Name: Irresistibly Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies to Delight Your Day
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 87 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Ensure it’s cold for easy mixing and a perfect filling consistency.); 0.5 cup Sugar (Adjust based on the sweetness of strawberries.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best results.); 2 cups Fresh Strawberries (Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for optimal flavor.); 0.5 cup Sugar (Adjust quantity based on your taste preference.); 0.5 cup Butter (Softened butter is best for creaming with sugar.); 2 cups Flour (All-purpose flour works best; avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Proper measurement ensures the right texture.); 0.5 teaspoon Baking Soda (Don’t skip this crucial ingredient.); 1 pinch Salt (A small pinch is sufficient for a delightful taste.)

As I stirred the bubbling strawberries on the stove, their sweet aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me to sun-soaked summer days. This inspired me to create something truly special—Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Homemade Strawberry Jam. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, buttery cookie that holds a luscious cheesecake center bursting with vibrant strawberry flavor. Not only are these cookies a wonderful way to impress friends and family, but their straightforward preparation makes them accessible to bakers of all skill levels. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a quick baking process, you can elevate your dessert game to a new level. Curious about how to whip up these mouthwatering treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies a Must-Try?

Indulgence in Every Bite: Each cookie offers a delightful marriage of flavors, combining rich cheesecake and sweet strawberry jam for an unforgettable treat.
Easy to Make: With minimal steps, even novice bakers will shine in the kitchen.
Unique Presentation: Impress your guests by plating these cookies on a tiered stand next to fresh strawberries, making dessert feel lavish.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap cream cheese with mascarpone for a fun twist or use store-bought jam for a quick fix.
Warm and Fresh: Baking them to golden perfection means you’ll revel in cookies that are soft, chewy, and warm right out of the oven.
Ready to elevate your cookie game? Try your hand at these Cinnamon Roll Cookies for another delicious adventure!

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling

Cream Cheese – Provides richness and the characteristic cheesecake flavor. Ensure it’s cold for easy mixing and a perfect filling consistency.
Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling. Adjust based on the sweetness of strawberries.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth. Use pure vanilla for best results.

For the Strawberry Jam

Fresh Strawberries – Adds freshness and a fruity contrast. Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for optimal flavor.
Sugar – Balances the sweetness of the strawberries. Adjust quantity based on your taste preference.

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Gives the cookies their tender texture. Softened butter is best for creaming with sugar.
Flour – Creates the cookie structure. All-purpose flour works best; avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps cookies rise. Proper measurement ensures the right texture.
Baking Soda – Works in conjunction with baking powder for ideal lift. Don’t skip this crucial ingredient.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors. A small pinch is sufficient for a delightful taste.

Excited to make these delectable Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies? Let’s get baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Cheesecake Filling
Start by mixing 8 ounces of cold cream cheese with ½ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth. This process should take about 2 minutes. Once well combined, shape the mixture into small discs, roughly 1-inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and pop them in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Make Strawberry Jam
While the cheesecake discs are chilling, prepare the homemade strawberry jam. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of diced fresh strawberries with ½ cup of sugar. Cook over medium heat for approximately 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Halfway through, use a potato masher to break down the strawberries. Cook until the mixture thickens and turns jam-like, watching closely towards the end to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cookie Dough Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, cream ½ cup of softened butter and ¾ cup of sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Mix in 1 large egg and an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract before gently folding in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Assemble Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a scoop of cookie dough (approximately 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm. Place a frozen cheesecake disc in the center, then scoop more dough on top to encase the filling completely. Roll the cookie into a ball, gently flatten it, and roll it in sugar, ensuring it’s coated all around for a sweet crust.

Step 5: Baking
Arrange the prepared cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart about 2 inches. Bake in your preheated oven for 11-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. They will still look soft in the center, which is perfect! After removing from the oven, let the cookies rest for a few minutes.

Step 6: Cooling and Storage
Once slightly cooled, use a cookie cutter slightly larger than the cookies to reshape them if desired. Transfer the strawberry cheesecake cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or add a slice of bread to keep them soft and moist.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Variations

Feel free to make these delightful cookies your own with a few easy twists!

