Why You’ll Love this Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe
These Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of rhubarb with the creamy richness of cream cheese. The cookies are soft, chewy, and have a beautiful swirl that makes them visually appealing. Perfect for spring gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies will surely impress your family and friends. The unique flavor profile and delightful texture make them a must-try for any cookie lover!
What You’ll Need for Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies
To create these delicious cookies, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to make a delightful treat.
Complete Ingredients List
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped and cooked
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for drizzling)
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some substitutions you can consider:
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- For gluten-free cookies, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
How to Make Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies
Making these cookies is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these steps to create your delicious Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies.
Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb
Start by cooking the chopped rhubarb in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of sugar to sweeten it slightly. Cook until the rhubarb is soft and mushy, about 5-7 minutes. Let it cool before using.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated and brown sugars, mixing until well combined.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until everything is well blended.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Finally, fold in the cooked rhubarb gently to create a swirl effect.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies
These cookies are best served warm or at room temperature. Here are some tips for serving:
How to Serve Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies
Place the cookies on a decorative plate. For an elegant touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. You can also drizzle a little extra cream cheese frosting on top for added sweetness.
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storing & Preserving Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips.
Best Storage Methods
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them.
Reheating or Freezing Tips
If you have leftover cookies, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature.
Tips for Perfect Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies Every Time
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.
Helpful Tricks for Success
For the best results, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors.
Fun Variations of Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies
Get creative with these fun variations to make the recipe your own!
Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
Dietary-Friendly Adjustments
To make these cookies vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream cheese. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
What If My Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies Doesn’t Turn Out Right?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough before baking. If they’re too dry, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
What Ingredients Can I Swap?
You can swap out the rhubarb for other fruits like strawberries or blueberries, depending on your preference.
Print
Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Rhubarb Swirl Cream Cheese Cookies that combine tangy rhubarb with creamy cream cheese for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup rhubarb, chopped and cooked
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the rhubarb by cooking it in a saucepan with sugar until soft.
- Cream the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
- Add the granulated and brown sugars, mixing until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla.
- Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl and gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the cooked rhubarb gently to create a swirl effect.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For dairy-free, use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Rhubarb, Cream Cheese, Cookies, Dessert, Baking