Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze Recipe

Imagine biting into a soft, delicate cookie, the cream cheese inducing a melt-in-your-mouth experience, swiftly followed by the velvety, chocolatey richness of Nutella glaze. This is the delightful sensation you experience with soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze. A perfect treat for any occasion, these cookies are sure to satiate your sweet cravings with their irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

Photos of Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in a home pantry. However, you might need to purchase a block of cream cheese and Nutella if you don't typically stock them. Also, keep in mind that this recipe calls for a high-quality unsalted butter, which can make a difference in the final taste and texture of the cookies. Lastly, don't forget the hazelnuts. They're not just for garnishing; they impart a lovely crunch and great flavor that complements the Nutella glaze perfectly.

Ingredients for Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze

All purpose flour: This is the base of the cookies and gives them structure.

Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps in creating a tender texture.

Block cream cheese: Provides a soft, creamy texture to the cookies.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies. You can adjust the amount as per your preference.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warm, sweet flavor.

Almond extract: Imparts a nutty, sweet flavor that complements the cream cheese and Nutella.

Confectioner's sugar: Used in the glaze, it dissolves easily and adds sweetness.

Nutella: Gives the glaze a smooth, chocolate-hazelnut flavor.

Heavy cream: Adds a creamy richness to the Nutella glaze.

Salt: A pinch in the glaze balances the sweetness.

Hazelnuts: Used for garnishing, they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

One reader, Biddy Waller says:

These soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze are a game-changer! The cookies are incredibly soft and the Nutella glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness. The hazelnuts on top give a delightful crunch. This recipe is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Biddy Waller

Techniques Required for Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze

How to prepare the dough: Mixing the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until combined and rolling the dough to a ¼-inch thickness.

How to chill the dough: Stacking the rolled dough with parchment paper between the pieces and refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

How to cut the cookies: Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the chilled dough into shapes.

How to make the nutella glaze: Whisking together confectioner's sugar, nutella, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until creamy and smooth.

How to decorate the cookies: Spreading the nutella glaze on each cooled cookie and decorating with hazelnuts if desired.

How To Make Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze

Another sugar cookie that you’ll love. This time, it’s cream cheese cookies made from the softest sugar cookies with almond extract and Nutella glaze.

Preparation: 3 hours 30 minutes

Cooking: 13 minutes

Additional Time: 2 minutes

Total: 3 hours 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupsall purpose flour,spoon & leveled
1½tspbaking powder
½tspsalt
1cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
4ozblock cream cheese,softened to room temperature
1cupgranulated sugar
1large egg,at room temperature
2tsppure vanilla extract
1tspalmond extract

For the Nutella Glaze:

2cupsconfectioner’s sugar
⅓cupnutella
¼cupheavy cream,or milk
1tsppure vanilla extract
pinchsalt
½cuphazelnuts,chopped, for garnish, optional

Instructions

Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together until combined. Set aside.
In a large bowl using a hand-held or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and cream cheese together on high speed until completely smooth and creamy for about 2 minutes.
Add the granulated sugar and beat on medium-high speed until fluffy and light in color. Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts and beat on high speed until combined for about 1 minute.
Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed to combine.
At low speed, slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined. Make sure you flour your hands, work surface, and rolling pin.
Divide the dough into 2 equal parts. Roll each portion out onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured silicone baking mat to about ¼-inch thickness.
Stack the pieces, with parchment paper between the two, onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 2 days.
If chilling for more than a couple of hours, cover the top dough piece with a single piece of parchment paper.
Once chilled, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Remove one of the dough pieces from the refrigerator and using a heart cookie cutter, cut into shapes. Re-roll the remaining dough and continue cutting until all is used. Repeat with 2nd dough piece.
Arrange cookies on baking sheets 3 inches apart. Bake for 11 to 12 minutes until very lightly browned around the edges.
Make sure you rotate the baking sheet halfway through bake time. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Glaze:

