Omg! I served this at a meetup, and people devoured it instantly.

 There's something truly magical about the combination of chocolate and cream cheese, and these cookies are a testament to that delightful pairing. This recipe hails from the heart of the Midwest, where baking is a cherished tradition passed down through generations.

Plate of chocolate chip cream cheese cookies on a farmhouse table

These cookies are perfect for those cozy afternoons when you want to fill your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked treats. With their soft, creamy texture and bursts of chocolate, they're a reminder of simpler times and the joy of sharing homemade goodness with loved ones.

These chocolate chip cream cheese cookies are a treat all on their own, but they pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a delightful afternoon snack, serve them alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cookies served with milk and coffee

They're also a wonderful addition to a dessert platter, nestled among other homemade cookies and sweets.

Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Cookies

Servings: 24 cookies

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 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

Baking ingredients gathered for cream cheese cookies

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and well combined.

Butter and cream cheese being mixed in a bowl

Add the granulated sugar and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Dry ingredients whisked together in a bowl

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Cookie dough with chocolate chips folded in

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cookie dough portions on a parchment-lined baking sheet

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations & Tips

For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough for added crunch. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like dark chocolate or white chocolate, to suit your taste.

Freshly baked cookies cooling on a wire rack

If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm, spicy note to the cookies. For those who love a bit of fruitiness, consider mixing in some dried cranberries or cherries along with the chocolate chips.