Cream Cheese Meltaway Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever had a cookie that melts in your mouth, you’ll know there’s something magical about it. These cream cheese meltaway cookies are exactly that kind of treat. Soft, buttery, and topped with a delicate cream cheese frosting, they truly live up to the “meltaway” name. They’re perfect for any season and occasion—whether you’re putting together a dessert platter, looking for a holiday baking project, or just need something sweet to enjoy with your afternoon tea. This recipe brings the nostalgic comfort of a homemade cookie, but with a soft, creamy twist that makes it extra special.

this RECIPE

A little story about these cookies 🎉

I remember the first time I made these meltaway cookies. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I was in the mood for something cozy but simple. I stumbled across an old handwritten recipe from my grandmother’s recipe box—faded ink on yellowed paper, with a few splashes of what I imagine to be coffee or melted butter. It called for cream cheese in the dough and frosting, which immediately caught my attention. The idea of adding that creamy richness to both the cookie and the topping sounded too good to pass up. I decided to give it a try, and from that first bite, I was hooked. The cookie practically disappeared on my tongue, leaving just a hint of vanilla and cream cheese sweetness. These cookies quickly became a family favorite, and I’m so excited to share them with you.

The origin of meltaway cookies

Meltaway cookies are known for their soft, tender texture that “melts away” when you take a bite. This delightful texture is achieved by using a mix of cornstarch and flour, which gives the cookies their signature softness. Adding cream cheese to the dough is a twist that likely emerged as bakers experimented with ways to make these cookies even creamier and more flavorful. Cream cheese adds a subtle tang and a rich, creamy texture that balances out the sweetness. Variations of meltaway cookies can be found in many different baking traditions, from Russian tea cakes to shortbread cookies, but the cream cheese version has its own unique charm.

Let’s talk ingredients: the stars of these meltaways

• Butter: Softened butter forms the base of these cookies, adding a rich flavor and buttery texture. Make sure it’s fully softened for easy mixing. If you’re out of unsalted butter, salted butter works too—just reduce the salt in the recipe slightly.
• Cream Cheese: This is the key ingredient that makes these cookies ultra-soft and creamy. For the dough, only two tablespoons are needed, but the frosting calls for a full 8 ounces. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and texture, but reduced-fat can work in a pinch.
• Powdered Sugar: This sugar dissolves quickly and gives the cookies a light sweetness without grittiness. Powdered sugar is also used in the frosting, making it smooth and fluffy.
• Flour & Cornstarch: Flour gives structure, while cornstarch adds that melt-in-your-mouth quality. The combination creates a delicate, almost velvety texture in the cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla brings warmth and depth to the cookies and frosting. Feel free to use almond extract instead for a slightly nutty twist.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.

Kitchen tools you’ll need

To make these meltaway cookies, you don’t need any fancy equipment, but a few basic tools will make the process easier:

• Mixer: A stand mixer is ideal, but a hand mixer works just as well. Creaming the butter and cream cheese to a smooth consistency is essential for the cookie texture.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: These help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cookies completely before frosting, a wire rack is super helpful.
• Spatula and Small Offset Spatula: Use a spatula to scrape down the bowl, and an offset spatula makes spreading the frosting easier and more precise.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to getting the perfect texture for these delicate cookies.

Step-by-step: How to make cream cheese meltaway cookies

1. Prep the oven and baking sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This step keeps the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.

2. Cream the butter, cream cheese, and vanilla

In the bowl of your mixer, combine 1 cup of softened butter, 2 tablespoons of cream cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until smooth and fluffy. This step creates a creamy, light base for the cookies.

3. Add powdered sugar

Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar to the butter mixture and continue to beat until fully incorporated. The powdered sugar adds sweetness and a delicate texture without making the dough too heavy.

4. Mix in dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing slowly until everything comes together in a smooth, soft dough. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl, making it easy to scoop.

5. Shape and flatten the cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Dip the bottom of a glass in powdered sugar (to prevent sticking) and gently flatten each cookie. This step gives the cookies an even thickness, so they bake uniformly.

6. Bake and cool

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just set. These cookies don’t need much color, so don’t wait for them to turn golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Make the frosting

While the cookies are cooling, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of softened butter, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Slowly add 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and smooth. For a bit of fun, add a drop of food coloring to match the season or celebration.

8. Frost and decorate

Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on each one. You can add sprinkles, edible glitter, or even a tiny pinch of grated lemon zest for a hint of freshness.

Fun variations and tweaks

• Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a subtle citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with cream cheese.
• Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the dough for a bit of crunch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the frosted cookies. It adds a little elegance and a hint of chocolate flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The cornstarch already makes the texture light, so it translates well to gluten-free flour.

Serving and presentation ideas

To make these cookies look extra inviting, arrange them on a tiered dessert stand or a simple white platter. Garnish each cookie with a single edible flower petal or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a pretty, delicate touch. These cookies are perfect for a tea party, holiday gathering, or as a gift—just package them in a pretty tin lined with parchment paper, and they make a beautiful homemade present.

Perfect drink pairings

These cream cheese meltaway cookies pair wonderfully with warm, cozy drinks. Try serving them with a hot cup of spiced chai or a soothing lavender tea. For something a little different, a vanilla steamer (warm milk with a hint of vanilla) complements the cookies’ creamy, buttery flavors perfectly. And if you’re making these in the summer, a refreshing iced matcha or an iced herbal tea, like hibiscus or chamomile, adds a lovely contrast to the richness of the cookies.

Storing and reheating tips

These cookies are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge, especially if they’re frosted. They’ll keep well for up to a week this way. If you want to freeze them, place them (unfrosted) in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to serve, let the cookies thaw at room temperature and frost them just before serving.

Scaling the recipe for more (or fewer) cookies

This recipe makes about 24 small cookies, but it’s easy to double if you’re baking for a crowd. Just keep an eye on the dough consistency when scaling up, and consider mixing in batches if you’re using a small mixer. If you want to make fewer cookies, simply halve the ingredients—these cookies are forgiving, and the texture remains just as melt-in-your-mouth good.

Potential pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

• Overbaking: These cookies should be pale, not golden. Keep a close watch during baking to avoid drying them out.
• Frosting too early: Let the cookies cool completely before frosting, or the frosting will melt and slide off.
• Sticky dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, pop it in the fridge for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to work with and helps the cookies hold their shape.

Give these cream cheese meltaway cookies a try!

I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) these cream cheese meltaway cookies as much as I do. They’re the kind of treat that brings joy with every bite and are perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Don’t be afraid to play around with flavors and decorations to make them your own. Let me know in the comments if you try any fun variations or have a favorite pairing. Happy baking!

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Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These cookies keep well in the fridge for up to a week, so feel free to make them a day or two in advance.

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just frost them after thawing.

Q: Do I need to use full-fat cream cheese?
A: Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor, but reduced-fat can work if that’s what you have on hand.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking blend in place of the all-purpose flour. The cornstarch already helps keep the texture soft.

Q: What other flavors can I add to these cookies?
A: Try adding lemon zest, almond extract, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist on these classic cookies.

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