Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the joy of summer to your kitchen, these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are just what you need! They combine the classic flavors of strawberry cheesecake into a soft, chewy cookie that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).

What makes this recipe truly special is the creamy cheesecake filling nestled within each cookie and the burst of fresh strawberries in every bite. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’ve become my go-to dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: These cookies come together quickly and require simple steps that anyone can follow.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike adore these treats! They make for a fun baking project with little ones.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making baking day stress-free.
• Deliciously versatile: The flavor combinations are endless—feel free to customize them to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies use simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
• 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 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 experiment with different flavors or ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Add chocolate chips: For an extra indulgent twist, mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the cookie dough!
• Try different fruits: Substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities.
• Swap the filling: Create a lemon cheesecake filling by mixing lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture for a zesty flavor.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Begin by combining the cold cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract in a bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth. This step is crucial as it creates the rich filling that makes these cookies so special. Once mixed well, set aside while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In another large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Then add in your egg and vanilla extract. Mixing them well ensures your cookies will be soft and buttery. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until combined.

Step 3: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the finely diced strawberries into your cookie dough. This step adds bursts of fruity goodness throughout your cookies. Be careful not to overmix; you want those lovely strawberry pieces intact.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cookies

Using a scoop or spoon, take some dough and form it into small balls. Flatten each ball slightly before placing about one teaspoon of the cream cheese filling in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around it to form a ball again. This technique helps keep that creamy filling hidden inside while baking.

Step 5: Roll & Bake

Roll each cookie ball in granulated sugar before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 11 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Baking them just right is key to keeping them chewy!

Step 6: Cool & Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, allow your cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Enjoy these strawberry cheesecake cookies warm or at room temperature—either way, they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Making the perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies is a breeze when you keep these handy tips in mind!

• Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures your cheesecake filling is smooth and creamy, making it easier to mix and pipe into the cookies.

• Chill the dough: After mixing your cookie dough, refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

• Choose ripe strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries not only add the best flavor but also give that beautiful jammy texture in each bite. Look for berries that are bright red with no white spots.

• Roll in sugar before baking: Rolling the cookie dough balls in sugar before baking gives them a delightful crunch on the outside and enhances their sweetness beautifully.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

These delightful cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, presenting these cookies can elevate your experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the strawberry flavor.

• Fresh mint leaves: Placing a few mint leaves alongside your cookies not only adds a pop of color but also complements their fruity flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The rich and creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these cookies, creating a delightful contrast that enhances their flavors.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, and kiwi complements the strawberry flavor while adding freshness to your table.

• Lemonade or iced tea: A glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea provides a refreshing drink that balances the sweetness of the cookies with its tartness.

• Yogurt parfaits: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh berries makes for a wholesome side dish that pairs well with these decadent cookies, offering a nice textural contrast.

Enjoy sharing (or keeping) your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies! They’re sure to be a hit wherever you serve them.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a fantastic treat to prepare in advance, making them perfect for meal prep or special occasions. You can enjoy them fresh or store them for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies, where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use frozen strawberries for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using them in the recipe for the best texture.

What makes Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies different from regular cookies?

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies contain a creamy cheesecake filling that adds richness and flavor, along with fresh strawberries mixed into the dough. They truly embody the essence of strawberry cheesecake!

How should I store my Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for short-term storage. For long-term, consider freezing them as described above!

Can I substitute the cream cheese in Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives if you’re looking for a non-dairy option. This will still give you that lovely cheesecake flavor without any animal-derived products.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are truly special with their soft, chewy texture and delightful bursts of strawberry flavor. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I enjoyed sharing this recipe with you! Whether it’s for a gathering or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!