Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with scrumptious cookie dough, all topped with rich caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: Experience a perfect blend of sweet and salty with every bite.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, holidays, or a cozy night in; they fit any occasion.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers of cheesecake filling and caramel make these cookies stunning.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of chewy cookies and creamy cheesecake filling.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather all necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag or ziplock bag
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps to achieve light, fluffy butter and sugar mixtures effortlessly.
- Piping bag or ziplock bag: Essential for neatly applying the cheesecake filling and caramel sauce on top.
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking cookies, ensuring they cook properly.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120ml) thick caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
How to Make Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer this mixture to a piping bag or ziplock bag. Refrigerate it for about 15 minutes until slightly firm — this will make piping easier later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about 2–3 minutes. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand to form a thick disc. Place a heaping teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Fold the dough around it carefully to seal well. Shape it into a tall ball to encourage thickness during baking. Place these dough balls onto a prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches between each cookie. For best results, chill them in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
Step 4: Bake Your Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake your cookies for about 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. If desired, gently press down the center of each cookie right after baking using a spoon to create a small well for toppings. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 5: Add the Cheesecake & Caramel Toppings
Once completely cool, pipe a swirl of chilled cheesecake filling on top of each cookie for that beloved cheesecake layer. Using your piping bag or ziplock bag with tip snipped off, apply a thick swirl of caramel sauce over each cheesecake layer or directly onto the cookie if preferred. Finally, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for that perfect sweet-salty finish.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Serving Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and textures. Here are a few creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With Coffee
- Pair with a rich espresso or latte for a perfect morning treat.
- Enjoy with cold brew coffee for a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fruits like strawberries or raspberries.
- Add some chocolate truffles to create an indulgent dessert spread.
With Ice Cream
- Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the ice cream for added sweetness.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
- Dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile.
As Party Favors
- Package cookies in small bags tied with ribbons for guests to take home.
- Include a recipe card for them to recreate your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies at home.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Chill before baking: Refrigerating the assembled cookie dough helps prevent spreading, keeping your cookies thick and chewy.
- Don’t overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures; this helps achieve perfectly baked cookies.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to try different toppings, such as chocolate ganache or fruit preserves, for unique flavor twists.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some delightful options you might consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance the richness of the cookies, adding freshness and color.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie paired with crackers; this contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch complements the sweet flavors in the cookies beautifully.
- Caramel Popcorn: Serve caramel popcorn as a crunchy side; its sweet-salty combination echoes the cookie’s flavors.
- Miniature Milkshakes: Offer small milkshakes in various flavors (vanilla or chocolate) to accompany each cookie bite delightfully.
- Nut Butter Dip: Create a nut butter dip (like almond or peanut butter) for an added protein boost that pairs well with sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the chilling step: Not refrigerating the assembled cookies can cause them to spread too much when baking. Always chill your cookies for 20-30 minutes for better structure.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing the cookie dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a softer texture.
- Using warm cream cheese: If the cream cheese isn’t softened properly, it won’t mix well and could affect the filling’s texture. Ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure you have the right amounts.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy, preventing undercooking or burning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm them for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place them in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries related to the Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe:
Can I substitute cream cheese?
Yes, you can use mascarpone cheese as an alternative, but it may change the flavor slightly.
How do I store leftover caramel sauce?
Store caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Can I add nuts to these cookies?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add great flavor and texture.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is overly sticky, try chilling it longer or adding a little more flour until it’s manageable.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
Final Thoughts
The Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe combines rich flavors and textures that make it irresistible. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and offer plenty of customization options. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or mix-ins! Enjoy creating this delightful treat that brings joy with every bite.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, where creamy cheesecake meets soft, chewy cookies, all drizzled with rich caramel and sprinkled with sea salt. These irresistible treats are perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, holiday celebration, or cozy night at home. With their beautiful layers and decadent flavors, these cookies are sure to impress your loved ones. The easy-to-follow recipe makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, ensuring that you can create this scrumptious dessert with confidence.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) thick caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the cheesecake filling by mixing softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag and refrigerate.
- For the cookie dough, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter with both sugars until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients.
- Form cookie discs, add cheesecake filling in the center, seal dough around it, and chill for 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), bake cookies for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden. Cool slightly before adding cheesecake filling and caramel topping.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (45g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
