There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the home, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia like a cozy hug from Grandma. Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies remind me of sunny afternoons spent in my mother’s kitchen, laughter mixing with the enticing scent of sweet preserves and rich cream cheese. These delightful cookies tell stories of love, family gatherings, and the simple joys found in ensuring every treat is made with a sprinkle of care.
Why make this recipe? Well, dear friends, these cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they are a celebration of connection. With a soft, buttery center and a delicious apricot filling, each bite feels like a warm embrace. Whether you’re looking to please a crowd at a family gathering or simply wish to treat yourself on a quiet afternoon, these cookies promise both comfort and happiness.
How to make Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tsp. lemon rind (grated)
- 4 1/2 cups UNBLEACHED all-purpose flour (bleached flour toughens baked goods)
- 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
- 1 cup apricot preserves (or as needed)
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar (as needed)
Directions:
Start by grabbing your trusty electric mixer and combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cream cheese until they blend together like lifelong friends. Next, drop in the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon rind, letting those bright, zesty notes join the party. Now, little by little, fold in the unbleached all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing until everything is just right. Don’t forget to pop that dough in the fridge for at least an hour; it’s like a little spa retreat for the cookies to chill out.
Once the hour has passed, take a handful of dough and shape tablespoonfuls into delightful little balls, placing them gently on a cookie sheet that you’ve already sprayed with a bit of cooking spray. Here comes the fun part! With your thumb or finger, make sweet little indents in the center of each ball and fill them with a spoonful of apricot preserves. The joy in this simple step is knowing that each cookie will hold a nugget of surprise and sweetness.
Now, it’s time for the oven to work its magic! Preheat it to 350°F, and let your cookies bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. Make sure to rotate those cookie sheets every six minutes, ensuring every side gets that perfect golden brown. Once they are baked to perfection, let them cool a bit before sprinkling with confectioner’s sugar like a dusting of fairy magic.
How to serve Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies? Well, these cookies are delightful on their own, but I find they shine best when accompanied by a hot cup of tea or coffee. Picture yourself on the porch, the sweet smell of spring in the air, savoring one—or two—of these delectable bites while sharing stories with dear friends and family.
How to store these scrumptious cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll last for about a week, if you can resist the temptation! If you like to keep things extra fresh, you could also pop them in the freezer for a little longer enjoyment. Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before you dig in.
Tips to make Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies? Don’t be shy with the apricot preserves; feel free to make those centers as generous as your heart desires! Additionally, make sure to use unbleached flour—trust me, it makes all the difference when it comes to texture. And remember, the more love you pour into these cookies, the sweeter they will be!
Variations? If apricots aren’t your favorite (though I can’t imagine why!), you can easily swap in other fruit preserves like raspberry or peach. Each variation adds a lovely twist and keeps the joy of this recipe alive.
FAQs:
-
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Absolutely! While it may slightly change the texture, you’ll still enjoy a delicious cookie. -
Can I bake these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake them a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container as mentioned earlier. -
What if I don’t have enough apricot preserves?
No problem! Mix it with another type of preserve to create a unique flavor, and don’t skimp on the joy!
These Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies are more than just a recipe; they carry the love and joy of togetherness in every bite. So, gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and let laughter and stories flow as freely as that warm cookie dough. After all, food shared is love multiplied, and what better way to spread warmth than through delightful bites? Happy baking!
Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and cream cheese until well blended.
- Add in the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon rind, and mix until combined.
- Gradually fold in the flour and baking powder until just mixed.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least one hour.
- Shape tablespoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on a greased cookie sheet.
- Make indents in the center of each ball using your thumb and fill with apricot preserves.
- Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, rotating the sheets every six minutes for even browning.
- Once golden brown, remove from the oven and allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.