Cheese Swap: Substitute mascarpone or ricotta for cream cheese for a creamier texture and unique flavor profile. This will create a slightly different cheesecake experience that you’ll adore.
Jam Shortcuts: Use store-bought strawberry jam if you’re pressed for time. However, if you have a moment, a homemade jam adds an incredible freshness and depth of flavor that truly elevates your cookies.
Add Some Spice: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for a warm spice note that complements the strawberry perfectly. It’s an easy way to warm up the flavor a bit!
Nutty Delight: Fold in some chopped nuts, like toasted pistachios or pecans, into the cookie dough for an added crunch that complements the softness of the cookies beautifully. This twist introduces a delightful texture contrast that your taste buds will thank you for.
Chocolate Lovers: Add some mini chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate on top of the baked cookies for an indulgent chocolate-strawberry experience. This sweet addition can elevate your cookies into a whole new decadent territory.
Berry Mix-Up: Feel free to swap strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries in your jam. Each option will provide a new flavor adventure, making these cookies deliciously versatile.
Vegan Option: Swap traditional butter for vegan butter and replace the egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a plant-based version that still delivers on taste. These vegan cookies will be a hit at any gathering!

With these variations in mind, you’re sure to whip up Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies that not only satisfy your cravings but also keep your baking exciting! And while you’re at it, why not try your skills in making Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed or dive into another delightful treat with Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon? The possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and strawberry jam up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix and freeze the cheesecake filling discs for up to 24 hours in the freezer, and cook the jam, letting it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply follow the cookie dough preparation step and assemble the cookies with the frozen cheesecake and chilled jam. You’ll achieve delicious cookies just as fresh as if you made them that day, with the added bonus of saving valuable time on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Chill for Success: Freeze the cheesecake filling before use to ensure it maintains its shape while baking, preventing any oozing.
Avoid Overmixing: For perfectly tender cookies, mix the dough only until the dry ingredients are just combined; overmixing can lead to toughness.
Perfect Cookie Shape: Press cookies with a cutter after baking while they are warm for a uniform, aesthetically pleasing shape—a great final touch!
Storage Secrets: To keep your cookies soft longer, include a slice of bread in the container; this helps maintain moisture and texture.
Freshness Matters: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the homemade jam to enhance the overall flavor of your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend freshness, you can store cookies in the fridge for up to a week, but keep them airtight to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookies. Arrange them on a baking sheet and flash freeze before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. A quick zap brings back their inviting softness and melts the cheesecake center to perfection!

What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?

Create a delightful spread that enhances the sweetness of these cookies and captivates your taste buds.

Earl Grey Tea: Its fragrant notes and subtle citrus sweetness complement the rich cheesecake flavors beautifully. A warm cup enhances the afternoon treat experience.
Fresh Strawberries: Serve alongside sliced strawberries for an extra burst of fruity freshness that mirrors the jam inside the cookies. Their vibrant color adds a lovely touch to your dessert plating.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, providing a cool contrast that enhances the warmth of the freshly baked cookies. A drizzle of chocolate sauce on top adds decadence.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies creates a beautiful presentation. The slight bitterness of chocolate balances the bright sweetness of the strawberries.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream offers a delightful texture contrast and a creamy element that mirrors the cheesecake filling. Add a touch of vanilla for added flavor.
Iced Coffee: The refreshing quality and caffeine kick of iced coffee make it a perfect companion, balancing the sweetness of the cookies while providing a satisfying, chilled beverage option.
Lemonade: The zesty tang of lemonade can cut through the richness of the cookies, providing a refreshing palate cleanse that enhances the overall experience.
Tiered Dessert Stand: Present these cookies alongside other treats, such as mini muffins or cupcakes. This playful display not only looks inviting, but encourages tasting a little bit of everything.

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use for the jam?
Always opt for ripe, juicy strawberries for your homemade jam. Choose strawberries that are bright red and firm, avoiding those with dark spots or mushy textures, as they won’t produce the best flavor or consistency.

How long can I store my Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, consider refrigerating them for up to a week, but be sure they’re airtight to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked cookies, arrange them on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer the cookie balls to a freezer bag with parchment paper between layers. They can be baked straight from frozen; just add an extra 2-3 minutes to the original baking time to ensure they cook through.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, it’s a good idea to chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This will help firm it up and make it easier to scoop and shape. Additionally, you can lightly flour your hands when rolling the cookies to prevent sticking.

Are these cookies suitable for pets?
While Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a rich treat for humans, they contain sugar and cream cheese, which can upset your pets’ tummies. It’s best to keep these delectable cookies for human enjoyment only!

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Yes! If you’re looking to mix things up, feel free to substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta cheese. Both will provide their own unique flavors and textures, offering a delightful variation to your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.