Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with soft, chewy cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies bring a hint of freshness with strawberries and a creamy filling that makes each bite feel indulgent. Whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a sweet craving, they’re sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of strawberries and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for any occasion—Easter, birthdays, or simply as an afternoon snack.
- Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free flour makes this recipe accessible for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves cookies, and adding cheesecake filling takes them to the next level!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your strawberry cheesecake cookies, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- stand mixer
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- baking pan
- parchment paper
- spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer: This tool ensures that ingredients are mixed thoroughly, making it easier to achieve creamy fillings and doughs.
- Mixing Bowls: Sturdy bowls help keep your ingredients organized while mixing.
- Baking Pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking for 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: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
First, make the cream cheese filling. In a stand mixer, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy.
Step 2: Freeze the Filling
Scoop out 1 teaspoon sized balls of cream cheese mixture. Place them on a parchment-lined baking pan. Repeat for all cream cheese mixture. Place the pan in the freezer while making the cookie dough.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
To make the cookie dough:
1. Add cold butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to a clean stand mixer.
2. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes or until no clumps of butter remain.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add in eggs and stir until combined. Then add in remaining ingredients except strawberries. Stir until a thick cookie dough is formed.
Step 5: Fold in Strawberries
Carefully fold in diced strawberries. Place the bowl of cookie dough in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan
After 30 minutes:
1. Remove dough from fridge.
2. Take cream cheese balls out of the freezer.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 7: Form Cookie Balls
Use a spoon to scoop large balls of cookie dough. Place on lined baking pan. Use your thumb or back of spoon to press an indent in the center of each cookie dough ball. Place a ball of cream cheese mixture into each indent.
Step 8: Seal Cookies
Form the dough into a ball around the cream cheese, ensuring it is completely sealed inside.
Step 9: Bake
Continue this process for all cookie dough and cream cheese balls, spacing them at least 3 inches apart on the baking pan. Bake for 11 to 12 minutes or until cookies are just set in the middle.
Step 10: Cool
Finally, remove from oven. Allow cookies to cool on pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Enjoy your freshly baked strawberry cheesecake cookies!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These strawberry cheesecake cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, serving these sweet treats can elevate any dessert table.
With Fresh Strawberries
- Serve with fresh sliced strawberries on the side for an extra burst of flavor and freshness. This pairing enhances the strawberry taste in every bite.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Top each cookie with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The creamy texture complements the soft cookie and adds a delightful chill.
Drizzle with Chocolate
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an added layer of richness. Use dark or white chocolate depending on your preference for sweetness.
Garnish with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top right before serving. This light and airy addition pairs beautifully with the flavors of cheesecake.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage contrasts nicely with the coolness of the cream cheese filling.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Creating the perfect strawberry cheesecake cookies is all about attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for best results.
- Use softened cream cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother filling.
- Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
- Don’t skip the indent: Create an indent in the center before adding the cream cheese mixture to ensure it stays tucked inside while baking.
- Bake just until set: Remove cookies from the oven when they are just set in the middle to keep them soft and chewy.
- Cool properly: Let cookies cool on a wire rack to avoid sogginess and maintain their texture.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These strawberry cheesecake cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, that complement the creamy filling.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their cookies in warm melted chocolate.
- Mini Tarts: Serve mini fruit tarts alongside for a variety of textures and flavors at your dessert table.
- Panna Cotta: This smooth Italian dessert pairs well with fruity flavors, creating a delightful contrast next to your cookies.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake provides additional sweetness while being slightly less intense than cheesecake.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae station where guests can customize their own sundaes, including crushed cookie toppings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making strawberry cheesecake cookies, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the cream cheese softening: Ensure cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling.
- Not chilling the dough: Failing to chill the cookie dough can result in flat cookies. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Overbaking the cookies: Baking too long can dry out your cookies. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they’re just set.
- Ignoring measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups accurately for consistent results.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven: Preheating ensures even baking. Always preheat your oven before placing the cookies inside.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep the cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Freeze individual cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes until just heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about strawberry cheesecake cookies that may help you during your baking journey.
What makes strawberry cheesecake cookies different?
Strawberry cheesecake cookies combine the flavors of classic cheesecake with cookie texture, featuring a creamy filling and bits of fresh strawberries.
Can I use frozen strawberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the dough.
How do I know when my strawberry cheesecake cookies are done?
The cookies are done when they are slightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
Are strawberry cheesecake cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free flour, these strawberry cheesecake cookies can easily be made gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips or other fruits like blueberries for a twist on traditional flavors.
Final Thoughts
These strawberry cheesecake cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can personalize them with various toppings or fillings according to your taste. Try making these delightful cookies for any occasion; they are sure to impress!
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, where the classic flavors of cheesecake meet the comforting texture of soft, chewy cookies. This recipe marries fresh strawberries with a creamy, luscious filling, making each bite a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness. Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to simple afternoon cravings, these cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing.
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 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 creamy. Freeze teaspoon-sized balls of this mixture.
- Make the cookie dough by creaming cold butter with both sugars until smooth. Mix in eggs and remaining dry ingredients except strawberries, then fold in diced strawberries.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before preheating your oven to 350°F.
- Scoop cookie dough onto a lined baking pan, pressing an indent in each ball to add the frozen cream cheese filling inside.
- Seal the dough around the filling and bake for 11 to 12 minutes until just set. Cool on a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (50g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
