Looking for a dessert that combines the fruity sweetness of strawberries with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake? These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are everything you love in one bite: soft, flavorful cookie dough wrapped around a tangy, creamy cheesecake center, dusted in powdered sugar for a bakery-worthy finish. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress.
📝 Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) strawberry cake mix
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 6 oz cream cheese, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
For Rolling:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and well-blended. Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, form 1-teaspoon-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, mix the strawberry cake mix with the all-purpose flour. Add the melted butter and eggs. Stir until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15–20 minutes so it’s easier to handle.
3. Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the chilled cookie dough and flatten it into a disc. Place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling, making sure it’s completely sealed. Roll the dough ball in powdered sugar and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
4. Bake
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are just beginning to crack. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
⏱ Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: Makes approximately 18 cookies
- Calories: ~210 kcal per cookie
💡 Tips for Perfect Results
- Keep the Cream Cheese Cold: Make sure your cream cheese balls are well-frozen before assembly. If they soften, they may leak during baking.
- Seal the Dough Well: Fully encase the filling in cookie dough to avoid leakage.
- Use Quality Cake Mix: A moist, flavorful strawberry cake mix gives these cookies their standout taste.
- Optional Add-ins: Fold in mini white chocolate chips or chopped fresh strawberries for extra flair.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
🍓 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a mashup of two classic desserts: cookies and cheesecake. Here’s what makes them special:
- Creamy Center: The surprise cheesecake filling contrasts beautifully with the sweet, fluffy cookie exterior.
- Visually Stunning: The pink hue of the strawberry cookie dough is eye-catching, especially when dusted with powdered sugar.
- Versatile: Perfect for Valentine’s Day, baby showers, birthdays, summer gatherings, or anytime you want to impress.
- Kid-Friendly: Children love the color, the flavor, and the gooey center.
- Easy to Make: Using cake mix simplifies the recipe without sacrificing taste or texture.
🍽 Serving Ideas
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean or strawberry ice cream.
- Holiday Treat Boxes: Add these to a cookie box for a unique and flavorful twist.
- Tea Party Favorite: Pair with a floral tea or lemonade for a pretty presentation.
- Topped with Jam: Drizzle a bit of strawberry or raspberry jam over the top before serving for extra berry flavor.
🧁 Variations to Try
- Chocolate-Coated: Dip half the baked cookie in melted white or dark chocolate and let set.
- Lemon Cheesecake Filling: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese for a citrusy version.
- Berry Blend: Use a mixed berry cake mix or add freeze-dried berry powder to the dough.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free strawberry cake mix and flour blend.
🎉 Make It a Party!
Planning a gathering? These cookies can be made ahead and are easily scalable. Double the recipe and freeze extra dough balls (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.
Want an interactive dessert bar? Set up a cookie assembly station where guests fill and shape their own cookies before baking.
📦 Storing and Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store baked cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to enjoy that soft, melty center again.
🌟 Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are more than just a treat — they’re an experience. From the first bite into the sugary shell to the creamy filling at the center, they’re loaded with flavor, texture, and charm. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these cookies are practically foolproof and endlessly delightful.
Make a batch for your next get-together or simply to treat yourself — and don’t be surprised if you end up making them again and again!