Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, let me introduce you to these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies. They are the perfect blend of soft, chewy sugar cookies, bursting with jammy strawberries and filled with creamy vanilla cheesecake goodness. What makes these cookies stand out is their unique combination of flavors and textures; it’s like enjoying a slice of strawberry cheesecake in every bite! Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy family gathering or a casual weeknight treat, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

I love making these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies when I want to impress friends or simply indulge in something sweet. They are not only delicious but also easy to make, allowing you to enjoy the baking process without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With some simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a fun treat that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weekend bake or a special celebration, these cookies fit right in!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of strawberries and cheesecake filling creates an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store.

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
• 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Cookie Dough

• 12 oz (340 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and finely diced
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar, for rolling dough in

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to get creative with different flavors or ingredients!

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Use different fruits: Swap out strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a berry medley.
• Try flavored extracts: Experiment with almond extract or lemon zest to give your cookies a unique twist.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla. Use an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Preparing this filling first is important because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you work on the cookie dough.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

Toss the finely diced strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in another bowl. Let them sit while you make the cookie dough. This step draws out their natural juices and enhances their flavor for your cookies.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In your mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in an egg and add vanilla extract. Then gradually mix in flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Ensuring everything is well mixed helps create that chewy texture we all love!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Fold in the macerated strawberries gently into your cookie dough. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely chunks of fruit throughout your cookies.

Step 5: Fill & Shape Your Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, take a portion of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place about a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center before folding the edges up around it to seal. Rolling each filled ball in sugar gives them that beautiful finish!

Step 6: Bake Them Up!

Preheat your oven and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange your cookie balls on the sheets with enough space between each one. Bake until they’re lightly golden around the edges—a sure sign they’re ready!

Enjoy sharing these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with everyone who deserves a little sweetness in their life!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Making these delightful cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to ensure your strawberry cheesecake cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Use cold cream cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese helps achieve a smooth filling without lumps, making the texture of your cookies even creamier and more enjoyable.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the flavors, resulting in a beautifully soft and chewy cookie.
• Don’t overmix: When combining your dry ingredients with wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture we’re aiming for!
• Adjust baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for longer storage—just make sure they cool completely first!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

These strawberry cheesecake cookies aren’t just delicious; they also look beautiful on any dessert table! Here’s how to present them beautifully for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the cookie’s flavors.
• Fresh strawberry slices: Place a few fresh strawberry slices on top of each cookie or next to them on a plate for a vibrant splash of color and additional fruitiness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the chewy strawberry cheesecake cookies, providing a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds richness without dairy, making it an excellent companion for these cookies while enhancing their cheesecake flavor.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal berries and melons brings a bright, fresh element that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
• Tea or coffee: Serve these cookies alongside your favorite tea or coffee. The warm beverage will complement their rich flavors, making for an enjoyable snack or dessert experience.

Now that you have everything you need to create and serve these scrumptious strawberry cheesecake cookies, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, store them properly, and enjoy delicious treats whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week.
• For best flavor and texture, let the cookies come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until soft and warm.
• Enjoy your gooey cheesecake filling with that freshly baked taste!

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some frequently asked questions about Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies that might help.

Can I use frozen strawberries in my Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dough.

How do I ensure my Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies don’t spread too much?

To prevent spreading, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Additionally, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps maintain their shape.

What makes these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies unique?

These cookies combine the classic flavors of strawberry cheesecake into a fun cookie form. The creamy filling paired with jammy strawberries offers an irresistible treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies as I was when I first made them! Each bite is a delightful mix of chewy cookie and luscious cheesecake filling that’s sure to impress. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to share it with friends and family—there’s plenty of deliciousness to go around. Happy baking!