Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and delicious cookie flavors. Soft, sweet, and bursting with fresh strawberry goodness, these cookies are ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Their unique cream cheese filling makes them stand out, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and rich cream cheese creates an unforgettable taste.
- Easy to Follow: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers at any level.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy evening at home.
- Gluten-Free Option: Easily adaptable for those needing gluten-free ingredients.
- Creamy Filling Surprise: Each bite reveals a delightful cream cheese filling that elevates the cookie experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making these delicious strawberry cheesecake cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Baking pan
- Freezer-safe container
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing the dough and filling quick and easy without tiring your arms.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of cookies from the baking pan.
- Baking pan: A sturdy base for achieving perfectly baked cookies.
Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup cold butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (tightly packed)
- 2 eggs
- 3 ⅔ cups gluten free 1 to 1 flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup finely diced strawberries
- pinch sea salt (optional)
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy and well combined.
Step 2: Prepare Cream Cheese Balls
Scoop out one teaspoon-sized balls of the cream cheese mixture. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking pan. Repeat this step until all the mixture is used. Then, place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
Add cold butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to a clean stand mixer bowl. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes until there are no clumps of butter remaining.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add in the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir until fully combined.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the remaining ingredients except for strawberries. Stir until a thick cookie dough forms.
Step 6: Fold in Strawberries
Carefully fold in the finely diced strawberries into your cookie dough. Once mixed, place the bowl in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan
After chilling, remove your dough from the fridge and take out the cream cheese balls from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 8: Assemble Cookies
Scoop large balls of cookie dough using a spoon. Place them on your lined baking pan. Use your thumb or back of a spoon to create an indent in each ball of dough. Place one ball of cream cheese mixture into each indent.
Step 9: Seal Cookies
Carefully form the dough around each cream cheese ball so it is completely sealed inside.
Step 10: Space Out Cookies
Repeat this process until all cookie dough and cream cheese balls are used, making sure to space them at least three inches apart on the baking pan.
Step 11: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about 11 to 12 minutes or until cookies are just set in the middle.
Step 12: Cool Your Cookies
Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked strawberry cheesecake cookies!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These strawberry cheesecake cookies are not only a treat on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance the experience. Here are some delightful serving ideas to elevate your cookie enjoyment.
With Fresh Strawberries
- Serve your cookies alongside fresh strawberries for a burst of flavor and color that complements the creamy filling.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair your cookies with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm cookie.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over each cookie for an indulgent touch that adds richness and sweetness.
Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverages balance the sweetness of the cookies and create a comforting experience.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top each cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and a luxurious finish.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your strawberry cheesecake cookies on a dessert platter with other treats like brownies and mini cheesecakes for variety at gatherings.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
To ensure that your strawberry cheesecake cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies thick.
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to create a smooth filling that blends easily.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Removing them when they are just set ensures they stay soft and chewy.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour correctly, preventing dense cookies.
- Fold Gently: When incorporating strawberries into the dough, fold gently to avoid breaking them down too much.
- Store Properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
If you’re looking for side dishes that complement strawberry cheesecake cookies, consider these delicious options. They can add variety and balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
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Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, pairs well with the sweet and creamy notes of strawberry cheesecake. -
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
The salty crunch from pretzels balances out the sweetness, making it a perfect snack alongside cookies. -
Lemonade
This refreshing drink offers a zesty contrast that enhances the berry flavors in your cookie. -
Mini Fruit Tarts
These tarts add another layer of fruitiness while keeping things light and airy in texture. -
Yogurt Parfaits
Layering yogurt with granola and strawberries creates a delightful breakfast option that echoes cookie flavors nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making strawberry cheesecake cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
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Skipping the Cream Cheese Softening: Not letting your cream cheese soften can lead to lumps in your filling. Always allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing.
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Overmixing the Cookie Dough: Mixing your dough too long can make the cookies tough. Blend until just combined for a soft, chewy cookie.
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Not Chilling the Dough: Failing to chill the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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Ignoring Baking Times: Overbaking can dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are just set in the middle.
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Using Cold Eggs: Cold eggs can affect the texture of your cookie dough. Use eggs at room temperature for better incorporation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Place parchment paper between layers for easier separation when frozen.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individually on a plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making strawberry cheesecake cookies.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh strawberries work well! Just make sure they’re finely diced to blend into the dough nicely.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Your cookies should be set in the middle but still soft when you remove them from the oven. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour as listed in the recipe, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You could use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for substitutes.
Final Thoughts
These strawberry cheesecake cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or other fruits if desired. They’re perfect for any occasion, so give this recipe a try!
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, where creamy cheesecake meets soft, sweet cookie goodness. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration. With a unique cream cheese filling and bursts of fresh strawberries, each bite is an unforgettable experience. Easy to make and customizable, they can even be adapted for gluten-free diets. Enjoy them warm with ice cream or as part of a dessert platter with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cold butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (tightly packed)
- 2 eggs
- 3 ⅔ cups gluten free 1 to 1 flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup finely diced strawberries
- pinch sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Make the cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Scoop teaspoon-sized balls of the cream cheese mixture onto a parchment-lined baking pan and freeze while preparing the cookie dough.
- In a stand mixer, beat cold butter with granulated and brown sugars until smooth.
- Add eggs and mix until combined.
- Gradually incorporate flour, baking soda, vanilla extract, and sea salt until a thick dough forms.
- Gently fold in finely diced strawberries and chill dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking pan lined with parchment paper.
- Form large balls of cookie dough, create an indent in each, place a cream cheese ball inside, then seal it shut.
- Bake for 11 to 12 minutes or until set in the middle. Cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
