Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful combination of two beloved desserts: cookies and cheesecake. This recipe brings together the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries, all in a convenient, easy-to-make cookie form. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Sugar and Egg Yolk: Mix in the granulated sugar and egg yolk until fully incorporated.
- Add the Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and well mixed.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- Chop the Strawberries: Finely chop the fresh strawberries and place them in a small saucepan.
- Cook the Strawberry Mixture: Add the granulated sugar and cornstarch to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries break down. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool the Filling: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the strawberry filling cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookie Dough: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Create Indentations: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Fill the Indentations: Spoon a small amount of the cheesecake filling into each indentation, followed by a small dollop of the strawberry filling.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cookies to remain soft and chewy.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Use Fresh Strawberries
For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing the cookie dough can result in tough cookies. Mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined.
Chill the Dough
If the cookie dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping and baking.
Store Properly
Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional value per cookie (assuming the recipe makes 24 cookies):
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 2g
Prep Time and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Perfect Balance of Flavors
These cookies offer a perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of the cookie dough complements the tanginess of the cheesecake filling, while the strawberry filling adds a fresh, fruity note.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies are a great choice. They’re easy to transport and are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Fun to Make
This recipe is a fun project to do with kids or friends. The process of making the indentations and filling them is enjoyable and rewarding.
Variations of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Add a chocolate twist to your cookies by mixing in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the baked cookies for an extra indulgent treat.
Lemon Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
For a zesty variation, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cookie dough and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to the cheesecake filling. This will add a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Gluten-Free Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Serving Suggestions
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
Serve your strawberry cheesecake cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. The cold, creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with the soft, chewy cookies.
With a Cup of Tea or Coffee
Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. The flavors of the cookies complement both beverages beautifully.
As a Gift
Package these cookies in a pretty box or tin and give them as a gift to friends, family, or coworkers. They make a thoughtful and delicious present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can substitute other fruits for the strawberries. Raspberries, blueberries, or even chopped peaches would work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the sugar and cornstarch amounts as needed.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough and cheesecake filling ahead of time. Store the dough and filling in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, make sure the dough is well chilled before baking. You can also try using a higher-sided baking sheet, which can help contain the cookies’ shape.
What should I do if my cheesecake filling is too runny?
If your cheesecake filling is too runny, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before using. This will help it firm up and make it easier to spoon into the cookie indentations.
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful and unique treat that combines the best of both worlds: cookies and cheesecake. With their rich, creamy filling and sweet strawberry topping, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the delicious taste of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies and share the joy with your loved ones!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Sugar and Egg Yolk: Mix in the granulated sugar and egg yolk until fully incorporated.
- Add the Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and well mixed.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
- Chop the Strawberries: Finely chop the fresh strawberries and place them in a small saucepan.
- Cook the Strawberry Mixture: Add the granulated sugar and cornstarch to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries break down. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool the Filling: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the strawberry filling cool completely.
Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookie Dough: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Create Indentations: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball.
- Fill the Indentations: Spoon a small amount of the cheesecake filling into each indentation, followed by a small dollop of the strawberry filling.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cookies to remain soft and chewy.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
