Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

These perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are soft and chewy sugar cookies, bursting with jammy strawberries and filled with a creamy vanilla cheesecake center. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of strawberry cheesecake in every bite. Their buttery texture and fresh flavor make them a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberries and cheesecake creates a unique taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, picnics, or just a special dessert at home.
• Chewy Texture: The cookies remain soft and chewy, making them irresistible.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh strawberries adds an authentic flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easier and quicker, ensuring a light texture.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: Helps in portioning dough consistently for uniform cookies.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
• 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Cookie Dough

• 12 oz (340 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and finely diced
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar, for rolling dough in

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cold cream cheese with granulated white sugar and vanilla.
2. Beat together using an electric mixer until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Dice the fresh strawberries into small pieces.
2. In a separate bowl, toss them with 1/4 cup of granulated white sugar. Let sit to macerate while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In another large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated white sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg and 2 tsp of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Combine Strawberries with Dough

1. Gently fold in the macerated strawberries into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop out portions of cookie dough using a cookie scoop or spoon.
3. Flatten each scoop slightly, place about a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center, and wrap the dough around it to form a ball.
4. Roll each ball in granulated white sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 11 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
2. Let cool on baking sheets for several minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

These delightful strawberry cheesecake cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether for a casual snack or a festive gathering, you can elevate their presentation with a few simple touches.

With Fresh Strawberries

• Serve your cookies alongside freshly sliced strawberries for a refreshing contrast. This adds a burst of flavor and enhances the strawberry theme.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie. This creates an indulgent dessert that captures the essence of cheesecake.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter with other treats like brownies and mini cupcakes. This variety will impress guests at any gathering.

Paired with Hot Beverages

• Enjoy your cookies with hot drinks like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The warm beverages complement the soft texture of the cookies perfectly.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Perfecting your strawberry cheesecake cookies involves attention to detail and following some key tips.

• Use cold cream cheese – Starting with cold cream cheese helps achieve a creamy filling without becoming too runny during mixing.
• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
• Measure flour correctly – Spoon and level your flour to prevent dense cookies. Too much flour can compromise texture.
• Do not overmix the dough – Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
• Rotate baking sheets – Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Pairing side dishes with strawberry cheesecake cookies can create an enjoyable dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement these sweet treats well:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness, balancing out the richness of the cookies.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast.

3. Chocolate Dipping Sauce
   Serve melted chocolate for dipping, adding an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

4. Nutty Granola
   A sprinkle of granola offers crunch and complements the softness of the cookies beautifully.

5. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats provide a different texture while maintaining a sweet flavor profile that matches well.

6. Berry Compote
   A warm berry compote not only enhances the fruity aspect but also adds moisture when drizzled over each cookie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making strawberry cheesecake cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Using warm ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at the right temperature. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Skipping chilling time: Chilling the dough is essential. It helps prevent spreading and gives your cookies a nice shape.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This ensures you don’t add too much.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so take them out when they’re just golden.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies if stacking.

Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about strawberry cheesecake cookies.

How do I make strawberry cheesecake cookies?

You can make strawberry cheesecake cookies by preparing a sugar cookie dough and incorporating diced strawberries and a creamy vanilla cheesecake filling.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the cookie batter.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

For a non-dairy option, consider using vegan cream cheese or a cashew-based cream alternative for the filling.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover strawberry cheesecake cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

These strawberry cheesecake cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fruits or even add chocolate chips for variety. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful treats!