01 -
Combine strawberries and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the strawberries release their juices and soften, about 5 minutes. Add the cornstarch-water mixture and lemon juice; cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
02 -
With a mixer, beat softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together in a small bowl until completely smooth and creamy. Line a tray with parchment paper, drop teaspoon-sized portions onto it, and freeze for at least 30 minutes to ensure firmness.
03 -
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy, for 2 to 3 minutes. Blend in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Gradually fold in dry ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
04 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten slightly. Enclose a frozen cheesecake filling ball within the dough, and cover with an additional tablespoon of dough, sealing edges. Gently flatten the cookie. Spoon approximately 1/2 teaspoon cooled strawberry sauce on top of each cookie and marble with a toothpick if desired.
05 -
Bake for 11 to 13 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
06 -
Once fully cooled, serve the cookies with milk or coffee and enjoy the creamy, strawberry-filled centers.