Summer afternoons spend themselves in a sun-dappled haze, while the sweet scent of strawberries mingles with whispers of nostalgia. That’s exactly the inspiration behind these Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies with Homemade Strawberry Jam. This delightful recipe transforms the classic, indulgent dessert into a portable treat, bursting with flavor and creativity. Picture soft, chewy sugar cookies enveloping creamy cheesecake centers and juicy pockets of strawberry goodness—each bite is like a tender hug that’s perfect for picnics or cozy evening snacks. Not only are they vegetarian-friendly, but they also offer a fun twist on traditional desserts, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Are you ready to indulge in a baking adventure that evokes sunshine and sweet memories? Let’s dive into the world of effortless homemade deliciousness!
Why are these cookies so irresistible?
Unmatchable Flavor: The harmonious blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry jam creates a mouthwatering experience that transports you back to summer days.
Soft & Chewy Perfection: These cookies boast a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making them the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers will find joy in whipping up these delightful treats.
Versatile Variation: Feel free to swap in mixed berries or different jams for a unique twist, ensuring there’s always something new to try!
Spectacular Presentation: A light dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh berries elevates these cookies, making them perfect for gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Pair these cookies with a comforting cup of coffee or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try them alongside refreshing Fried Strawberry Cheesecake for an extraordinary dessert experience!
Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Strawberry Jam
• Finely Diced Fresh Strawberries – Adds a bright, fruity flavor; if fresh isn’t available, use thawed frozen strawberries, draining any excess water.
• Granulated Sugar (for jam) – Sweetens and thickens the jam; adjust based on the sweetness of the strawberries used.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream Cheese (softened) – Creates the rich, creamy center; you can substitute with full-fat yogurt for a lighter texture.
• Granulated Sugar (for filling) – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture, balancing the flavors.
• Vanilla Extract – Amplifies the overall flavor; opt for pure extract for the best results.
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter (softened) – Provides richness and moisture to the cookie base, making them soft and chewy.
• Granulated Sugar (for cookie dough) – Enhances sweetness and helps form the cookie structure.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binder while adding moisture to the dough.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cookies their structure; ensure accurate measurement for the best texture.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps these cookies achieve the perfect rise.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
For the Assembly
• Homemade Thick Strawberry Jam – Essential for creating flavorful pockets within the cookies; a thicker jam prevents excess moisture in the dough.
These Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are all about creating delightful moments and making memories through the love of baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Jam
Start by combining finely diced fresh strawberries and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture for about 45 minutes, mashing the strawberries halfway through to release their juices. Stir occasionally until the jam thickens and reduces to about 1/3 cup, then set it aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once well combined, divide it into 18 equal portions and flatten each into a disc. Place these discs on a parchment-lined tray and freeze them for at least 30 minutes until solid, ensuring they keep their shape in the cookies.
Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the large egg and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. This creates a moist and rich base for your Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, perfect for forming around the cheesecake center.
Step 5: Form the Cookies
Divide the cookie dough into four equal parts and create a flat layer of dough for each. Spoon a layer of the thick homemade strawberry jam onto each dough layer. Cut each layer into quarters and gently fold the corners to create pockets, encapsulating the jam. Scoop out 18 portions of this dough, ensuring each has a cheesecake disc at the center, and wrap the dough around to form a disc shape.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the formed cookie discs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 11-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear set but still soft. Remove the tray from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Expert Tips for Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
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Accurate Measurements: Use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale for the flour to avoid dense cookies. This can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture.
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Chill the Filling: Freezing the cheesecake filling discs is essential. It ensures they won’t leak out during baking, preserving the beautiful creamy center of your Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should look set but still soft in the center; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
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Room Temperature Dough: Allow the cookie dough to reach room temperature before baking. This helps achieve a softer, chewier texture after baking.
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Storage Solutions: Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked cookie dough for later enjoyment. Just remember to add extra baking time if baking from frozen!
Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful cookies to suit your flavor preferences and dietary needs!
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Mixed Berries: Substitute finely diced fresh strawberries with a blend of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant twist. This combination adds a delicious variety of flavors and colors that brighten up every bite!
