If you’re a fan of both cheesecake and cookies, these Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine soft, chewy cookies infused with the rich flavors of cheesecake, swirled with luscious caramel, and topped with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for that signature cheesecake crust vibe. These cookies are the ultimate indulgence—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at any gathering. Let’s dive into how you can whip up these decadent treats at home!
Why You’ll Love Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
- Two Desserts in One: Combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting texture of cookies.
- Irresistibly Decadent: The caramel swirls and graham cracker topping add layers of flavor and texture.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are a crowd-pleaser at parties, potlucks, or as gifts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes 18–20 cookies)
For the Cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
- Optional: flaky sea salt for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
3. Assemble the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Flatten each ball slightly and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use the back of a spoon or your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
- Fill each indentation with a small dollop of caramel sauce.
4. Bake
- Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the cookies for a cheesecake-inspired crust.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the cookies immediately after baking for a sweet-and-salty finish.
5. Cool and Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cooled cookies if desired.
- Serve and enjoy these gooey, decadent treats!
Tips for Success
- Use Softened Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth, creamy dough.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Customize the Toppings: Add mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.
- Make Ahead: Store the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Why This Recipe Works
These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies combine the tangy creaminess of cheesecake with the buttery sweetness of caramel and the comforting crunch of graham crackers. The result is a cookie that’s rich, indulgent, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether served as a dessert, snack, or gift, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced baking skills.
Conclusion: A Sweet Treat That’s Worth Every Bite
Whether you’re craving a decadent dessert, looking for a unique treat to bring to a gathering, or simply want to indulge in something sweet and satisfying, these Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are sure to delight. Their creamy textures, gooey caramel centers, and customizable toppings make them a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, their adaptability means you can tailor them to suit any occasion.
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Enjoy!