Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a cookie that strikes the perfect balance between soft, chewy, and just a bit indulgent, then this Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. These cookies boast a tender crumb thanks to the creamy addition of cream cheese, which adds a subtle tang and extra moisture that transforms a classic chocolate chip cookie into a uniquely luscious treat. Every bite melts softly in your mouth, studded with generous pockets of semi-sweet chocolate chips that deliver delight in every chew. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or sharing with loved ones, this recipe has a way of turning simple ingredients into moments of warm, sweet comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe plays an essential role, coming together to create that perfect softness and rich flavor. From the creamy butter to the tangy cream cheese, and the combination of sugars for just the right sweetness and chew, each component brings its own magic to the dough.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened): Adds moisture and a subtle tangy flavor that makes these cookies irresistibly soft.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Brings deep caramel notes and helps keep the cookies moist and chewy.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and contributes to the perfect cookie spread.
• 1 large egg: Binds all ingredients together and adds structure without sacrificing softness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, inviting flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything in place and creates the cookie’s soft crumb.
• 2 tsp cornstarch: The secret ingredient to extra-soft cookies by tenderizing the flour proteins.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and contributes to a light texture.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Loads of melty chocolate chunks that make every bite irresistible.

How to Make Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to the perfect temperature of 350°F (175°C). Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line your baking sheet ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This step is key—it’s what sets the foundation for the cookie’s signature soft, rich texture.

Step 3: Add the Sugars

Next, incorporate the brown sugar and granulated sugar into the creamy butter and cream cheese mixture. Beat thoroughly until everything is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender crumb.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. These wet ingredients add moisture and flavor, creating the perfect consistency for the dough.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This mixture ensures an even distribution of leavening and tenderizers throughout the dough.

Step 6: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips by hand to spread them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 7: Portion the Dough

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet to give them room to spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies for 9 to 11 minutes. You’ll want to look for set edges with centers that still appear a little underbaked; this ensures that softbatch texture we’re aiming for. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set perfectly, making them easier to lift and giving you that perfect soft yet slightly chewy bite.

How to Serve Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies are stunning all on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after baking can turn them into an extra-special treat that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Side Dishes

Pair your Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe with a cold glass of milk, a cup of rich coffee, or a warm mug of tea to complement the creamy chocolate and soft texture beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these cookies as sandwich cookies with a layer of vanilla or chocolate frosting in the middle. Alternatively, dip half into melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts to add a crunchy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll retain their soft, chewy texture for up to 3 days—perfect for a quick snack anytime.

Freezing

You can freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag after they harden to store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply pop them into the oven without thawing for fresh-baked goodness.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm your cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or heat them briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F. This will soften them up and melt the chocolate chips just slightly.

FAQs

What makes these cookies “softbatch”?

The magic lies in the addition of cream cheese and cornstarch, which give the dough extra moisture and tenderness, resulting in that famously soft and chewy texture.

Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

Cream cheese is essential here for both flavor and texture. While you might try using mascarpone or even Greek yogurt, it will change the cookie’s outcome, often making it less rich or altering the softness.

How important is the cornstarch in this recipe?

Cornstarch is a secret superstar—it helps soften the gluten in the flour, contributing to a tender, cakey crumb that makes these cookies so irresistibly soft.

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate chips will make the cookies sweeter and creamier. Just keep in mind it may alter the balance of sweetness, so you might want to reduce the sugar slightly if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for making larger cookies?

You can definitely make larger cookies, but keep in mind they may need additional baking time and cooling to ensure they maintain that softbatch texture throughout.

Final Thoughts

If you love cookies that feel like a warm hug in every bite, the Softbatch Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a simple twist on a classic favorite that leads to unbelievably soft, flavorful cookies that melt gently in your mouth. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to bake up some sweet magic that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

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