In a medium bowl using a hand-held mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat all of the ingredients together on medium-high speed until creamy and smooth for about 2 minutes.
Taste. Add another pinch of salt if the frosting is too sweet. Spread on each cooled cookie then decorate with hazelnuts, if desired.
Nutella glaze will set at room temperature after 3 to 4 hours and even quicker in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
Cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Calories: 177.07kcal
Fat: 8.99g
Saturated Fat: 5.15g
Trans Fat: 0.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.69g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.48g
Carbohydrates: 22.46g
Fiber: 0.61g
Sugar: 13.87g
Protein: 1.95g
Cholesterol: 24.45mg
Sodium: 93.97mg
Calcium: 27.44mg
Potassium: 45.02mg
Iron: 0.76mg
Vitamin A: 63.72µg
Vitamin C: 0.13mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze

When rolling out your cookie dough, ensure it is evenly spread to about ¼-inch thickness. This will help your cookies bake evenly and maintain their shape. If the dough is too thick in some areas, those parts will not cook through properly, resulting in a doughy texture. Conversely, if it's too thin in some areas, those parts may burn. Using a rolling pin with adjustable rings can help achieve an even thickness.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze

Prepare the dough: Make the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. This will save time on the day you want to bake the cookies.

Use parchment paper: Roll out the cookie dough between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Chill the glaze: While the cookies are baking, prepare the Nutella glaze and chill it in the refrigerator. This will allow it to set faster when you're ready to decorate the cookies.

Bake in batches: If your oven can accommodate only one baking sheet at a time, bake the cookies in batches to ensure even cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: This substitution is suitable for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It provides a gluten-free alternative while maintaining a similar texture and structure in the cookies.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, and it adds a subtle coconut flavor to the cookies. It also works well in baking and provides a moist and tender texture.
block cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese. It adds a tangy flavor and moisture to the cookies while reducing the overall fat content.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener that can be used as a 1:1 replacement for granulated sugar. It has a lower glycemic index and adds a hint of caramel flavor to the cookies.
nutella - Substitute with chocolate hazelnut spread: Chocolate hazelnut spread is a suitable alternative to Nutella and provides a similar rich and creamy flavor for the glaze.
confectioner's sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: Powdered erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that can be used as a sugar-free alternative in the glaze. It provides sweetness without the added calories of confectioner's sugar.
hazelnuts - Substitute with chopped almonds: Chopped almonds can be used as a substitute for hazelnuts, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the cookies.

Presentation Ideas for Soft Cream Cheese Cookies

Elevate the cookie size: Present the cookies as a substantial dessert item, showcasing their decadent and indulgent nature.
Artistic glaze application: Drizzle the Nutella glaze in an artistic and visually appealing manner, ensuring each cookie is adorned with a glossy and enticing finish.
Incorporate hazelnut garnish: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top of the glazed cookies to add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall visual appeal.
Arrange on a sleek platter: Place the cookies on a sleek, modern platter, allowing the rich colors of the glaze and the hazelnut garnish to stand out against the backdrop.
Accompany with a dessert wine: Serve the cookies alongside a carefully selected dessert wine to complement their flavors and provide a sophisticated pairing option for the esteemed diners.

Essential Tools for Making Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze

Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, typically made of metal loops or wires.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough for baking.
Cookie cutter: A tool used to cut out shapes from cookie dough before baking.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
Hand-held mixer: A small electric kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
Stand mixer: A larger, more powerful electric mixer with a stand and mixing bowl, used for mixing and kneading dough and batter.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking.
Silicone baking mat: A reusable non-stick baking surface made of silicone, used as an alternative to parchment paper.
Wire rack: A metal rack used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cream Cheese Cookies

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze:

Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft and fresh, place a slice of bread in the container, which will help absorb any excess moisture and prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.
Refrigerating: If you prefer a firmer texture or live in a hot and humid environment, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Freezing the dough:
- Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the bag or container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight, then roll out and cut into shapes as directed in the recipe.
Freezing the baked cookies (unglazed):
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Label the bag or container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To serve, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then glaze as directed in the recipe.
Freezing the baked cookies (glazed):
- Place the glazed cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until the glaze is solid, about 2 hours.
- Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the bag or container with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
- To serve, unwrap the cookies and thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour before consuming.

