1-Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

2-Beat the cream cheese and butter together at high speed until they are fluffy and smooth, which takes about 1-2 minutes.

3-Add the 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar to the mixture and beat until fully incorporated and fluffy, for another 1-2 minutes.

4-Then, beat in the 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for 1 minute.

5-In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

6-Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and stir just until incorporated, avoiding over-mixing.

7-Drop rounded tablespoons of the sticky batter about 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets. Optionally, refrigerate the batter for 10-20 minutes to firm it up.

8-Bake for 10-11 minutes, until the cookies are light in color, not browned, and just beginning to brown on the bottom.

9-Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar or dip in melted chocolate after cooling.