“Is it a cookie? Is it a cheesecake?” This delightful conundrum is answered with a single bite of my Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies. Picture the comforting softness of freshly baked cookies meeting the creamy delight of cheesecake, finished off with pockets of homemade strawberry jam—sounds heavenly, right? These lovely cookies not only whip up quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights, but their unique flavor combination will impress friends and family at any gathering. Plus, who wouldn’t want to enjoy a treat that’s as much fun to make as it is to eat? Dive into the world of homemade goodness and discover just how easy it is to elevate your dessert game. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delicious journey?
Are These the Ultimate Cookies?
Simplicity, these Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a breeze to make, perfect even for novice bakers. Heavenly flavor combination: They blend the beloved tastes of cookie and cheesecake, offering creamy delights with each bite. Crowd-pleaser: With vibrant strawberry bursts, they are sure to impress at any gathering, just like my Carrot Cake Cheesecake. Versatile: Feel free to swap in other fruits for the jam; blueberries make a great alternative! Quick preparation means you’ll have deliciousness ready in no time. Does it get any better than this?
Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Homemade Strawberry Jam
• Finely Diced Fresh Strawberries – Provides a burst of fresh fruit flavor; use thawed frozen strawberries as a substitute if needed.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup) – Adds sweetness and helps thicken the jam; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Delivers a tangy and creamy texture to the filling; full-fat Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the filling, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the creamy flavor of the filling beautifully.
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – Creates a tender and rich cookie base; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Contributes to the cookie’s sweetness and texture; you can reduce this if you prefer less sweetness.
• Egg (1 large) – Acts as a binder, giving your cookies structure; use room temperature for best results.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Brings warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – Provides structure, but be sure to measure accurately or weigh to avoid dense cookies.
• Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) – Ensures the cookies rise properly and maintain a lovely texture.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Balances the sweetness in both the cookies and filling; don’t skip this!
For Assembly
• Homemade Thick Strawberry Jam (1/3 cup, prepared above) – Adds concentrated strawberry goodness; using homemade is better for thickness.
Get ready to bake these Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies and treat yourself to a delightful experience! Each bite promises creamy dreams wrapped in a soft cookie, sure to become a favorite in your home.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Jam
In a medium saucepan, combine finely diced fresh strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir gently while cooking for about 45 minutes, mashing the mixture halfway through, until it thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency. Once thickened, remove the pan from heat and allow the jam to cool while you prepare the creamy filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes. Once prepared, divide the mixture into 18 equal portions, flatten each one, and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freezing these discs until solid will help maintain their shape during baking.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. Add in one room temperature large egg and 1 tsp of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and pale in color. This will create a rich base for your Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, blending on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a slightly crumbly texture will help keep your cookies soft and chewy.
Step 5: Assemble Cookies
Divide the cookie dough into four equal parts on a clean, lightly floured surface. Take a portion of dough, flatten it into a disc, and layer 1 teaspoon of the homemade strawberry jam in the center. Gently cut the dough into quarters, then fold the edges over the jam to create pockets. Repeat this process until all the dough is used and each portion has jam tucked inside.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the assembled cookies about 2 inches apart on the sheet and bake for 11-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring their soft texture remains intact.
How to Store and Freeze Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, keep them in the fridge for a slightly firmer texture, but consume within a week for best freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 2 weeks, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw before serving to enjoy their delightful taste.
Reheating: For a warm treat, pop cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature for a perfect bite of these Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.
Variations & Substitutions for Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful cookies your own with these tempting variations!
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Fruit Swap: Try different fruits for the jam, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a unique twist on flavor.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch that complements the creamy filling.
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Chocolate Delight: Toss in chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a decadent combination of strawberry and chocolate.
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Crumbly Topping: For a fun texture twist, sprinkle crumbled graham crackers on top before baking, mimicking a traditional cheesecake crust.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and replace the egg with a flax egg for a plant-based version.
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Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm spicy note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Store-Bought Shortcut: If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought strawberry jam instead of homemade; it’ll still taste delicious!
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Creamier Filling: Consider adding a touch of sour cream to the cream cheese filling for an extra layer of tang and creaminess.
No matter how you decide to customize your Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, you’ll be creating a sweet treat that echoes love and warmth, perfect to share with friends and family, just like my delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
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Flour Measurement: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately; this prevents dense cookies and ensures your soft strawberry cheesecake cookies turn out perfectly.
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Cheesecake Discs: Freeze the cream cheese filling discs before assembling the cookies; this keeps them intact and prevents leaking during the baking process.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature; this helps achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough, enhancing the overall texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so handle the dough gently.
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Proper Cooling: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this prevents them from breaking apart while they’re still warm.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for any busy home cook looking to save time! You can prepare the homemade strawberry jam and cream cheese filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply make the jam, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the filling, mix the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, then freeze the portions on a parchment-lined tray until solid; once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy use. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the filling and follow the assembly and baking instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked cookies that taste just as delightful as if they were made from scratch on the day of serving!
What to Serve with Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
These delightful cookies offer a sweet escape, but pairing them with the right dishes can elevate your dessert experience even more.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a creamy contrast that complements the cookies’ rich flavors beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream adds a luscious creaminess that enhances the strawberry notes of the cookies.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness while adding a comforting touch to your dessert experience.
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Sparkling Water: Refreshing with a hint of citrus, sparkling water cleanses the palate between bites, making each cookie feel special.
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Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For an indulgent twist, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the cookies. The rich chocolate contrasts delightfully with the fruity sweetness.
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Sliced Fresh Strawberries: Highlight their natural flavors by serving a side of fresh strawberries; the brightness adds a lovely touch to your cookie platter.
Enjoy these Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies on their own or alongside these delightful companions for a genuinely memorable dessert experience!
Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for my homemade jam?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant—they should have no green or white spots. A good strawberry will be slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. If you spot any dark spots, they’re a sign of overripeness.
How should I store my Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
I recommend storing these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, which keeps them soft and fresh. You can also refrigerate them, but for best quality, enjoy them within a week!
Can I freeze Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies?
Yes! To freeze these cookies, layer them carefully in an airtight container separated by parchment paper, and they’ll be good for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to indulge, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature, or microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat that brings back that freshly baked goodness.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries, it happens! If your dough feels too sticky to work with, gently sprinkle a little more flour on your surface or incorporate a spoonful into the dough—just don’t go overboard! If it’s still difficult, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes could help firm it up, making it easier to handle.
Are Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
While these cookies are perfect for humans with no dietary restrictions, be cautious of sharing with pets, especially dogs, as chocolate or other ingredients may be harmful. For allergies, always check your ingredients—substitution for gluten-free diets can be done using a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix, but be aware the texture may vary.
Can I use store-bought strawberry jam instead of homemade?
Very! You can definitely use store-bought strawberry jam for convenience, but make sure to choose a thick, high-quality variety. Homemade jam, however, adds a richer flavor and texture that truly elevates your Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies—so it’s worth the extra effort if you have the time!
Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies With Creamy Dreams
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine finely diced fresh strawberries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir gently while cooking for about 45 minutes, mashing halfway through, until it thickens.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy for about 2 minutes. Divide into 18 equal portions and flatten each one.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. Add in one room temperature large egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt. Gradually add to the creamed butter and sugar, blending on low speed until just combined.
- Divide cookie dough into four equal parts. Flatten a portion of dough and layer 1 tsp of homemade strawberry jam in the center. Fold the edges over to create pockets.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing the baking sheets with parchment paper. Place cookies about 2 inches apart and bake for 11-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling for 10 minutes.
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