How To Reheat Leftover Cream Cheese Cookies

To reheat leftover soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the Nutella glaze is slightly melted. This method will help restore the cookies' soft and chewy texture while keeping the glaze intact.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cookies, as this may cause the Nutella glaze to become too runny or the cookies to become too soft.
If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, you can reheat the cookies in a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and the edges are slightly crisp.
For a quick and easy method, you can also reheat the cookies in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cookies are warmed through and the Nutella glaze is slightly melted.
If you want to maintain the soft and chewy texture of the cookies without melting the Nutella glaze too much, you can wrap them in aluminum foil before reheating. This will help trap the moisture and prevent the cookies from drying out. Place the wrapped cookies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

Interesting Fact About Cream Cheese Cookies

The recipe for soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and Nutella. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. They are also a great option for gifting to friends and family. The addition of hazelnuts in the glaze adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the cookies. These cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves chocolate and cream cheese desserts.

Is Making Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze recipe is relatively high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields a large batch, making it suitable for a family. The use of basic pantry staples and the option to omit or substitute certain ingredients based on availability makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, depending on the availability and pricing of ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze Healthy?

The soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze recipe is a delightful treat, but it's not the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe contains a significant amount of butter, cream cheese, and sugar, which are high in saturated fat and calories.
The Nutella glaze is made with confectioner's sugar and Nutella, both of which are high in sugar and calories.
The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
The hazelnuts provide some healthy fats and nutrients, but they are used sparingly as a garnish.

While indulging in these cookies occasionally is fine, regular consumption may contribute to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough and glaze, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and butter to lower the saturated fat content
Incorporate more hazelnuts into the cookie dough for added healthy fats, fiber, and protein
Experiment with alternative glaze options, such as a dark chocolate drizzle or a Greek yogurt-based glaze, to reduce sugar and calories

Editor's Opinion on This Cream Cheese Cookie Recipe

The soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze recipe is a delightful combination of rich, creamy flavors and a perfect balance of sweetness. The addition of cream cheese adds a luscious texture to the cookies, while the Nutella glaze provides a decadent finish. The use of almond extract adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the hazelnuts beautifully. The recipe's detailed instructions ensure that the cookies turn out perfectly tender and flavorful. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful treat for any occasion, and the cookies are sure to impress with their irresistible taste and elegant presentation.

Enhance Your Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful mashed potato dish with a hint of roasted garlic for a comforting and savory side to complement the sweet cream cheese cookies.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Grill up some juicy and caramelized pineapple slices for a refreshing and tropical side that pairs perfectly with the rich and nutty flavors of the cream cheese cookies.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Whip up a tangy and sweet balsamic glaze to drizzle over roasted Brussels sprouts, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your meal alongside the soft cream cheese cookies.

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Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and healthy dessert option that's perfect for a hot summer day.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of crispy toasted baguette slices. This refreshing and flavorful dish is perfect for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish featuring tender chicken and a rich, savory Alfredo sauce. Pair with your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a flavorful and colorful stir fry with tender strips of beef and an assortment of fresh vegetables. Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a delicious and nutritious dinner option.

Why trust this Soft Cream Cheese Cookies with Nutella Glaze Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its perfect balance of cream cheese and Nutella. The combination of vanilla extract and almond extract adds a unique depth of flavor. The careful instructions ensure the cookies turn out just right, and the hazelnuts on top provide a satisfying crunch. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, and indulge in the irresistible soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze.

Want to share your experience making these soft cream cheese cookies with Nutella glaze or discuss variations on the recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

Can I make the dough in advance and freeze it?

Absolutely! You can make the dough in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and cutting the cookies.

Can I skip the almond extract in the cookie dough?

Yes, you can omit the almond extract if you prefer. The cookies will still have a delicious flavor from the vanilla extract and the nutella glaze.

Can I substitute the hazelnuts with another type of nut for the decoration?

Certainly! You can use chopped almonds, pecans, or any other nuts you prefer as a substitute for the hazelnuts in the decoration.

How long does the nutella glaze take to set?

The nutella glaze will set at room temperature after 3 to 4 hours, or you can speed up the process by placing the cookies in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.