Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are the delicious marriage of two beloved desserts: the soft, pillowy goodness of a bakery-style cookie bursting with sweet strawberries, and the creamy, tangy center of classic cheesecake. Every bite is a true treat, with a surprise of velvety cheesecake filling tucked inside a buttery, golden exterior. Whether you need a party showstopper or just a special afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies are guaranteed to wow — and they’re much easier to make than you might think!

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies come together with everyday basics and a handful of fresh, simple ingredients. Each one brings its own charm, adding structure, sweetness, or that irresistible fresh berry flavor that makes these cookies so memorable.

Cream cheese (8 ounces, room temperature): Essential for the rich, dreamy cheesecake center; room temperature ensures smooth blending.
Powdered sugar (⅓ cup): Delivers just the right amount of sweetness to the cheesecake filling without a gritty texture.
Fresh strawberries (¼ cup, chopped, for filling): These are folded straight into the cheesecake mixture for bursts of juicy flavor.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, room temperature): The secret to a super tender, flavorful cookie base.
Granulated sugar (½ cup): Gives sweetness and helps the cookies achieve the perfect texture.
Light brown sugar (½ cup): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel warmth.
Whole egg (1): Binds everything together for structure and richness.
Egg yolk (1): Provides extra chewiness and a little more decadence.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Classic, fragrant flavor that complements both cookie and cheesecake layers.
All-purpose flour (2½ cups): Forms the foundation of the cookies and keeps them pillowy.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a subtle lift so the cookies stay soft and thick.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Combines with brown sugar for extra tenderness and a golden finish.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Balances all the sweetness and makes the flavors pop.
Fresh strawberries (¾ cup, chopped, for dough): Laced throughout the dough for pretty pink flecks and more berry flavor in every bite.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Start by whipping the cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s soft, fluffy, and ready to embrace the sweetness. Add the powdered sugar and give it a quick mix on low until it’s mostly incorporated, then crank up the speed to beat until light and luscious. Fold in those perfectly chopped fresh strawberries for little bursts of berry flavor in every bite! Now, portion the creamy filling into 12 even scoops and pop them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze these cheesecake clouds for at least 3 hours (or overnight for convenience) until they’re firm.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

While your cheesecake centers chill, cream the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar on high until the mixture is creamy and pale—it should look a little like frosting. Beat in the whole egg, followed by the egg yolk for that extra richness, and pour in the vanilla extract for a fragrant finish. Now, sprinkle in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, mixing gently until everything is just combined and smooth. Finally, gently fold in the diced strawberries. Don’t overmix—handle with care so your cookies stay thick and beautifully marbled, without turning wet or streaky.

Step 3: Chill the Cookie Dough

Once your strawberry-studded dough is ready, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This time is essential to help the dough firm up, which not only makes stuffing easier but also keeps your cookies thick and bakery-style instead of flat and spread out.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F and get a baking sheet ready with parchment paper. With both dough and cheesecake filling chilled, use a cookie scoop to portion out 12 balls of dough. Press a generous indentation into each dough ball with the back of a spoon, nestle a frozen scoop of cheesecake filling right in the center, then gently wrap the dough around the filling. Roll each one into a neat ball, completely sealing in that creamy center.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Space out your filled cookies on the baking sheet (about 6 per standard pan, as they’ll spread a bit). Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until lightly golden and just set at the edges; you want them to stay soft in the middle. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up, then gently transfer to a wire rack to cool completely—that creamy cheesecake center will absolutely melt in your mouth!

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies

Garnishes

The beauty of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies is how much you can dress them up! A dusting of powdered sugar lends an elegant look, while a drizzle of melted white chocolate hints at the cheesecake flavor inside. For extra flair, add a single fresh strawberry slice or a sprig of mint right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a mug of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a fruit salad for a dessert platter that really pops! They also go wonderfully alongside a glass of cold milk or a tangy lemonade, making them versatile whether you’re hosting a summer party or cozying up indoors.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies on a tiered stand for a dreamy brunch spread, or box them up with ribbon as a gorgeous edible gift. For a truly memorable treat, set out bowls of chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or sprinkles so guests can build their own finishing touches. Kids in particular love the surprise cheesecake center, so let them break open a cookie on their own for maximum fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Thanks to the cheesecake filling, a little chill actually enhances their flavor and texture, making them taste even more like classic cheesecake in cookie form.

Freezing

For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully! Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking tray to freeze firm, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or on the counter for the perfect make-ahead dessert.

Reheating

If you love a gooey, just-baked center, microwave a cold or frozen Strawberry Cheesecake Cookie for about 10–15 seconds. The filling will turn extra creamy again, as if you just pulled them from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

You can substitute frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available—just thaw and drain them well, then blot dry to minimize extra moisture in your dough and filling. This helps prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.

Why does the filling need to be frozen?

Freezing the cheesecake filling is key for keeping the center intact during baking. If you use it while still soft, it may leak out or blend into the dough instead of staying as a velvety pocket inside.

What’s the best way to chop strawberries for the dough?

Cut your strawberries into small, even pieces—about a blueberry’s size or smaller. This ensures every bite of your Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies gets a burst of fruit and helps the pieces distribute evenly throughout the dough.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cookie dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to sit out at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping if it’s very firm from the chest.

What makes Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies different from regular cookies?

The magic is all in the dual textures and flavors—each cookie hides a creamy, tangy cheesecake center, surrounded by a soft, buttery, strawberry-flecked cookie. It’s like getting a miniature stuffed dessert in every single bite!

Final Thoughts

I promise, making Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies is as fun as eating them—and the reactions from friends and family who discover the cheesecake center are priceless! If you’ve been looking for a way to turn a favorite dessert into an unforgettable cookie, these are the sweet treat for you. Give them a try and don’t be surprised when they’re requested again and again!

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 6 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield: 12 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake filling nestled inside a soft, strawberry-studded cookie dough. Perfect for any occasion!

Instructions

Make the Cheesecake Filling Whip the cream cheese until fluffy. Add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Fold in strawberries. Freeze in scoops on a lined cookie sheet.
Make the Cookie Dough Cream butter and sugars. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients. Fold in strawberries. Chill dough.
Assemble the Stuffed Cookies and Bake Preheat oven. Portion out cookie dough, fill with cheesecake filling, and bake until golden brown. Cool before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature.
Chilling the dough is essential for the cookies to hold their shape during baking.
Experiment with different fruit fillings for a variety of flavors.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American