Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Quick & Dreamy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Sweet strawberry cheesecake cookies blend classic dessert magic into bite-sized treats that steal hearts instantly.

Creamy cream cheese mingles with fresh strawberry chunks, creating unexpected flavor bursts.

Soft, pillowy textures invite temptation with each delicate morsel.

These cookies carry the essence of a beloved classic in a portable, irresistible form.

Bakers of all skill levels can craft these delightful morsels without complicated techniques.

Summer picnics and casual gatherings deserve something special like these delectable little bites.

Grab a mixing bowl and let’s make something extraordinary that will vanish from plates in moments.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, whip together:
  • Cream cheese
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until the mixture becomes silky smooth and free of lumps. Use an electric mixer for the best results, ensuring a light and airy texture.

Step 2: Chill Filling Dollops

Take a parchment-lined baking sheet and carefully drop small teaspoon-sized portions of the cheesecake mixture onto the surface. Spread them out evenly to prevent sticking. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the filling set for at least 30 minutes. The goal is to create firm, cold nuggets that will hold their shape when incorporated into the cookie dough.

Step 3: Create Cookie Base

Gather ingredients for the cookie dough:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Unsalted butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, then gradually fold them into the wet mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheesecake Filling

Gently fold the frozen cheesecake dollops into the cookie dough. Be careful not to break the filling pieces. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough for a balanced flavor in each bite.

Step 5: Shape and Chill Cookies

Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Place the sheet in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. The centers should look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool and Garnish

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate for extra indulgence.

  • Freeze Filling Perfectly: Use a small cookie scoop or melon baller for uniform, precise cream cheese dollops that freeze evenly and maintain consistent shape.
  • Prevent Sticky Mess: Place parchment paper between frozen cream cheese balls to stop them from sticking together during storage or handling.
  • Chill for Success: Allow cream cheese filling to freeze completely for at least 30 minutes, ensuring it remains stable when incorporated into cookie dough.
  • Temperature Matters: Work with cold cream cheese filling to maintain structure and prevent spreading during baking, guaranteeing a neat, professional-looking cookie.
  • Customize Flavor Boost: Experiment with different extract variations like almond or lemon to add unique dimension to the cream cheese filling.

Keeping Cheesecake Cookies Fresh Longer

  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Place cookies in a freezer-safe container, lasting up to 3 weeks. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap for best preservation.
  • Remove frozen cookies from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying their soft, creamy texture.
  • Keep cookies away from direct sunlight and heat sources to preserve their delicate cream cheese filling and delightful flavor.

Pairing Ideas for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

  • Blend fresh strawberries, sparkling water, and a touch of mint for a light, crisp drink that complements the creamy cookie filling.
  • Scoop premium vanilla bean ice cream as a cool, smooth companion that enhances the strawberry cheesecake cookie's rich flavors.
  • Pour chilled champagne mixed with a splash of strawberry liqueur to create an elegant, celebratory pairing that elevates the dessert's delicate sweetness.
  • Add a small quenelle of tart lemon sorbet to cut through the cookie's richness and provide a bright, palate-cleansing contrast.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Swap regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for celiac and gluten-sensitive bakers.
  • Vegan Alternative: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese, use coconut oil instead of butter, and select plant-based egg substitute to create a cruelty-free cookie option.
  • Low-Sugar Adaptation: Substitute powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining sweet flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free Modification: Use coconut cream cheese alternative and margarine instead of traditional dairy ingredients, perfect for lactose-intolerant individuals or those avoiding dairy products.

Reasons to Try Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

  • The creamy cheesecake filling nestled inside soft cookies creates a unique twist that will impress family and friends at gatherings.
  • Prepare the frozen cheesecake filling in advance, making these cookies a convenient option for busy bakers who want to plan ahead.
  • Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean even novice bakers can successfully create these delectable cookies without stress.

Ingredients for Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Cream Cheese Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Soft and tangy base for the creamy filling, best when at room temperature.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, spreadable texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides warm, classic flavor that complements the cream cheese.
Base and Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Creates the cookie structure and provides a tender crumb.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and become light and soft.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Wet Ingredients and Add-Ins:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, best when softened.
  • Egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to the cookie's structure.
  • Strawberries: Fresh or freeze-dried provide a fruity burst and natural sweetness.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and deep caramel-like flavor to the cookies.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides additional sweetness and helps with cookie spreading.
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Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe


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4.5 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 34 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sweet, buttery strawberry cheesecake cookies blend classic dessert flavors into irresistible bite-sized treats. Creamy cheesecake notes dance with fresh strawberry chunks, creating a delightful cookie experience you’ll instantly adore.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into small pieces
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

Cookie Base Components:

  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Whip the cream cheese mixture until silky and uniform, blending powdered sugar and vanilla extract thoroughly to create a smooth, delectable filling.
  2. Carefully portion the cream cheese mixture into petite dollops using a teaspoon, placing each precisely on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Transfer the prepared baking sheet to the freezer, allowing the cream cheese morsels to solidify and set for a minimum of 30 minutes, ensuring they maintain a firm, structured consistency.
  4. While the cream cheese centers are chilling, prepare the surrounding cookie dough, ensuring it’s chilled and manageable for precise shaping.
  5. Remove the frozen cream cheese centers from the freezer, working quickly to maintain their solid state.
  6. Encase each frozen cream cheese dollop completely within a protective layer of cookie dough, sealing the edges meticulously to prevent leakage during baking.
  7. Gently arrange the assembled cookies on a fresh parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them adequately to allow proper expansion during the baking process.
  8. Transfer the cookie sheet to a preheated oven, baking until the edges turn a delicate golden brown and the surfaces acquire a slightly crisp appearance.
  9. Extract the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few moments before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling.
  10. Once cooled, dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or garnish with fresh strawberry pieces for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

  • Chill cream cheese mixture thoroughly to prevent spreading during baking, ensuring a clean, defined filling inside each cookie.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to create a smoother, more consistent cream cheese filling that blends effortlessly.
  • Opt for full-fat cream cheese for richer flavor and better texture, avoiding low-fat or reduced-fat versions that can become watery.
  • Freeze the cream cheese filling for precisely 30 minutes to maintain its shape and prevent melting when wrapped inside the cookie dough.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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