As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of strawberries filled the air, pulling me back to summers spent at my grandmother’s house, where she taught me the magic of baking. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that captures those memories: Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. These delightful cookies are a wonderful fusion of crispy exteriors and chewy centers, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. One of the best parts? You can easily prepare the dough ahead of time, making your baking experience a breeze. Plus, this recipe is super versatile; swap out the strawberry jam for your favorite fruit jam to create your unique twist. Ready to take your dessert game to the next level? Let’s dive into these cookies and discover just how delicious a homemade treat can be!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and tangy taste of strawberry jam combined with creamy frosting makes each bite a delightful treat.
Crispy Meets Chewy: The contrast of the crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior creates a textural explosion that is simply addicting.
Make-Ahead Magic: You can chill the dough and bake later, making this recipe perfect for last-minute gatherings or busy days.
Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? Substitute the strawberry jam with raspberry or apricot for a refreshing twist. Try adding chocolate chips for even more yum!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for any occasion, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family, just like my Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles will!
Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Strawberry Jam – Provides sweetness and fruity flavor; substitute with raspberry or apricot jam if desired.
- Cream Cheese – Adds rich and creamy texture to both cookies and frosting; no substitutions recommended.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to the chewy texture.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape.
- Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise for a perfect texture.
- Butter – Contributes to flavor and moisture; ensure it is softened for easy mixing.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together, giving the cookies their delightful chewiness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; make sure to use pure extract for best results.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Essential for a rich, velvety frosting; again, no substitutions recommended.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps it achieve that light, fluffy texture.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Cream Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is creamy and light, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add one egg and one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking soda, combining just until a dough forms. Gently fold in ½ cup of strawberry jam until evenly distributed.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Once the dough is prepared, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. Chilling the dough is an essential step to achieving the perfect texture for your Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies. When ready, the dough will be firm yet pliable, making it easy to scoop into cookie portions.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy release. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Step 4: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cookies are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat 8 ounces of cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing well until the frosting is light and airy. This will add a delightful creaminess to your Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.
Step 5: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled on a wire rack, it’s time to frost them. Using a spatula or a piping bag, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over each cookie. Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes, then serve these delightful Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies to friends and family, or enjoy them yourself!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats even on the busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it; this enhances the flavors and keeps the dough fresh. The finished cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen (unfrosted) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and bake as instructed. Frost them with cream cheese frosting after they’ve cooled, and you’ll have delightful, freshly baked cookies ready to impress!
Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Variations
Feel free to play around with these variations for a fun twist on the classic flavors!
- Jam Swap: Substitute strawberry jam with raspberry or apricot for a delightful new flavor. This small change can completely transform your cookies!
- Chocolate Love: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent touch. The combination of creamy chocolate and fruity strawberry is pure bliss.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor. The nutty texture pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting.
- Zesty Lemon: Incorporate zest from one lemon into your cookie dough for a refreshing citrusy kick. It brightens the flavors beautifully and adds a lovely aroma.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make these cookies gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The results will still be scrumptious!
- Heat Things Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising warmth that complements the sweetness.
- Creamier Frosting: Consider mixing a little whipped cream into the cream cheese frosting for a lighter, fluffier texture. It’s perfect for those who love a softer frosting.
- Mini Treats: Bake smaller versions by using a teaspoon instead of a tablespoon to scoop the dough. These bite-sized cookies are great for gatherings, and just as delicious!
For even more delicious ideas, check out my Caramel Brownie Cheesecake or try whipping up some delightful Chocolate Oat Cookies. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
- Chill Time is Key: Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours ensures the cookies maintain their shape and achieve the perfect texture.
- Baking Precision: Overbaking can turn your cookies dry—aim for a golden edge with a soft center to keep them chewy and delicious.
- Creamy Frosting Tip: For a smoother cream cheese frosting, mix at medium speed and ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before beating.
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Use pure vanilla extract and high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor in your Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.
- Experiment Freely: Feel free to swap out the strawberry jam for your favorite preserves to create unique flavor combinations that your family will love!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delightful.
Fridge: If you want your cookies to last a little longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent dryness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your un-frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet; once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature before frosting, bringing back that fresh-baked experience to your Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies!
What to Serve with Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Treat yourself to an array of delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement these irresistible cookies.
-
Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing burst that balances the sweetness of the cookies. The vibrant colors also elevate your dessert spread!
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the chewy cookies, creating a luscious dessert experience. Consider adding a drizzle of strawberry sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
-
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or fragrant tea enhances the cookie experience, offering a cozy, comforting feel during your treat time. The warmth contrasts nicely with the cool cream cheese frosting.
-
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: This indulgent addition invites a rich, sweet contrast to your strawberry cookies. Dip half of each cookie into the sauce for a scrumptious combination of flavors.
-
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream offers a tropical twist that brightens up the overall dessert. Its creamy texture wonderfully complements the cookies.
-
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea provides a zesty counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies. Their citrusy notes enliven your palate and enhance the overall enjoyment.
-
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These salty-sweet snacks create a delightful crunch alongside your cookies. They provide a fun textural contrast that elevates your dessert table.
-
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings freshness and balance to the meal, cutting through the sweetness while adding color and vitality to your presentation.
-
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a bubbly pairing, sparkling water with a touch of lime brings a subtle savoriness to the mix, cleansing the palate after each delightful bite.
Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for the recipe?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are deep red in color with a fresh green cap. They should be firm to the touch but slightly fragrant. Avoid any that have dark spots or excess bruising, as these indicate over-ripeness.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
For the best flavor and texture, store your Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them cold, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days, ensuring they are properly sealed to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Of course! To freeze your Cookies, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and pop them in the freezer until firm, about 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen un-frosted for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before adding the frosting.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your cookies spread more than expected, it could be because your butter was too warm or not enough flour was added. Ensure the butter is softened but not melted, and when measuring flour, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing it too tightly. Chilling the dough adequately before baking is also crucial to maintain their shape.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, these Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies do not contain any nuts in the ingredients listed, making them a safe option for nut-allergy sufferers. However, always check the packaging of your ingredients to ensure there’s no cross-contamination and to be extra cautious if serving guests with allergies.
What kind of dietary substitutions can I make?
Certainly! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use an egg substitute like applesauce or flaxseed meal for a vegan version. Also, feel free to swap out the strawberry jam for other fruit jams, such as raspberry or apricot, to tailor the flavor to your liking. These adjustments will offer you a delightful twist while keeping the overall essence of the cookie intact!
Crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Cream Cheese Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat until creamy and light, about 3-4 minutes. Add one egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking soda, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in ½ cup of strawberry jam until evenly distributed.
- Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop rounded balls of dough onto the sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden, and centers are slightly soft.
- While cookies bake, prepare cream cheese frosting by beating 8 ounces of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until light and airy.
- Frost cooled cookies with cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag.
Leave a Reply