Perfect Pairings for Cream Cheese Meltaways
Cream cheese meltaways pair beautifully with beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Their light texture complements drinks that have rich flavors. Serve them at gatherings, alongside fresh fruit or layered desserts, where their delicate sweetness can balance heavier elements, delighting your guests and enhancing their overall experience.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
For optimal freshness, store cream cheese meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several days, allowing you to enjoy them at your leisure. To impress guests, consider dusting them with additional powdered sugar before serving; this simple touch adds a touch of elegance and enhances their visual appeal.
FAQs
What should I do if my dough is too soft to shape?
If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to drop onto the baking sheet without spreading too much during baking.
Can I use less sugar without affecting the texture too much?
Yes, you can reduce the powdered sugar by up to a quarter without drastically affecting the texture. However, keep in mind that this may result in a less sweet cookie, so adjust based on your taste preference.
What if the meltaways turn out too dry?
If your meltaways are dry, it may be due to overbaking or not using enough butter. Ensure you check them a minute or two before the recommended baking time ends. If you find they are often dry, consider adding a little more cream cheese or butter to your dough.
Can I add chocolate chips to the meltaway dough?
Absolutely! Incorporating mini chocolate chips into the dough will add a delightful burst of chocolate flavor. Just be mindful to fold them in gently to maintain the cookie's delicate texture.
What size should I make the dough balls for even baking?
Aim for teaspoon-sized balls, about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. This size ensures they bake evenly and reach that perfect meltaway texture.
Can I use flavored cream cheese instead of plain?
Yes! Using flavored cream cheese can add an interesting twist to your meltaways. Just be sure to select a flavor that will complement the overall taste, such as strawberry or chive for savory options.
Conclusion
Cream cheese meltaways are not just cookies; they are a comforting treat that embodies the joy of home baking. With their creaminess and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your household.
Allow your creativity to flourish as you explore different flavors and presentations. Each batch you make can tell a unique story, whether through variations or the moments shared with friends and family while enjoying them.
Recipe Card
Deliciously Soft Cream Cheese Meltaways Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter room temperature
- 3 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- ¾ cup cornstarch
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
- Sift together the cornstarch and flour, then gradually fold them into the wet mixture.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set, but the centers are still soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about a minute before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
