Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the classic charm of cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are soft, sweet, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies stand out with their unique cream cheese filling and fruity twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cream cheese creates a rich, delicious taste that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Great for parties, family gatherings, or as a special snack at home.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make these cookies suitable for everyone.
- Creamy Filling: The luscious cream cheese center adds a delightful surprise in every bite.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking these strawberry cheesecake cookies, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients easy and efficient, ensuring a smooth cookie dough and cream cheese filling.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, allowing for easy cookie removal after baking.
- Baking pan: A sturdy surface is essential for even baking and proper cookie shape.
Ingredients
These strawberry cheesecake cookies require the following 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
Begin by preparing the cream cheese filling. In your stand mixer, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until you achieve a creamy texture.
Step 2: Form Cream Cheese Balls
Scoop out 1 teaspoon-sized balls of the cream cheese mixture. Place these balls on a parchment-lined baking pan. Repeat until all the mixture is used. Then, place this pan in the freezer while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough
To make the cookie dough, add cold butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to your clean stand mixer. Beat for about 2 to 3 minutes until there are no clumps of butter remaining.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add in the eggs one at a time. Stir until well combined with the butter and sugars.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
Add in all remaining ingredients except for the strawberries. Stir until a thick cookie dough forms.
Step 6: Fold in Strawberries
Carefully fold in the finely diced strawberries into your cookie dough. Next, place this bowl in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 7: Preheat Oven
After chilling your dough for half an hour, remove it from the fridge. Also take out your frozen cream cheese balls. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line another baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 8: Form Cookies
Using a spoon, scoop large balls of cookie dough onto your lined baking pan. Use your thumb or back of a spoon to press an indent into each ball of dough. Place one ball of cream cheese mixture into each indent.
Step 9: Seal Dough
Carefully form the cookie dough around each cream cheese ball ensuring it is completely sealed inside.
Step 10: Arrange on Baking Pan
Continue this process until all cookie dough and cream cheese balls are used up. Make sure to space them at least three inches apart on your baking pan.
Step 11: Bake
Bake these cookies for about 11 to 12 minutes or until they are just set in the middle.
Step 12: Cool Down
Once baked, remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the pan for about ten minutes before transferring them carefully to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Now you have delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Strawberry cheesecake cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve them at a party or enjoy them as an everyday snack, these suggestions will elevate your serving experience.
With Fresh Strawberries
- Serve each cookie with a side of fresh strawberries for a burst of freshness.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Place two cookies around a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert twist.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for an extra sweet touch.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for added creaminess.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
To ensure your strawberry cheesecake cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is soft to blend smoothly with powdered sugar, creating a creamy filling.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be just set in the middle for that soft texture.
- Space Them Out: Leave ample space between cookies on the baking sheet to allow for spreading while baking.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Strawberry cheesecake cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor and texture. Here are some excellent options:
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: Pair with a selection of cheeses for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries alongside cookies for a delightful breakfast option.
- Pudding Cups: Serve small cups of vanilla or chocolate pudding as an indulgent side treat.
- Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and contrasts nicely with the softness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your strawberry cheesecake cookies turn out perfectly, here are common pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the cookie dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always allow the dough to firm up in the fridge for better texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make your cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a soft, chewy texture.
- Using cold cream cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese makes it hard to achieve a creamy filling. Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt cookies. Always preheat your oven to 350°F for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, then warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm on a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, watching closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about strawberry cheesecake cookies.
Can I use fresh strawberries in my Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
Yes! Fresh strawberries add great flavor and texture. Just make sure they are finely diced.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I substitute gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! You can use regular all-purpose flour if you don’t need gluten-free options. Both work well in this recipe.
What is the best way to freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
Wrap each cookie individually or layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. This prevents sticking.
Final Thoughts
These strawberry cheesecake cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different fruits. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet strawberries and creamy cheesecake with these irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these soft and chewy cookies boast a luscious cream cheese filling that surprises your taste buds in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. With an easy preparation process and the option to make them gluten-free, everyone can enjoy this fruity cookie treat. Bake a batch today and elevate your dessert game!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cold butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 eggs
- 3 ⅔ cups gluten-free flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup finely diced strawberries
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese filling by beating softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Form teaspoon-sized balls of the cream cheese mixture and freeze them on a parchment-lined pan.
- For the cookie dough, mix cold butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until clump-free.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in dry ingredients except for strawberries.
- Fold in diced strawberries and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line another baking pan with parchment paper.
- Scoop cookie dough onto the lined pan, pressing an indent in each ball for the cream cheese filling.
- Seal the cream cheese ball inside each cookie dough ball and space them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for about 11-12 minutes until just set, then cool on a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
