Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies (Print Version)

Buttery cookies filled with creamy cheesecake and juicy strawberries for the perfect sweet treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 large egg yolk
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
08 - 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, diced

→ Cheesecake Filling

09 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
10 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
11 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until pale and fluffy.
02 - Add the whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, beating just until fully combined.
03 - Fold in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is just combined, ensuring not to overmix the dough.
04 - Gently fold the diced strawberries into the dough, being careful to keep the fruit pieces intact.
05 - In a separate small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. If the mixture is too soft, chill briefly to firm.
06 - Scoop generous portions of cookie dough and shape into large balls. Press a small indent into the center of each ball, add a spoonful of the chilled cheesecake filling, and enclose the filling by sealing the dough around it.
07 - Place the filled dough balls onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm the dough.
08 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and centers just set.
09 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Chilling the dough before baking helps prevent spreading and ensures a soft, thick cookie with a creamy center.