CREAM CHEESE SUGAR COOKIES
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ounces (85g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Form the Dough:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. **Chill:** Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each into a disc, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
5. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. **Roll and Cut:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes and place them onto the prepared baking sheets.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. **Repeat:** Repeat the rolling and baking process with the second disc of dough.
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting:
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring and sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, add food coloring to achieve the preferred hue.
4. Once the cookies have cooled, spread or pipe the frosting onto each cookie and decorate with sprinkles as desired.