Caramel cheesecake cookies are a delightful way to enjoy two favorite desserts in one bite. These cookies combine the creamy texture of cheesecake with the rich sweetness of caramel, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
I remember the first time I made these cookies; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to share them with friends.
In this cookie recipe, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and the process easy to follow. You’ve likely made cookies before, but adding the cheesecake layer elevates them to something truly special.
With a mix of flavors and textures, each bite offers a chewy cookie base topped with smooth cheesecake and a gooey caramel drizzle.
Whether you’re looking for a new dessert recipe to impress guests or a sweet treat for a cozy night in, caramel cheesecake cookies will not disappoint. Get ready to bring a little joy into your kitchen as you whip up these delicious cookies.
Why You Will Love Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Caramel cheesecake cookies are simply delightful. They bring together two favorite desserts in one tasty treat.
Imagine a chewy cookie base filled with creamy cheesecake and rich caramel.
These cookies have a soft and fluffy texture. The blend of graham crackers and a hint of cinnamon adds a unique twist. You will appreciate how the flavors combine to create something special.
The cookies can be topped with salted caramel for an extra layer of flavor. This adds a sweet and salty contrast that many people enjoy. If you’re a fan of cheesecake, you’ll love how the tangy cheesecake filling complements the cookies.
You might find recipes that mimic popular bakery versions. These copycat recipes let you recreate that indulgent treat right at home. You can even experiment by adding fruit, like raspberry, for a fresh touch.
The giant graham cracker cookie base makes these treats stand out. They are perfect for parties or a cozy night in. You can serve them warm for that gooey caramel experience.
Whether you choose to share or indulge alone, caramel cheesecake cookies are sure to please. They combine the best of both worlds—cookies and cheesecake—in a way that satisfies every sweet tooth.
How To Make Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Making caramel cheesecake cookies is a fun and delicious process. You’ll need a mix of ingredients to create a soft cookie with a rich cheesecake filling and a sweet caramel topping. Follow these steps to achieve a tasty treat.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to make your cookies:
- For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Caramel Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup quality caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
Instruments
To make the cookies, gather these instruments:
- Mixing Bowls: Use various sizes for mixing cookie dough and cheesecake filling.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: To cream butter and sugars easily.
- Baking Sheets: Line them with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
- Piping Bag: Optional, for putting the cheesecake filling in the cookies.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure you measure out the ingredients accurately.
- Cooling Rack: To let the cookies cool after baking.
Having all your instruments ready helps the baking process go smoothly.
Step By Step Instruction
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and graham cracker crumbs until just combined.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Cookies:
- Scoop cookie dough onto baking sheets.
- Use a piping bag to add cheesecake filling on top of each cookie dough scoop.
- Top with a little more cookie dough to cover.
- Bake: Bake for 11-13 minutes. Let the cookies cool before drizzling with caramel sauce and optional sea salt. Enjoy your homemade treats!
Tips & Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them blend well, giving your cookies a smooth texture.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and shapes well.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and helps cookies cook evenly.
- Store Properly: After baking, let your cookies cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for longer.
- Refrigeration: If you won’t eat the cookies within a few days, refrigerate them. They stay good for 3–4 days when refrigerated.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Place them in an airtight container for up to 6 months. They will taste great even after freezing.
- Topping Tips: Drizzle extra caramel over cookies just before serving. This adds a fresh, gooey texture that enhances the flavor.
- Baking Time: Check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. Every oven is different. You want them golden, but not overbaked.
- Serving Ideas: These cookies pair well with coffee or milk. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Ingredient Substitute
When making Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, you may need to substitute some ingredients. Here are a few options to consider:
Butter:
- Use salted butter if you don’t have unsalted butter. Just cut back on added salt in your recipe.
- Unsalted butter is preferred for better control over salt levels.
Sugars:
- If you’re out of granulated sugar, you can use chilled sugar as a substitute. It may change the texture slightly, but it will still add sweetness.
Caramel:
- For salted caramel flavor, you can make a homemade version with sugar, butter, and cream.
- If you prefer a non-cooked option, store-bought caramel sauce works well.
Cream Cheese:
- If cream cheese is not available, you can substitute with Greek yogurt. This will offer a different texture and flavor.
Graham Crackers:
- If you don’t have graham crackers for the crust flavor, try crushed cookies or vanilla wafers.
These substitutes can help you create delicious Caramel Cheesecake Cookies even if you are missing some ingredients. Adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences.
What To Serve With Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
When enjoying caramel cheesecake cookies, consider pairing them with a few tasty options. These pairings enhance the flavors and add to the dessert experience.
Beverages
- Coffee: A creamy latte or cappuccino complements the sweetness of the cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: Nothing beats cozying up with a warm mug of cocoa alongside your cookies.
- Milk: Classic and always a favorite, milk balances the richness of the cookies.
Ice Cream
Serve a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream with your cookies. The cold creaminess works well with the warm, gooey cookie texture.
Dessert Table Ideas
If you’re hosting, consider adding caramel cheesecake cookies to your dessert table.
- Pair them with other Crumbl cookies for variety.
- Include small servings of caramel dip for an extra sweet touch.
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little sea salt on top can enhance the flavors of your cookies. This sweet and salty combination is sure to please.
These suggestions can help elevate your caramel cheesecake cookies into a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with these pairings to find your favorites!
Nutrition Fact In List Form
Here is a summary of nutritional facts for caramel cheesecake cookies:
Caramel Cheesecake Crunch Cookies (2 cookies)
- Calories: 170
- Carbohydrates: 57%
- Fat: 38%
- Protein: 5%
- Calorie Density: 500 Calories per 100g
Caramel Cheesecake Cookie Monster (per 2/3 cup, 103g)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g (15% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 7g (35% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 45mg (15% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 135mg (6% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrate: 34g (12% Daily Value)
Sea Salt Caramel Cheesecake Cookies (2 cookies)
- Calories: 160
- Carbohydrates: 53%
- Fat: 45%
- Protein: 3%
- Calorie Density: 485 Calories per 100g
These values provide a clear picture of the nutritional content found in different types of caramel cheesecake cookies. Remember to check serving sizes as this can affect overall intake.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheets lined with parchment paper
- Piping bag (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Caramel Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup quality caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- Cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour, baking soda, salt, and graham cracker crumbs until just combined.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Scoop cookie dough onto the baking sheets.
- Use a piping bag or spoon to add cheesecake filling on top of each cookie dough scoop.
- Top with a little more cookie dough to cover the cheesecake filling.
- Bake:
- Bake for 11-13 minutes, until golden. Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack.
- Add the Caramel Drizzle:
- Once cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with optional sea salt.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (per 2 cookies):
- Calories: 170
- Carbohydrates: 57%
- Fat: 38%
- Protein: 5%
