Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies (Print)

Soft cookies with creamy cheesecake center and sweet strawberry flavor. A delightful American dessert perfect for sharing.

# Ingredient list:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
07 - 1 large egg
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed

→ Cheesecake Filling

10 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
11 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
12 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Optional Topping

13 - 2 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberries, crushed

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
03 - Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
04 - Add egg and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.
05 - Gradually mix in dry ingredients, scraping down the bowl as needed. Fold in crushed freeze-dried strawberries.
06 - Combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
07 - Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough, flatten in your hand, and place 1 teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Cover with another tablespoon of dough, seal edges, and roll into a ball. Place on baking sheet. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
08 - Bake for 11-13 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
09 - Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack. Sprinkle with extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They deliver all the creamy tangy luxury of cheesecake with the portable convenience of a cookie
  • The freeze-dried strawberries pack an intense fruity punch without making the dough soggy
02 -
  • Chilling the assembled dough balls for 15 minutes before baking prevents them from spreading too much
  • The cream cheese filling should be cold when you stuff the cookies, it keeps the center distinct and creamy
03 -
  • Crush the freeze-dried strawberries right before using them for the brightest flavor
  • Use a small cookie scoop to portion the dough and filling for consistent sizing