Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, sweet cookie goodness and creamy cheesecake filling. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the flavors of fresh strawberries and rich cream cheese. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply want to indulge in something special, this recipe is sure to please everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: The cream cheese filling adds a rich and smooth texture that makes every bite heavenly.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these scrumptious cookies.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holidays, or simply as a sweet snack at home. They fit right in at any event!
- Fresh Strawberry Flavor: Diced strawberries bring a burst of freshness that enhances the overall taste.
- Gluten-Free Option: The recipe allows for gluten-free flour, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking these delicious cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Baking pan
- Freezer-safe container
- Mixing bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool ensures that your cream cheese filling is perfectly whipped and combined with minimal effort.
- Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
- Baking pan: A reliable baking pan ensures even cooking for your cookies.
Ingredients
These strawberry cheesecake cookies are soft, sweet and delicious! The cream cheese filling is so creamy. These cookies are fresh, easy to make, and great for any occasion!
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 Cream Cheese Balls
Scoop out 1 teaspoon sized balls of the cream cheese mixture. Place them on a parchment-lined baking pan. Repeat this step until all the cream cheese mixture is used. Place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
To create 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: Mix in Eggs
Add in eggs and stir until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add in remaining ingredients except strawberries. Stir until a thick cookie dough forms.
Step 6: Fold in Strawberries
Carefully fold in diced strawberries. Place the bowl of cookie dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 7: Preheat Oven
After chilling, remove dough from fridge. Take out the cream cheese balls from freezer. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line another baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 8: Shape Cookies
Use a spoon to scoop large balls of cookie dough onto the lined baking pan. Press an indent in the center using your thumb or back of a spoon. Place a ball of cream cheese mixture into each indent.
Step 9: Seal Cookies
Form the dough into a ball around each piece of cream cheese ensuring it is completely sealed inside.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Continue assembling all cookie dough and cream cheese balls on your pan, spacing them at least 3 inches apart. Bake for 11 to 12 minutes or until cookies are just set in the middle.
Step 11: Cool Down
Finally, 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.
Enjoy your freshly baked strawberry cheesecake cookies!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Serving strawberry cheesecake cookies can elevate any gathering, whether it’s a casual day at home or a festive celebration. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement these delicious treats.
With Fresh Strawberries
- Serve the cookies alongside fresh strawberries for a burst of fruity flavor. This pairing enhances the strawberry taste in the cookies.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie adds an extra layer of richness. It’s a perfect way to impress your guests!
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter with other sweet treats, like brownies and mini cupcakes, for an eye-catching display.
With Ice Cream
- Pair these cookies with vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a tasty dessert sandwich. The contrast of warm cookies and cold ice cream is irresistible!
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cookies can add a decadent touch. It also creates a beautiful presentation.
How to Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
To make your strawberry cheesecake cookies even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring thicker cookies.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh strawberries and quality cream cheese to enhance flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix your dough just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be set but not browned. Adjust baking time according to your oven’s performance.
- Seal the Cream Cheese: Ensure that the cookie dough completely encloses the cream cheese filling for a perfect bite every time.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Pairing side dishes with strawberry cheesecake cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to balance out the sweetness with creamy savory notes.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch offers a delightful contrast to the soft sweetness of the cookies.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Serve mini cheesecakes as a thematic match; their flavors will harmonize well together.
- Nutty Granola: A side of nutty granola adds crunch and pairs nicely with strawberry flavors.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light, complementary dish that enhances dessert indulgence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making strawberry cheesecake cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your baking goes smoothly.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese can lead to an uneven mixture. Always soften them before mixing for a smooth batter.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Incorrect flour measurement can ruin the cookie texture. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
- Skipping the Chill Time: If you skip refrigerating the dough, cookies may spread too much while baking. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Overbaking the Cookies: Baking too long can make cookies dry. Remove them from the oven when they are just set in the middle for a soft cookie.
- Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Ingredients should be at room temperature unless specified otherwise. This helps in achieving a better consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store strawberry cheesecake cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about strawberry cheesecake cookies that might help you during your baking journey.
What makes Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies special?
Strawberry cheesecake cookies combine the flavors of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries, making them unique and delightful treats.
Can I use fresh strawberries?
Yes, fresh strawberries are encouraged! They provide the best flavor and texture for these strawberry cheesecake cookies.
Are these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free flour as mentioned in the recipe. They turn out just as delicious!
How can I customize my Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
Feel free to add chocolate chips or swap strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
These strawberry cheesecake cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or seasonal fruit availability. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night at home, these cookies will surely impress anyone who tries them!
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Treat yourself to the delightful experience of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, where the soft sweetness of a fresh cookie meets the creamy decadence of cheesecake filling. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging in a personal treat. The combination of fresh strawberries and rich cream cheese creates a luscious flavor profile that will impress anyone who takes a bite. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that even novice bakers can whip up these scrumptious cookies with minimal effort, making them a go-to dessert for celebrations or cozy evenings alike.
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
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Freeze small balls of the cream cheese mixture on a parchment-lined baking pan.
- Make the cookie dough by beating cold butter with both sugars until smooth; then mix in eggs.
- Combine remaining ingredients, then fold in diced strawberries and chill the dough for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and shape cookies around frozen cream cheese balls.
- Bake for 11 to 12 minutes or until set but not browned.
- Let cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
