Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries in a soft, chewy cookie. These cookies are perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, fruity dessert!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Timing

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking, plus additional time for cooling.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Incorporate Cream Cheese: Gently fold in the softened cream cheese, chopped strawberries, and white chocolate chips (if using) until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
3. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: If desired, top with additional chopped strawberries before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve these delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies warm or at room temperature!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies (per cookie, based on 24 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180
Protein	2g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	24g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	10g

Tips for Customization

• Add Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest into the dough for a citrusy twist.
• Use Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are a delicious and fun dessert that brings together the classic flavors of strawberry cheesecake in a cookie form. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy this delightful recipe!