I absolutely love this Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe because it combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the bright, fresh sweetness of strawberry jam in perfectly soft cookies. When I first tried it, the way the strawberry jam pockets burst with flavor inside the tender dough blew me away—this isn’t your average cookie experience!

You’ll also find that these cookies are surprisingly versatile, working perfectly for afternoon tea, dessert plates, or even a special treat to brighten up your day. Once you try this Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe, it quickly becomes a go-to whenever you want something both comforting and a little fancy.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Delicious Flavor Combo: The creamy cheesecake filling and homemade strawberry jam pockets create an irresistible taste experience.
  • Fun to Make: Shaping the cookies around frozen cheesecake discs is unique and really satisfying.
  • Perfect Texture: Soft and tender cookie dough with little bursts of jam make every bite a delight.
  • Impresses Guests: These cookies look as fancy as they taste, making them great for sharing or gifting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All these ingredients come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture in the Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe. I always recommend using fresh strawberries for the best jam and cold cream cheese to ensure the filling sets perfectly.

  • Cream cheese: Keep it cold and use full-fat for the best creamy cheesecake filling.
  • Granulated white sugar: You’ll use it across the dough, filling, and jam—makes everything deliciously sweet and balanced.
  • Vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that brings out the richness of the cheesecake and strawberry.
  • Fresh strawberries: Choose ripe but firm for that perfect jam texture.
  • All-purpose flour: Spoon and level it for accurate measurement and tender cookies.
  • Baking powder, baking soda, and salt: They work together to give these cookies the right lift and flavor.
  • Unsalted butter: Very softened — room temp butter will cream perfectly with sugar.
  • Egg: At room temperature for better mixing and structure.
  • Extra granulated sugar for rolling: Creates a lovely sparkle and slight crunch on the cookie exterior.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on the season or mood. Feel free to swap out the strawberries for other fruits or tweak the cheesecake filling to suit your taste.

  • Use frozen mixed berries: I substituted a berry medley once and the jam turned out jam-packed with flavor, giving a fun twist to the Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe.
  • Make it dairy-free: Swap cream cheese for a dairy-free version and use coconut oil instead of butter to keep these fabulous.
  • Drizzle chocolate: When I wanted a little extra indulgence, a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies took them next level.
  • Reduce sugar: I sometimes cut back on sugar in the filling and jam for a less sweet but still delicious version.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

First, line a small cookie sheet with parchment paper—this makes it easy to freeze and handle the cheesecake discs later. Beat cold cream cheese with sugar and vanilla on medium-high speed until fluffy and sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes. Then scoop it into 18 small 2-tsp portions, flatten each slightly to form thick discs, and freeze until firm. Pro tip: freezing the filling first prevents it from oozing out during baking.

Step 2: Cook the Strawberry Jam

While your cheesecake filling is chilling, combine diced fresh strawberries with sugar in a medium pot over medium heat. Cook gently for about 45 minutes, smashing them halfway through, and stirring frequently at the end so the jam doesn’t stick or burn. You want it thick and reduced to about 1/3 cup—then cool it completely in the fridge. This homemade jam is where the magic lies, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor in each bite.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and line baking sheets with parchment. Mix your dry ingredients first: all-purpose flour, baking powder, soda, and salt. Next, cream softened butter and granulated sugar on high speed until fluffy—this usually takes about 2 minutes with a hand or stand mixer. Add the egg and vanilla, then mix until pale and fluffy. Finally, add your dry ingredients on low speed until just combined—don’t over-mix or your cookies will be tough.

Step 4: Incorporate the Jam

Instead of mixing the strawberry jam right in, you’ll fold it into the dough so you get nice pockets of jam that remain distinct after baking. To do this, spread 3/4 of the dough to one side, flatten 1/4 on the bottom, spoon jam over it, add another quarter of dough, jam again, and repeat twice more. Then cut the dough into quarters with a spatula and fold gently—don’t fully mix, or you lose those gorgeous jam streaks you’re after.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

Scoop dough into 18 portions with a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, flatten each slightly, and place a frozen cheesecake disc in the center. Then wrap the dough completely around the cheesecake disc, sealing it well so none peeks out. Roll the assembled cookie ball in extra granulated sugar for a lovely sparkle and slight crunch. Don’t forget, keep those cheesecake discs frozen until assembly to make wrapping easier and prevent melting.

Step 6: Bake and Shape

Place six cookies per baking sheet and bake for 11-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently round them with a large circular cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to give a perfect shape. Let cool on the sheet for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving—they’re delicate when warm!

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Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

  • Keep cheesecake filling cold: It’s easier to work with and stops the filling from leaking during baking.
  • Don’t overmix jam into dough: Folding gently gives beautiful pockets that make these cookies special.
  • Shape cookies while warm: Using a cookie cutter right after baking creates a perfectly round, professional look.
  • Use fresh strawberries for jam: Frozen berries can make jam watery, so fresh ones really up the flavor and texture.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

A close-up view of soft, round cookies with a light beige dough mixed with bright red strawberry bits, stacked three high in the center, with the top cookie showing a bite taken out of it revealing a slightly chewy inside and a pale texture. Surrounding the stack are more cookies laid flat, showing the same red bits inside them. Nearby, there is a halved fresh strawberry with a white and red interior, whole strawberries filling a white bowl in the background, and a small white chamomile flower near the base of the stack, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love dusting these cookies lightly with powdered sugar or topping them with a little extra fresh strawberry slice and mint leaves for that pretty, fresh look. Sometimes, a drizzle of melted white chocolate makes them even more decadent and special for guests.

