Get ready to indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling. Soft, gooey, and lusciously sweet, these cookies combine creamy cheesecake flavor with a burst of fruity jam right in the center, creating an irresistible treat that melts in your mouth every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to brighten your day with a delicious homemade snack, this recipe is a sure winner that will quickly become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The creamy cheesecake and tangy strawberry jam blend harmoniously in every bite.
- Soft and Gooey Texture: These cookies stay delightfully tender, with a luscious jam center that oozes sweetness.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, these cookies are approachable for bakers of all levels.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend treat, party favor, or holiday dessert, they’re sure to impress.
- Customizable Recipe: The filling and dough can be adapted for different flavors and dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling recipe plays a vital role—from creating the tender dough to delivering that rich cheesecake flavor and sweet strawberry punch. Here’s what makes this recipe so special:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookie dough that ensures the right structure and softness.
- Cream Cheese: Adds that signature creamy richness crucial for the cheesecake flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly without overpowering the strawberry jam.
- Unsalted Butter: Provides moisture and a tender crumb for each cookie.
- Egg: Acts as a binder and adds richness to the dough.
- Baking Powder: Gives the cookies a light rise and fluffy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Elevates the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Strawberry Jam: The heart of the jam filling, offering a fresh, fruity burst inside every bite.
Variations for strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling
Feel free to get creative and customize your strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some easy swaps and additions to keep your baking exciting:
- Swap the Jam: Try raspberry, blueberry, or apricot jam for a different fruity twist.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to keep the cookies soft and delicious.
- Chocolate Chips: Add mini white or dark chocolate chips to the dough for extra richness.
- Nutty Add-Ins: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds for crunch and texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
How to Make strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and fluffy. Add granulated sugar and beat well to combine. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, gently folding to create a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds together well.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
Step 3: Form the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out about one tablespoon of dough, flatten it slightly in your palm, then place a small dollop of strawberry jam in the center. Gently fold the edges of the dough around the jam and roll into a smooth ball, ensuring the jam is completely sealed inside.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Arrange the filled dough balls on the lined baking sheet, leaving enough space for spreading. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Once cooled slightly, bite into the soft cookie to discover the gooey strawberry jam and creamy cheesecake center. These strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling are best enjoyed fresh but also store well for later indulgence.
Pro Tips for Making strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling—it prevents the jam from leaking during baking.
- Seal Jam Well: Make sure the dough completely envelops the jam to avoid spills.
- Use High-Quality Cream Cheese: Fresh cream cheese makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies when edges are lightly golden for maximum softness.
- Use a Small Scoop: Helps create uniform cookies and prevents overfilling with jam.
How to Serve strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling
Garnishes
Dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle some melted white chocolate over them for added sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh strawberry slices on the side enhance the flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee or tea for a well-rounded dessert experience. A light mixed berry salad can also complement the fruity filling wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies in a beautiful tiered dessert stand at parties or wrap individual cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts. You can also sandwich two cookies together with extra jam in the middle for a double-layer delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Freezing
These cookies freeze wonderfully—place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Warm the cookies gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes to revive their soft, gooey texture and enhance their inviting aroma.
FAQs
Can I use other types of jam for these cookies?
Absolutely! While strawberry jam is classic, raspberry, blueberry, or apricot jams work equally well and provide delicious variations.
How do I prevent the jam from leaking out?
Make sure to seal the dough tightly around the jam filling by pinching it closed and smoothing the surface before baking. Chilling the dough also helps keep everything intact.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Yes, these cookies are soft, sweet, and mild in flavor, making them perfect treats for children to enjoy or help make in the kitchen.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives to create a dairy-free version while maintaining delicious flavor.
What is the best way to store these cookies overnight?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and soft—avoid refrigeration as it may dry out the cookies.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try these strawberry cheesecake cookies with jam filling, you’ll want to bake them again and again. They’re easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and treat yourself to the gooey, creamy delight that only these cookies can deliver!