These chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are irresistibly soft, rich, and packed with chocolatey goodness. The addition of cream cheese creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that sets these cookies apart from classic chocolate chip versions. Perfect for gatherings, cozy afternoons, or anytime you want a crowd-pleasing homemade treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are incredibly soft with a slightly creamy interior that stays moist for days. They’re easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients and require no chilling time. The balance between tangy cream cheese and sweet chocolate chips makes them unique, comforting, and impossible to eat just one.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Add the granulated sugar and mix until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
Servings: 24 cookies
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Total time: approximately 30 minutes
Variations
Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate chips.
Mix in 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm flavor twist.
Add 1/3 cup dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart contrast.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 7 days. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm individual cookies in the microwave for 8–10 seconds to restore softness.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture, but low-fat can be used with slightly less richness.
Do these cookies spread a lot?
They spread moderately and stay soft. Make sure the butter is softened, not melted.
Can I chill the dough?
Yes, chilling for 30 minutes will make the cookies slightly thicker, but it’s not required.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
You can replace half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Why are my cookies too soft?
These cookies are meant to be soft. If they seem underbaked, allow them to cool fully as they firm up slightly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles well with no adjustments needed.
Can I make these cookies smaller?
Yes, use a smaller scoop and reduce baking time by 1–2 minutes.
What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide the best balance, but any chocolate you enjoy works well.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, portion the dough and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to baking time.
How do I know when they’re done?
The edges should be lightly golden while the centers still look soft.
Conclusion
Chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are a simple yet unforgettable treat that delivers softness, richness, and classic flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just indulging at home, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear fast and earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
These chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are incredibly soft and rich with a tender, creamy interior. Cream cheese adds a subtle tang and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making these cookies extra special and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
