Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines two beloved desserts: cheesecake and cookies. These soft and chewy cookies are filled with the sweet flavor of strawberries, making them a perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you are baking for a party, a picnic, or just because, these cookies will sweeten your day!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. They are easy to prepare and bake, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The combination of cream cheese and strawberries creates a rich and flavorful cookie that will impress your family and friends. Plus, these cookies are a great way to enjoy the taste of strawberries all year round, even when they are out of season!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
To make these delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies, follow the simple steps outlined below. It will take just a little time to prepare and bake, but the results will be worth the effort!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into small pieces
- Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Crush the freeze-dried strawberries into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the crushed strawberries.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten the balls slightly if desired.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are light golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets, and then transfer them to a wire rack.
- For the optional glaze, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies.
- Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
These cookies are best served fresh out of the oven or at room temperature. They make a perfect treat for coffee breaks, dessert at a meal, or an afternoon snack. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert!
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
To keep your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to ensure they cream together well.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined will keep your cookies soft.
- For an extra strawberry flavor, you can sprinkle some crushed freeze-dried strawberries on top of the cookies before baking.
Variation
You can try adding white chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for a different twist. Additionally, if you don’t have freeze-dried strawberries, you can use mini chocolate chips instead for a chocolate cheesecake cookie.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
Using fresh strawberries is not recommended because they contain too much moisture and can lead to soggy cookies. Freeze-dried strawberries are the best choice for this recipe.
2. How can I check if the cookies are done?
Look for a light golden edge. The center may seem soft, but the cookies will continue to bake as they cool.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and freeze it. Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze them, and then bake them right from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies!
