Delicious Blueberry Orange Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the blend of tart blueberries and refreshing orange in a sweet treat. These delightful cookies combine cream cheese for an extra layer of flavor, making them a scrumptious addition to any dessert spread. Let’s dive into making these delicious blueberry orange cream cheese cookies that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
My grandmother used to bake these cookies every spring, just as blueberries were coming into season. Growing up, I would eagerly await the moment when I could join her in the kitchen, rolling dough and sneaking a few blueberries when she wasn’t looking. The aroma of orange zest and baking cookies would fill the entire house. It’s a recipe that has stayed in our family, loved for its simplicity and the cherished memories it invokes. Now, it’s my pleasure to share it with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because of its perfect balance of rich, creamy texture with the refreshing zing of citrus. These cookies are easy to prepare, making them ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The cream cheese adds subtle tanginess, complemented by juicy blueberries and aromatic orange zest, creating a cookie that’s delightful in texture and flavor. Plus, they’re versatile—perfect as a breakfast treat or a midday snack.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet delightful combination of ingredients. Ensure to use fresh, plump blueberries for the best flavor. If oranges are not in season, high-quality orange extract can substitute for fresh zest. For those who prefer gluten-free options, a gluten-free baking mix works as a one-for-one substitution with the all-purpose flour. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before starting to guarantee a smooth mix.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of cookies after baking.
Step 2
In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, then add orange zest and vanilla extract, stirring until full integrated.
Step 3
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 4
Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them. This will ensure bursts of blueberry flavor in every bite.
Step 5
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Storage Options
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a resealable plastic freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and heat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh them before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative. You can also change the fruit flavors by swapping blueberries with raspberries or cranberries, and using lemon zest instead of orange. Adding white chocolate chips can also bring a delightful sweetness and contrast to the tangy cream cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe? Yes, frozen blueberries can be used if fresh ones are not available. However, do not thaw them before use, as this can lead to excess moisture and cause the cookies to become soggy. Mix them into the batter straight from the freezer to ensure the best result.
What is the best way to measure flour for baking? The most accurate way to measure flour is to use a kitchen scale. If you don’t have one, fluff up the flour in its container first, then spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing the flour too densely, which can alter the texture of your cookies.
Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, to make this recipe vegan, substitute both the cream cheese and egg with plant-based alternatives — such as a chia egg (1 tbsp chia seeds + 2.5 tbsp water) and vegan cream cheese. Ensure all other ingredients used are also vegan-certified.
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Delicious Blueberry Orange Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar granulated
- 1 cup butter softened
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup blueberries fresh or frozen
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth.
- Blend in the vanilla extract and orange zest. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
