Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is an irresistible treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the chewy texture of cookies. These delightful cookies are perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. The standout features of this recipe include a luscious cheesecake filling and a rich salted caramel topping, making these cookies a unique dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet and salty flavors, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious cookies.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in, they can easily become your go-to dessert.
- Impressive Presentation: The combination of the cheesecake swirl and caramel drizzle makes these cookies visually stunning.
- Crowd-Pleaser: They’re sure to impress family and friends, making them a hit at any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Piping bag or ziplock bag
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough quickly.
- Piping bag or ziplock bag: Makes it easy to fill cookies with cheesecake filling without making a mess.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the cookies evenly.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) thick caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
How to Make Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or ziplock bag. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes until slightly firm.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough. Flatten it slightly in your hand to form a disc. Place about a heaping teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center and fold the dough around it, sealing well. Shape into a tall ball to encourage thickness while baking. Place on a prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches between each cookie. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before baking.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. If desired, gently press down on each cookie’s center right after baking to create wells for toppings. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Once cooled completely, pipe a swirl of chilled cheesecake filling on top of each cookie. Next, pipe thick caramel sauce over this layer or directly onto each cookie if preferred. Finally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty finish.
Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Serving Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cookies bring a delightful twist to dessert time.
With Coffee
- Pair these cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a comforting experience. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor. This adds a creamy texture and turns the treat into an indulgent dessert.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual cookies in fancy packaging as party favors. They make great gifts that guests will love to take home.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced apples. The fruity freshness balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange them on a dessert platter with other treats for a stunning visual display. Mix with brownies, cupcakes, or fruit tarts for variety.
With Whipped Cream
- Dollop some whipped cream on top of the cookies for added richness. A sprinkle of cocoa powder can enhance the visual appeal and flavor.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
To ensure your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth dough and creamy filling.
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Chill before baking: Chilling the assembled cookies helps prevent them from spreading too much in the oven, keeping their shape intact.
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Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them when the edges are golden but the centers still look soft for the best texture.
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Let cool properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps maintain their structure.
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Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like drizzled chocolate or crushed nuts along with caramel for added flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
These Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:
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Chocolate Mousse: A rich and airy chocolate mousse complements the sweetness of the cookies while adding an elegant touch.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the dense flavors of salted caramel and cheesecake.
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Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses such as brie and gouda to balance sweetness with savory notes.
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Coffee Cake: The moist texture of coffee cake pairs well with these cookies, making it perfect for brunch gatherings.
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Pudding Cups: Individual pudding cups can be an easy dessert option that kids and adults alike will enjoy alongside your cookies.
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Mini Cupcakes: Offer mini cupcakes in complementary flavors like vanilla or chocolate for a delightful variety on your dessert table.
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Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide crunch and healthiness that contrasts nicely with sweet treats.
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Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that also satisfies sweet cravings without being overly indulgent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the assembled cookies can lead to excess spreading. Always chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined for soft and chewy results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if possible.
- Piping Hot Caramel Sauce: Using hot caramel can melt the cheesecake layer. Let it cool slightly before drizzling it on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last about 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Place cookies in a freezer-safe container with layers of parchment paper between them.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe.
Can I use different types of cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a different flavor profile, but it may alter the texture slightly.
How do I make homemade caramel sauce?
To make homemade caramel sauce, melt sugar over medium heat until golden brown, then carefully stir in butter and cream until smooth.
Can I customize my cookies?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon to enhance the flavor of your salted caramel cheesecake cookies.
What is the best way to serve these cookies?
These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea and are perfect for special occasions or as a cozy dessert at home.
Final Thoughts
The Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize this treat according to your taste preferences by adding various toppings or mix-ins. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, a perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake and chewy cookie goodness. These irresistible treats feature a luscious cheesecake filling nestled within a buttery cookie, all topped with rich salted caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Whether for parties, holidays, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, these cookies are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them. With easy-to-follow instructions and common ingredients, you can whip up this gourmet dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Get ready to elevate your baking game with these decadent delights!
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1/2 cup thick caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the cheesecake filling by mixing cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Transfer to a piping bag and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat softened butter with both sugars until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough; flatten slightly. Place a heaping teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center and fold dough around it into a ball. Chill for 20-30 minutes before baking.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. Cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, pipe additional cheesecake filling on top of each cookie and drizzle with caramel sauce; sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg