Strawberry cheesecake cookies bring together the best of both worlds soft, chewy cookies infused with fresh strawberry flavor and a rich, creamy cheesecake filling. If you love the classic taste of strawberry cheesecake but want it in a portable, bite-sized treat, this recipe is for you!
With every bite, you’ll get the perfect balance of buttery cookie dough, sweet strawberries, and a luscious cream cheese center. These cookies are perfect for holidays, bake sales, or simply treating yourself to something special. Plus, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
Table of contents
What Are Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
Strawberry cheesecake cookies are a delightful hybrid dessert that combines soft, chewy cookies with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. Imagine a buttery, strawberry-flavored cookie, sometimes swirled with real fruit or jam, wrapped around a smooth cream cheese filling. The result? A dessert that tastes just like a slice of strawberry cheesecake but in cookie form!
Why choose between cookies and cheesecake when you can have both? Whether you’re baking these for a party or just satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies are a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, Chewy, and Creamy: The best texture combination in every bite.
- Bursting with Strawberry Flavor: Fresh strawberries or jam add a fruity twist.
- Cream Cheese Filling: A luscious center that mimics classic cheesecake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, bake sales, or afternoon treats.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps for a bakery-style cookie at home.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Quick Overview
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are made with a soft, strawberry-flavored dough wrapped around a rich cream cheese filling, baked to perfection, and optionally topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate.
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz | Softened, for filling |
| Powdered Sugar | 1/2 cup | Mixed into cream cheese |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup | Softened, for dough |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup | For sweetness |
| Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup | Adds chewiness |
| Egg | 1 large | Binds the dough |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 3/4 cups | Provides structure |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp | Helps cookies rise |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Balances sweetness |
| Freeze-Dried Strawberries | 1 cup | Crushed into powder |
| White Chocolate Chips | 1/2 cup | Optional mix-in |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Scoop small teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and mix until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and crushed freeze-dried strawberries. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in white chocolate chips if using.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop out dough balls, flatten slightly, and wrap each around a frozen cream cheese portion, sealing well.
- Bake: Arrange cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes until the edges are set.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool completely before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted white chocolate.
What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right drinks and desserts can make them even better!
Perfect Drink Pairings
Enjoy your cookies with a refreshing or indulgent beverage:
- Iced Coffee: A smooth and slightly bitter drink balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Strawberry Milkshake: Double down on the strawberry flavor with this creamy, dreamy drink.
- Detox Smoothie: A lighter, fruit-packed smoothie for a refreshing contrast.
Delicious Dessert Combinations
Turn these cookies into part of a larger dessert spread:
- Churro Cheesecake: A warm and spiced contrast to the fruity, creamy cookies.
- Mini Fruit Tarts: Their crisp crust and creamy filling complement the chewy, soft cookies.
Creative Serving Ideas
Want to take these cookies to the next level? Try these fun ideas:
- Cookie Sandwiches: Spread a little extra cream cheese filling between two cookies for a decadent twist.
- Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches: Freeze them and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream in between.
Top Tips for Perfecting Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Mastering these cookies takes a few key techniques to ensure the perfect soft, chewy texture and creamy cheesecake filling. Here’s how to get the best results:
1. Freeze the Filling for a Gooey Center
Freezing the cream cheese filling before baking prevents it from melting too quickly and disappearing into the cookie. Scoop small portions onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes to keep the center creamy and intact.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing develops too much gluten, leading to dense cookies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain a soft, tender texture.
3. Use Freeze-Dried Strawberries for Maximum Flavor
Instead of fresh strawberries, which add excess moisture, use freeze-dried strawberries. Crush them into a fine powder or small pieces for a concentrated strawberry flavor without affecting the dough’s consistency.
4. Chill the Dough to Prevent Spreading
Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps keep the cookies thick and chewy. This step also makes it easier to wrap the dough around the frozen cream cheese filling.
5. Bake Until Just Set
Since the cookies continue to set after baking, remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
6. Add a Finishing Touch
For extra flavor and a bakery-style presentation, drizzle cooled cookies with melted white chocolate or a light lemon glaze for a tangy contrast.
If you love fruit and cheesecake flavors, try my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for another strawberry-filled treat!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage methods:
1. Refrigeration: Essential for Freshness
Because of the cheesecake filling, these cookies must be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Freezing: Save for Later
- Baked Cookies: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Unbaked Dough: Freeze stuffed cookie dough balls and bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Reheating: Enjoy Warm & Fresh
- Microwave: Warm a cookie for 10-15 seconds for a soft, gooey center.
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
For more make-ahead desserts, check out my Strawberry Crunch Cake another treat that stores and freezes beautifully!
FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Do strawberry cheesecake cookies need to be refrigerated?
Yes! Because these cookies contain a cream cheese filling, they should always be stored in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Keeping them chilled also helps maintain the creamy texture of the filling and ensures they stay fresh for longer. Store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Do cheesecake-stuffed cookies need to be refrigerated?
Absolutely. Any cookies that have a cheesecake filling should be refrigerated, as cream cheese is perishable. Leaving them at room temperature for too long can cause the filling to spoil. For the best texture and flavor, store them in the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving if you prefer a softer bite.
Can cheesecake cookies be left out?
Cheesecake cookies can be left at room temperature for a short period around 2 hours before they should be refrigerated. Since the filling contains dairy, keeping them out longer than that increases the risk of bacteria growth. If you plan to serve them at a gathering, it’s best to set them out shortly before serving and return any leftovers to the fridge.
Do you need to refrigerate cream cheese cookies?
Yes, cookies made with cream cheese whether in the dough or the filling should be kept in the refrigerator to preserve their taste, texture, and freshness. If you prefer a softer cookie, let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
How long can strawberry cheesecake sit out?
A strawberry cheesecake, or any cheesecake-based dessert, should not be left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. Beyond that, the dairy content can become unsafe to eat. If you need to transport these cookies for an event, consider keeping them in a cooler with ice packs to maintain freshness.
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 cookies 1x
Description
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet strawberry flavor, complemented by a creamy cheesecake filling. Perfect for a delicious twist on a classic cookie, they make an irresistible treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
For the Cheesecake Filling:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. - Make the Cookie Dough:
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Fold in crushed freeze-dried strawberries. - Assemble the Cookies:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop a tablespoon of dough, flatten it slightly, and place a frozen cheesecake filling piece in the center.
Cover with another tablespoon of dough, sealing the edges around the filling.
Repeat for remaining dough and filling. - Bake the Cookies:
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For extra strawberry flavor, drizzle with a strawberry glaze or add fresh strawberry pieces.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, Cream Cheese Cookies, Stuffed Cookies, Easy Dessert Recipe