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Apricot Cream Cheese Cookies

Delightful cookies with a soft crumb and a sweet apricot preserve center, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy treat.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (softened) Make sure butter is softened for best results.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 8 oz pkg. cream cheese (softened) Ensure cream cheese is softened.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 tsp lemon rind (grated) Grate fresh lemon peel for best flavor.
Dry Ingredients
  • 4 1/2 cups UNBLEACHED all-purpose flour Use unbleached flour for a tender cookie.
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder Ensure it's fresh for proper rising.
Filling and Topping
  • 1 cup apricot preserves Use as needed for filling.
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar For dusting on top.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth.
  2. Add in the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon rind to the mixture and blend well.
  3. Gently fold in the unbleached flour and baking powder until fully combined.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least an hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Shape tablespoonfuls of dough into balls and place on lightly greased cookie sheets.
  3. Make a small indent in the center of each ball and fill it with apricot preserves (1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon).
  4. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, rotating the cookie sheets every 6 minutes for even baking.
  5. Allow cookies to cool and dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week. Can also substitute apricot preserves with other fruit varieties like raspberry or peach.