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Jam Variety: Experiment with different flavored jams, like raspberry or peach, to create unique taste profiles. Each flavor adds its own charm, making each batch a delightful surprise for family and friends.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. These cookies will remain soft and delicious, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
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Chocolate Chips: Fold in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips into the cookie dough for an irresistible chocolatey touch. The creaminess of chocolate pairs beautifully with the cheesecake filling, creating a delightful balance.
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Nuts for Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch and deeper flavor. The nuts provide a lovely contrast to the soft, chewy texture of the cookies.
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Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle in a bit of cinnamon into the cookie dough for a warm, cozy flavor that brings an extra layer of comfort. This addition is especially delightful during the fall and winter months!
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Lemon Zest: Brighten the flavor by incorporating some fresh lemon zest into the cheesecake filling. This zesty twist will elevate the overall taste, making your cookies feel extra refreshing!
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Caramel Surprise: Place a small piece of caramel candy in the center along with the cheesecake filling for a rich, gooey surprise. The blend of caramel and cheesecake creates an indulgent treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
These Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are versatile enough to suit any occasion! And if you’re craving even more delicious desserts, consider trying my Apple Cider Cookies or Snowball Cookies Melt for unforgettable treats that will have your loved ones smiling.
What to Serve with Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Indulging in a batch of these cookies is just the beginning of a delightful culinary journey; pair them with these complementary treats for a complete experience.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful chill that balances the warm, gooey cookie centers and enhances the overall decadence.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a bright, juicy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making every bite feel light and invigorating.
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Mint-Infused Iced Tea: The cooling notes of mint tea harmonize beautifully with the rich strawberry flavors, creating a refreshing sip between cookie bites.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Elevate your dessert table with these sweet bites; their chocolatey richness complements the cookie’s strawberry cheesecake flavor while adding a touch of elegance.
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Creamy Cheesecake Dip: This luscious dip not only mirrors the cookie’s creamy center but also invites a fun pairing experience with graham crackers or fresh strawberries.
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Lemonade Sparklers: Bright, fizzy lemonade brings a burst of citrus that cuts through the sweetness, refreshing your palate while savoring these cookies.
Adding any of these delightful pairings alongside your Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies will create a sweet symphony of flavors that will leave everyone reaching for more!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: For slightly longer storage, place the cookies in the fridge where they can last up to a week, though they may become a bit firmer.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 2 weeks. This preserves the soft texture and strawberry flavor.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat cookies in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes once thawed, or enjoy them straight from the freezer for a cool twist!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the homemade strawberry jam and cheesecake filling up to 3 days in advance. Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and the cheesecake discs can be frozen until solid (use within 1 month for best quality). When you’re ready to assemble and bake, simply bring the cold filling to room temperature while you prep the cookie dough. Form the cookies with the chilled jam and freezer-firm filling, then bake as directed for delicious, fresh-out-of-the-oven treats that are just as scrumptious as if you made them from scratch that day!
Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right strawberries for the jam?
Absolutely! Look for fresh strawberries that are bright red with no dark spots or signs of mold. They should be firm to the touch and smell sweet. If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your jam.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store your Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for about a week, though they may lose some of their soft chewiness.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. To do this, shape the dough into discs, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra minute or two to the baking time!
What should I do if the cheesecake filling leaks during baking?
If you find that your cheesecake filling is leaking, it’s likely because it wasn’t frozen long enough. Always ensure the discs are solid before enveloping them in cookie dough. If accidents happen, simply keep an eye on the cookies and accept that the flavor will still be delightful, even if the presentation is a bit “rustic.”
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free as well. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly!
Are these cookies suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, the Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies contain cream cheese and butter, which are dairy products. However, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter alternatives to create a suitable version for those with dairy allergies.
Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Bursting with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine finely diced fresh strawberries and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 45 minutes, mashing the strawberries halfway through. Stir occasionally until the jam thickens, then set aside to cool.
- Blend softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Divide into 18 equal portions, flatten each into a disc, and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- Beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Divide cookie dough into four equal parts, spoon a layer of thick homemade strawberry jam onto each layer, then fold corners to encapsulate jam. Scoop 18 portions ensuring a cheesecake disc is at the center.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange cookie discs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, bake for 11-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft. Cool on tray for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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