Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a dreamy fusion of two beloved desserts—cheesecake and cookies—wrapped into one irresistible treat. These indulgent cookies feature a rich, creamy cheesecake filling tucked inside soft, golden cookie dough, finished with a luscious swirl of salted caramel on top. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet and salty, with the comforting texture of a cookie and the decadent creaminess of cheesecake.

Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or whenever you’re craving something special, these cookies are as impressive as they are delicious. The tangy cheesecake center complements the sweet caramel and buttery dough, while a touch of sea salt on top enhances the flavors and adds a gourmet finish. Though they look fancy, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients, and they’re guaranteed to be a hit wherever they’re served. If you love salted caramel and cheesecake, these cookies might just become your new favorite dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Two Desserts in One – Combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the chewy satisfaction of cookies.
2. Perfect Sweet-Salty Balance – Salted caramel brings out the best in the creamy and buttery components.
3. Beautiful Presentation – Gorgeous swirls and golden edges make these cookies look bakery-worthy.
4. Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for holidays, gifting, parties, or a sweet treat with coffee.
5. Freezer-Friendly – Make a batch in advance and enjoy whenever the craving hits.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese
• Sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Salted caramel sauce
• Sea salt (for garnish)

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle

Add a drizzle of dark or milk chocolate over the caramel for extra richness.

Pretzel Crust

Incorporate crushed pretzels into the dough for a crunchy, salty twist.

Nutty Addition

Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for added texture.

Spiced Dough

Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, autumn flavor.

Mini Cheesecake Bites

Make smaller, bite-sized cookies for a party platter or dessert table.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla until smooth. Chill mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until fluffy. Mix in egg and vanilla, followed by flour and baking soda. Chill the dough briefly if it’s too soft.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Scoop a portion of cookie dough, flatten it slightly, and add a spoonful of the cheesecake mixture in the center. Wrap the dough around it to seal.

Step 4: Bake

Place cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until golden at the edges. Let cool slightly.

Step 5: Add Caramel and Salt

Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle with salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chill the cheesecake filling for easier assembly.
• Don’t overbake—the cookies should be soft and slightly gooey in the center.
• Use a cookie scoop for even portions.
• Let cookies cool completely before adding caramel.
• Store with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a glass of cold milk or cup of coffee.
• Add to a holiday dessert platter or cookie gift box.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Crumble over a scoop of ice cream for a cheesecake sundae twist.
• Enjoy as a luxurious afternoon treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze raw cookie dough balls (without caramel) for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the time. You can also freeze fully baked cookies.

Reheating

Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften and enhance the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel works great. Just make sure it’s thick enough to drizzle.

2. Do I need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps prevent spreading and makes assembly easier.

3. Can I skip the sea salt?

You can, but it really enhances the flavor. Use flaky sea salt for best results.

4. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Check caramel and other ingredients for gluten as well.

5. What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat brick-style cream cheese works best for structure and richness.

6. Can I use caramel candies instead?

Not recommended—they don’t melt the same way and may harden in the center.

7. How do I avoid leaking cheesecake filling?

Make sure the dough fully seals around the filling, and chill if it’s too soft.

8. What if my dough is too sticky?

Chill it for 20–30 minutes before assembling.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. These cookies freeze well, so making a big batch is a great idea.

10. Are these good for gifting?

Yes! Just make sure to pack them carefully, especially with the caramel on top.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a show-stopping dessert that deliver everything you love about cheesecake and cookies in one decadent bite. With their gooey caramel topping, creamy center, and perfectly soft cookie base, they’re impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies promise rich flavor and a memorable experience. Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to favorite in your baking repertoire.

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