Looking for a delightful treat that combines the creaminess of cheese with the sweetness of dried apricots? These apricot cream cheese cookies are the perfect solution. They’re soft, slightly tangy, and filled with a burst of fruity flavor, making them a fantastic addition to any dessert table or a sweet snack for your afternoon tea.
Imagine biting into a cookie that’s tender and chewy, with a subtle cream cheese richness and delightful chewy bits of apricot in every mouthful. This recipe is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth — it’s about enjoying the experience of baking and sharing these little bites of joy with loved ones.
Texture and Flavor Profile
These apricot cream cheese cookies offer a delightful chewiness that’s hard to resist.
The combination of the creamy richness from the cream cheese and the sweetness of the dried apricots creates a unique flavor fusion.
Each bite presents a satisfying contrast between soft cookie dough and the little bursts of fruity goodness.
Baking Essentials
To achieve the perfect cookie, gather your essential ingredients beforehand.
The key players include softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and dried apricots, which bring a delightful tang and sweetness.
Having all ingredients at room temperature ensures a smoother batter and better results.
Preparation Steps
Starting with a preheated oven sets the stage for even baking.
Mixing cream cheese and butter until creamy is crucial to achieving the desired texture.
Be sure to fold in the dried apricots gently to maintain their shape within the dough.
Cooling and Finishing Touches
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets briefly before transferring them to wire racks.
This step helps them firm up, ensuring they won’t crumble when moving.
For an extra touch, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet finishing note.
Pairing Suggestions
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, enhancing the overall experience.
The subtle sweetness of the cookies complements the warm flavors of your favorite brews.
Consider serving them at gatherings or as an afternoon snack for a delightful treat.
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
They maintain their softness for several days, making them great for meal prep or snack time.
If you wish to keep them longer, refrigeration can extend their shelf life while preserving flavor.
The Best Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
These cookies are a delightful blend of cream cheese and apricot, creating a tender texture with a hint of tanginess. The sweetness of the apricots perfectly complements the cream cheese, making every bite a heavenly experience.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Flavors: Gradually add granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Add vanilla and almond extract, followed by the egg, and mix until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in Apricots: Gently fold in the chopped dried apricots until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
