If you’ve stumbled upon this recipe, you’re likely captivated by the beauty of these Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. With a rich caramel drizzle and a soft, cheesecake-inspired center, these cookies offer a luxurious treat that’s totally worth every calorie. The combination of a buttery cookie, tangy cheesecake, and silky caramel, topped off with a dash of flaky sea salt, makes each bite a balanced indulgence. Curious about the magic that happens in the oven? Let’s dive in!
How the “Double Layer” Effect Happens
One of the most fascinating aspects of these cookies is how the dough transforms into a beautiful “double layer” look. The cheesecake filling is wrapped inside a single layer of cookie dough. As the cookies bake, the dough spreads around the filling, forming two distinct layers. You’ll end up with a sturdy, golden-brown base and a slightly sunken, softer center that cradles the creamy cheesecake.
This combination of textures creates the perfect “well” in the center, ideal for holding that decadent swirl of caramel sauce. The result? A visually striking cookie with a variety of textures in each bite.
Ingredients for Perfect Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
To bake these delicious cookies, you’ll need just a few essential ingredients:
- For the Cookie Dough: Classic pantry staples like flour, baking soda, baking powder, butter, and sugars (granulated and brown) give you a soft, chewy base.
- For the Cheesecake Filling: Cream cheese, sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract create a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweetness of the dough.
- For the Topping: A generous drizzle of caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt bring that perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. This filling will be thick enough to hold its shape when piped. Set it aside while you prepare the cookie dough.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients.
- Enrobe the Cheesecake Filling: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, flatten it slightly, and place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Fold the dough around the filling, completely sealing it.
- Bake and Watch the Magic: As the cookies bake, the dough spreads around the filling, creating a firm outer layer and a soft, cheesecake-like center. This forms a well in the middle, perfect for a swirl of caramel sauce.
- Add the Toppings: Once baked and cooled, pipe a swirl of cheesecake filling on top of each cookie (optional but gives a bakery-style look). Drizzle with caramel sauce and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Chill the Dough: If your dough is soft, chill it for 20-30 minutes before shaping. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake the cookies until the edges are golden, but don’t overbake. They should remain soft in the center.
- Use Thick Caramel Sauce: Choose a thick caramel sauce, or chill a runny store-bought sauce to make sure it holds its shape on the cookies.
- Add Sea Salt Just Before Serving: This keeps the salt crunchy and maintains the perfect balance of flavors.
Creative Ways to Serve Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
- Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of the caramel and the tang of the cream cheese filling complement a rich cup of coffee or a cozy mug of hot chocolate.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Warm up the cookies slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an extra indulgence.
- Gift Them: These cookies make for an impressive gift when packaged in a box with parchment dividers. Perfect for caramel lovers!
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies combine soft, chewy cookie dough, tangy cheesecake filling, and a rich, sweet caramel topping with a touch of sea salt for the ultimate sweet and salty experience. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Try them for your next gathering, and share your baking results!
Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Serves: 12
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Calories: 180 per cookie
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- 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
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup thick caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag or ziplock bag and refrigerate until firm, about 15 minutes.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until incorporated. Gradually mix in dry ingredients.
- Assemble the Cookies: Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten it slightly, and place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Enclose the filling by folding the dough around it, shaping into a dome.
- Chill and Bake: Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet. Chill the cookies in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden at the edges.
- Add Toppings: Once cooled, pipe a swirl of cheesecake filling on top of each cookie. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt.
Enjoy your indulgent Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies!