If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that beautifully blends the creamy tang of cheesecake with the indulgent sweetness of caramel, then look no further than this Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie that reveals a gooey cheesecake center kissed with pockets of luscious caramel bits—the best of two worlds fused into one irresistible treat. These cookies aren’t just delightful; they’re a showstopper for any occasion, guaranteed to grab everyone’s attention and keep them coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in building the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the creamy, rich cream cheese that melts into the cookie center to the sweet bursts of caramel that surprise your palate, each element is crucial yet wonderfully simple to work with.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: This is the heart of the cheesecake filling, adding tangy creaminess that makes every bite heavenly.
- 2 tbsp sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cheesecake filling just enough without overpowering.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Enhances the flavor depth within the creamy filling.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: The base for the cookie dough, providing moisture and richness.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds warmth and a subtle molasses flavor for chewy texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness with a slight crunch.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough together while keeping the cookies tender.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for dough): Brings a fragrant note that complements both cookie and filling.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookie, ensuring a soft yet sturdy bite.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Lightens the dough so your cookies don’t turn out dense.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 1/2 cup caramel bits: Bursts of molten caramel sweeten and create delightful texture within the dough.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Start by beating the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until you get a luxuriously smooth and creamy mixture. This luscious cheesecake filling is the magic center that makes these cookies so special. Set this aside while you craft the cookie dough.
Step 2: Create the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light, giving your cookies that perfect chewy softness. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract to bring everything together. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly combine the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing until just blended—overmixing will toughen your cookies. Fold in those irresistible caramel bits gently but evenly, sprinkling little surprises of caramel throughout the dough.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things neat. Use a spoon to dollop portions of cookie dough onto the sheet—these little mounds are about to become the stars of your dessert table. On half of the dollops, spoon some of the cheesecake filling, layering it carefully without spreading. Top each filled dollop with another spoonful of cookie dough and press the edges lightly to seal the cheesecake in its cozy cookie jacket. This step creates those gooey centers everyone loves.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled cookies into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, watching for golden edges while the centers remain soft and inviting. This contrast is exactly what makes the Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe so irresistible. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely—if you can wait that long!
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but if you want to fancy them up, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the flavor by adding a perfect salty-sweet contrast that highlights both the creamy cheesecake and rich caramel.
Side Dishes
Serve your caramel cheesecake cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate treat. The cold creaminess of the ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, gooey cookie, while coffee’s slight bitterness balances out the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, arrange the cookies on a tiered dessert tray, interspersed with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sandwich two cookies with extra cheesecake filling in the center to create a pinch-hitter cheesecake cookie sandwich—trust me, it’s a showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cookies maintain their soft texture beautifully but be sure to store them away from heat and humidity to keep the caramel bits from melting too much.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving—this is a brilliant way to have a quick dessert ready whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
If you want that freshly-baked taste back, warm the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. This brings back the soft, melty texture of the cheesecake filling and revitalizes the caramel goodness inside.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in the Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe?
While low-fat cream cheese can be used, it might affect the richness and creaminess of the cheesecake filling. For the best texture and flavor, regular full-fat cream cheese is recommended.
Do I have to use caramel bits, or can I substitute with something else?
You can swap caramel bits for chopped soft caramel candies or even butterscotch chips. Just keep in mind that caramel bits are designed to hold their shape when baked, so substitutions might alter the texture slightly.
Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain structure.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, doubling the recipe works great and you will simply bake them in batches unless you have a very large oven. Just be sure to keep the dough chilled if you are baking over an extended time to maintain quality.
What’s the best way to prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking?
Be careful when sealing the cookie edges by gently but firmly pressing them together. Avoid overfilling and use just enough filling to leave some dough around the edges. Chilling the dough briefly before baking can also help the cookies hold their shape better.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about the union of creamy cheesecake and sweet caramel inside a soft cookie, and this Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe hits that note perfectly. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon treat, a party favorite, or a little gift from the heart, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and maybe even a happy dance. I can’t wait for you to try them and see just how addictive this combination can be!
Print
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these delightful Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, featuring a soft, buttery cookie exterior filled with a creamy, sweet cheesecake center and studded with rich caramel bits. Perfectly baked to achieve golden edges and a gooey core, these cookies combine the best of two beloved desserts in every bite.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup caramel bits
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set this mixture aside to be used later as the luscious cheesecake center.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, combining thoroughly. Fold in the caramel bits evenly throughout the dough.
- Assemble the Cookies: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon out dollops of cookie dough onto the sheet. Place a small spoonful of the prepared cheesecake filling onto half of the dollops. Top each with another dollop of cookie dough and gently press the edges together to seal, creating filled cookies with a gooey cheesecake core inside.
- Bake with Care: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled cookies on the parchment-lined sheet for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges turn golden while the centers remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely and set.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are properly softened to achieve a smooth batter and easier mixing.
- Seal the cookie dough edges completely to prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking during baking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Allow cookies to cool fully for best texture and flavor.
- You can substitute caramel bits with chocolate chips or toffee bits for variation.
