You Must Know
These cookies are filled with real fruit and a creamy center for a unique twist on classic cookies
Cream cheese filling can be made ahead and frozen for quick baking later
Cookie dough is sturdy and works well with a variety of add-ins
My favorite part is swirling the strawberry jam into the dough It looks gorgeous and reminds me of making jam with my grandmother on sunny afternoons She always insisted on tucking an extra spoon of jam into her cookies
Storage Tips
Keep these cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Because of the cream cheese filling they are best stored chilled Let them return to room temperature before serving for the creamiest center You can also freeze baked cookies for up to two months Wrap each one well and thaw overnight in the fridge so the filling stays smooth
Ingredient Substitutions
If fresh strawberries are out of season frozen berries work well for the jam simply thaw and drain extra juice before cooking You can use store-bought strawberry jam in a pinch but homemade gives a brighter flavor For a tangier filling use neufchatel instead of regular cream cheese or swap some vanilla for lemon zest in the cheesecake mixture
Serving Suggestions
I love these cookies served with a glass of cold milk or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat A platter of these cookies makes any spring brunch special and they carry well for picnics or school bake sales
A stack of red strawberry cheesecake cookies.
Save
A stack of red strawberry cheesecake cookies. | lilicooks.com
Cultural and Historical Context
Strawberry cheesecake is a true American classic often served at celebrations and holidays These cookies take the best parts of the original dessert and pack them into a handheld treat perfect for sharing The swirled jam and creamy center remind me of old-fashioned bakery treats popular at summer fairs
Ezoic
Pro Tips
For the smoothest cheesecake center always start with room temperature cream cheese
Do not overmix the dough after adding strawberries to keep the pieces intact
Swirl jam gently for a beautiful marbled cookie without turning the dough pink
Recipe FAQs
→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the jam?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen strawberries well before dicing and cooking into jam. Fresh berries yield the best texture.
→ How do I keep the cheesecake filling from leaking?
Freeze the cheesecake filling until firm and seal it completely inside the dough to prevent leaks during baking.
→ Why chill the cookie dough before baking?
Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading, ensures the cheesecake center stays in place, and enhances the final texture.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store at room temperature for up to one day, or refrigerate in an airtight container for longer freshness due to the cream cheese center.
→ Can I skip making homemade strawberry jam?
Using homemade jam gives the best flavor, but a high-quality store-bought strawberry jam can be substituted if needed.
→ What helps shape sticky cookie dough?
Dampen your hands with water or use a bit of non-stick spray to make shaping easier and reduce sticking.