Side Dishes

Pair your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a frothy cappuccino for a comforting treat. They also go really well with vanilla ice cream if you serve them warm and want something extra indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthday parties or special occasions, I arrange these cookies on a pretty platter with fresh strawberry halves and edible flowers—always gets wowed reactions! Wrapping a few cookies in a cellophane bag tied with twine makes a lovely homemade gift anyone would adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay soft and fresh but keep them away from heat or sunlight to avoid melting the cheesecake center.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully! After assembling but before baking, freeze the cookie dough balls with cheesecake filling inside on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you want fresh cookies, bake straight from frozen, adding a couple minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen cookies in a low oven (around 300℉) for 5-7 minutes to warm through without melting the centers too much. This brings back that freshly baked softness and revives the strawberry-cheesecake flavors beautifully.

FAQs

  1. Can I use store-bought strawberry jam instead of making fresh?

    You can, but I really recommend making the fresh strawberry jam for the best texture and authentic flavor. Store-bought jam tends to be sweeter and less chunky, which changes the cookie’s experience. If you do opt for store-bought, choose a thick, high-quality jam and reduce added sugar in the dough slightly.

  2. Why do I need to freeze the cheesecake filling before baking?

    Freezing the cheesecake filling helps it hold its shape during baking so it doesn’t melt into the dough. It keeps those luscious cream cheese discs intact, giving you the signature creamy center that makes these cookies so special.

  3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

    Look for lightly golden edges but soft centers; the cookies will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking because too much heat can dry out the tender dough and melt the cheesecake filling too much.

  4. Can I make these cookies vegan?

    Yes! Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, vegan butter, and an egg replacer like flax eggs. The result will be delicious, though the texture might be slightly different than the classic version.

  5. How long do the cookies stay fresh?

    Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is the best way to keep them tasting like fresh-baked.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe holds a special place in my baking repertoire because it blends the elegance of cheesecake with the hominess of a cookie—something both my family and friends rave about. Once you give it a go, I’m sure you’ll love experimenting, sharing, and most importantly, enjoying these luscious cookies as much as I do. So go ahead, grab your mixing bowls, and treat yourself to this deliciously unique bake—you won’t regret it!

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Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 122 reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 11 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 11 minutes
  • Yield: 18 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies combine a tender, buttery cookie dough with pockets of sweet strawberry jam and creamy cheesecake filling. These delightful treats offer a perfect balance of tangy cheesecake, fruity jam, and soft cookie texture, making them a delicious indulgence for any occasion.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
  • 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Jam

  • 12 oz (340 g) fresh strawberries, hulled and finely diced
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar

For the Cookies

  • 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
  • 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, very softened
  • 1 egg, at room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar, for rolling dough in

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Line a small cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, add the cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, mix until the mixture becomes fluffy and the sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes. Scoop the filling into 18 portions, each about 2 teaspoons, onto the baking sheet. Slightly flatten each scoop to form thick discs, then freeze until completely solid.
  2. Make the Strawberry Jam: In a medium-sized pot over medium heat, combine the finely diced strawberries and sugar. Cook for approximately 45 minutes, smashing the strawberries halfway through with a wooden spoon to break them down. Stir continuously near the end to prevent sticking as the jam thickens. The jam should reduce to about a heaping 1/3 cup (80 ml) and be very thick. Remove from heat and chill in the refrigerator while preparing the dough.
  3. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then set aside.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar on high speed with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This can also be done using the paddle attachment of a stand mixer.
  5. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed just until combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Fold Jam into Dough: Push three-quarters of the dough to one side of the bowl and flatten the remaining quarter on the bottom. Spoon one-quarter of the strawberry jam onto this flattened dough layer. Add another quarter of dough on top of the jam and then another quarter of jam on top of that. Repeat this layering one more time. Using a rubber spatula, cut the dough into four sections and gently fold each section just enough to create little pockets of jam throughout without completely mixing it in.
  8. Assemble Cookies: Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out 18 dough portions. Slightly flatten each piece and place a frozen cheesecake disc in the center. Wrap the cookie dough around the cheesecake completely, shaping it into a slightly flattened disc rather than a ball. This shape helps ensure even baking and prevents excessive spreading.
  9. Roll in Sugar: Roll each assembled cookie dough piece in the remaining granulated sugar to coat.
  10. Bake: Arrange 6 cookies per baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 11-12 minutes. Immediately after removing from the oven, gently scoot a large circular cookie cutter around each cookie to perfect the circular shape.
  11. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve once cooled and enjoy the delightful combination of strawberry jam and creamy cheesecake inside a buttery cookie.

Notes

  • Keep the cheesecake filling discs frozen until ready to use to prevent melting during assembly and baking.
  • Be gentle when folding the jam into the dough to maintain jam pockets for best texture and flavor distribution.
  • Rolling the cookies in sugar adds a pleasant crunch and slight sweetness to the exterior.
  • Shaping the cookies into flattened discs helps control their spread during baking for a uniform appearance.
  • Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg

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