A Sweet Twist on Classic Cookies

Cookies are beloved worldwide, but this recipe takes them to the next level with a creamy cheesecake filling. The combination of buttery cookie dough, tart freeze-dried strawberries, and rich strawberry cheesecake center creates a bakery-style treat you can make at home. This dessert has roots in American cookie culture but with a creative twist inspired by cheesecake lovers. Whether for family gatherings, bake sales, or a sweet late-night snack, these cookies are always a hit.

Why Strawberries and Cheesecake Work So Well

Strawberries are packed with natural sweetness and antioxidants, making them not just delicious but also beneficial for heart health and skin. Paired with cream cheese, which adds smooth tanginess and richness, the two create a perfect flavor balance. The freeze-dried strawberries in the dough bring bursts of fruity flavor, while the cheesecake filling melts into the center for an indulgent surprise. It’s this contrast of textures—crispy edges, soft center, and creamy filling—that makes these cookies irresistible.

How to Enjoy These Stuffed Cookies

These cookies are versatile and can be served warm with milk, chilled for a firmer cheesecake bite, or even frozen and enjoyed like an ice cream sandwich. They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, Valentine’s Day treats, or weekend baking with kids. Pair them with coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Once you try them, you’ll see why stuffed cookies are trending across the U.S. right now.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup strawberry jam or puree

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and strawberry jam until smooth. Cover and refrigerate to firm up.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Beat butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry mixture into wet mixture until dough forms. Fold in freeze-dried strawberries. Chill dough for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Flatten 1 tablespoon of dough, add ½ teaspoon filling in the center, and top with another flattened tablespoon of dough. Seal edges and roll into a ball. Place on baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes until edges are golden. Cool before serving.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour

Nutrition (Per Cookie – Approximate)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Sugar: 14 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Sodium: 120 mg

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

Q1: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Yes, but freeze-dried strawberries give a stronger flavor and won’t add extra moisture. Fresh strawberries can make the dough too soft, so use sparingly.

Q2: How do I store these cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.

Q3: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare and refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the filled cookie dough balls and bake straight from the freezer—just add 2–3 minutes to the baking time.

Q4: What variations can I try?

You can swap strawberry jam with raspberry, blueberry, or even Nutella for a fun twist. Adding white chocolate chips to the dough also makes them extra decadent.