Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies: The Ultimate Tropical Delight Recipe

Name: Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 0.5 cup salted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.75 cup crushed pineapple, drained ((reserve juice)); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 to 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice

Introduction to Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies

Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. These cookies combine the rich, creamy flavor of cream cheese with the sweet, tangy burst of pineapple. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them as a sweet snack, they are sure to be a hit!

A Personal Story Behind My Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies Journey

I first discovered Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies at a family gathering, and they quickly became a favorite among my loved ones. The combination of flavors reminded me of sunny days spent on the beach, making these cookies a nostalgic treat. I decided to recreate the recipe at home, and now, every time I bake them, I’m transported back to those joyful moments.

What Makes This Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its unique flavor profile. The creamy texture of cream cheese melds beautifully with the juicy sweetness of crushed pineapple, creating a cookie that is both soft and flavorful. The added glaze made from powdered sugar and pineapple juice gives these cookies an extra touch of sweetness and a lovely shine. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for bakers of all skill levels.

The Full Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes on medium speed. This step is crucial for achieving that light texture, so be patient!
Add sugar and cream together for another minute until well combined.
Add the vanilla extract and egg; beat until fully combined. Don’t forget to scrape the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is mixed in.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed ingredients until fully mixed. This helps prevent flour from flying everywhere!
Stir in the drained pineapple until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Use a 2-tablespoon cookie dough scoop to form balls of dough. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. This will help them bake evenly.
For smoother cookies, chill the dough balls in the freezer for 5-10 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better while baking. You can also roll them in your hands to form smooth balls if desired.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until puffed and the surface appears matte. You’ll know they are ready when the bottom edges start to brown slightly.
Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and enough reserved pineapple juice to achieve a drizzling consistency glaze. Be careful not to make it too runny!
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies or dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze for a lovely finish.
Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes on top of the cookies before serving. This will give a nice, glossy finish to your cookies!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further! Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a tropical dessert. You can also add shredded coconut to the cookie dough for a fun twist. Another idea is to sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the glaze for added crunch. Enjoy them at parties, as a snack, or even as a sweet treat after dinner!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Cream Cheese Cookies

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it and drain it well to remove excess moisture.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What can I do with leftover pineapple juice?
Use it to sweeten smoothies, or add it to marinades for meat or fish, or simply enjoy it as a refreshing drink!