Delicious strawberry cheesecake cookies fresh out of the oven.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Spread the love

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

It was a sunny afternoon when the idea of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies first crossed my mind. I was on my way back from a local farmer’s market, my tote bag bursting with the juiciest, ripest strawberries of the season. As I looked at those vibrant red berries, I couldn’t help but think of the creamy delight that is cheesecake, my absolute favorite dessert. This whimsical thought led to a lightbulb moment: why not blend the two into a cookie? The results were absolutely magical! Warm, gooey, and rich with flavor, these cookies evoke the essence of summer and family gatherings. They quickly became a family favorite; each bite is a cheerful reminder of good times and sweet memories.

Why make this Recipe

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies bring together two beloved treats in a delightful and easy-to-make way. They are not only quicker to prepare than traditional cheesecake but also portion-controlled, making them perfect for sharing—or savoring all by yourself! Their unique texture combines the chewiness of a cookie with the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake, which is simply irresistible. Plus, they are family-approved, meaning they’re guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters!

Ingredients Section

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for a creamy texture, make sure it’s at room temperature)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (low-fat can be used for a lighter version)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries (use ripe strawberries for best flavor)

Instructions Section (Step-by-Step)

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of the cookies once baked and a perfect shape.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes using an electric mixer.

Step 3

Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 5

In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, taking care not to mash them too much.

Step 6

Using a cookie scoop, drop a tablespoon of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each for spreading. Make a small indention in the center of each dough ball and fill it with about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they should be soft in the center and just slightly browned at the edges.

Step 8

Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips and Variations

  • Do not skip the chilling: For a firmer cookie, chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking can help them hold their shape.
  • Add a twist: Swap strawberries for other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.
  • Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to a week. These cookies also freeze well—just place them in a single layer in a freezer bag!
  • Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet afternoon snack. For a festive gathering, serve them alongside a fresh fruit platter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. When presenting, consider stacking them on a decorative plate, drizzling with a bit of melted chocolate, or adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance.

While these cookies are a treat on their own, serving them with a scoop of ice cream can elevate the experience. The creamy, cold ice cream complements the warm flavors of the cookies.

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and cheesecake filling a day before baking. Just store them in the refrigerator and bake when you’re ready.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! These cookies freeze well. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to two months.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt for a twist! Just remember that the flavor will differ slightly.

How do I prevent the cookies from becoming watery?
Ensure that your strawberries are dry after washing them and not too overripe, as this can release excess moisture during baking.

Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based butter to make them dairy-free. Always check that your sugar is vegan as well.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are more than just a delicious dessert; they are a gentle nod to cherished memories and a celebration of simple pleasures. Each batch brings a sweet aroma that fills the room and leaves everyone eager for a taste. Whether you enjoy them during a quiet afternoon or share them with loved ones at a gathering, they are sure to bring smiles and sweetness to any occasion. I hope you give this recipe a try, share your own family stories, or simply delight in the joy that comes with these delightful cookies. Happy baking!

Delicious strawberry cheesecake cookies fresh out of the oven.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Delightful cookies that combine the rich flavors of cheesecake and the freshness of strawberries in a fun, chewy treat.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baked Goods
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Cookies
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure it's at room temperature for a creamy texture.
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For added flavor.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Low-fat can be used for a lighter version.
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries Use ripe strawberries for best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  5. In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth, then gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Baking
  1. Using a cookie scoop, drop a tablespoon of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making a small indentation in the center to fill with cheesecake filling.
  2. Fill each indentation with about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but should remain soft in the center.
  4. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking for firmer cookies. For variety, swap strawberries with blueberries or raspberries. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Freezes well.

Similar Posts