If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect combination of creamy, chewy, and just a touch of caramel decadence, you are going to fall head over heels for this Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe. These cookies bring together the rich tanginess of cream cheese with buttery softness, and a luscious caramel center that melts in your mouth, all topped with a delightful crunch of crushed graham crackers. Whether you’re baking for a cozy gathering or simply craving a special treat to brighten your day, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds and sharing with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe plays a starring role, blending together to create the ultimate balance of flavor and texture. From the rich cream cheese that makes the cookies tender to the sweet caramel that adds gooey delight, each component is essential and makes the baking process delightfully straightforward.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and softness for chewy cookies.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors in the cookie dough.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds rich buttery flavor and moisture.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Key for that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly without overpowering.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds moisture for softness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth.
- 16 soft caramel candies (unwrapped): The gooey heart of the cookie for that irresistible caramel pull.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Helps melt caramels into a creamy sauce for the centers.
- ½ cup crushed graham crackers (for topping): Offers a delightful crunchy contrast and a hint of toasty sweetness.
How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl so your dry ingredients blend evenly. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until you have a smooth, creamy base. Adding your sugar and beating until fluffy is crucial—it introduces air that keeps your cookies soft. Then, mix in your egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to form a soft dough that’s easy to scoop but not sticky.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Using a tablespoon measure, scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls about two inches apart on your baking sheet to give them room to spread a little. Press a gentle thumbprint into the center of each ball—this is where the magic caramel will go later. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, just until the edges turn lightly golden but the cookies remain soft in the middle.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Filling
While the cookies bake, gently melt your caramel candies with the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to achieve a smooth, rich caramel sauce. This step is what transforms these cookies from delicious to unforgettable, so don’t rush it.
Step 4: Add the Caramel and Finish
Once your cookies come out of the oven, immediately spoon the warm caramel into the thumbprint indentations you made earlier. Then sprinkle the crushed graham crackers on top, adding that perfect crunch and hint of graham flavor. Let the cookies set for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the caramel to firm up slightly before digging in.
How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a festive touch, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the top of your cookies once the caramel has set. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the sweet-salty flavor combo, adding an exciting pop that balances luscious richness beautifully. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar add color and extra charm when serving to guests.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a creamy latte, as the bitterness of the coffee contrasts delightfully with the sweetness of the caramel cheesecake cookies. For a cool contrast, try serving with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, turning your snack into an indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress friends or family, create a beautiful dessert platter by arranging your Caramel Cheesecake Cookies along with fresh fruit, nuts, and chocolate chunks. Wrapping individual cookies in decorative parchment tied with twine makes a charming homemade gift. For parties, you can even set up a DIY cookie decorating station with various toppings to let everyone add their own twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Caramel Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within three days when they maintain their softness and fresh flavor. Avoid stacking without parchment between layers to keep the caramel centers neat.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these delightful treats later, you can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready for a batch, bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. Alternatively, baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month; just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, pop your cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or warm them in a low oven for a few minutes. This little heat boost revives the cream cheese softness and makes the caramel center irresistibly gooey again.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramel candies?
Absolutely! Using high-quality store-bought caramel sauce is a convenient shortcut. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold in the cookie centers without spreading too much, and adjust the amount to fill the thumbprints nicely without overflow.
What’s the best way to soften the cream cheese and butter?
For softening, leave them out at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes. They should give slightly when pressed but not be melted. This helps in achieving a creamy dough without lumps and ensures smooth mixing.
Can I substitute graham crackers with something else for the topping?
Yes! Crushed digestive biscuits or even finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts make excellent alternatives. They all add a lovely crunch and complement the caramel cheesecake flavor wonderfully.
How do I prevent the caramel from burning when melting?
Use low heat and stir constantly while melting the caramels with heavy cream. If you have a double boiler, that’s even better to avoid direct heat, which can scorch your caramel. Patience here ensures silky, smooth caramel every time.
Are these cookies gluten-free or can they be made gluten-free?
The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose blend in a 1:1 ratio, making sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to maintain structure. This way, those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy these treats too.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of creamy cheesecake, buttery cookie, and sweet caramel that makes this Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe a standout on any dessert table. Easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and endlessly shareable, these cookies are one of those recipes that bring joy with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience the magic of this delightful treat in your own kitchen!
Print
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies combine rich cream cheese and buttery dough with a gooey caramel center and a crunchy graham cracker topping, creating a delightful soft and chewy dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Caramel Filling and Topping
- 16 soft caramel candies, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ cup crushed graham crackers (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, making sure they are well combined to distribute the leavening evenly throughout the dough.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a soft base for your cookie dough.
- Add Sugar and Mix: Gradually add granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture, beating until fluffy; this step helps to aerate the dough for a lighter texture.
- Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined to add moisture and flavor to the dough.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms without overworking it.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow space for spreading during baking.
- Create Thumbprint Indentations: Gently press a thumbprint or use your finger to make a small well in the center of each dough ball to hold the caramel filling later.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through but still soft inside.
- Prepare Caramel Filling: While the cookies bake, melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
- Add Caramel to Cookies: Remove cookies from the oven and immediately spoon a small amount of the warm melted caramel into the thumbprint centers, allowing it to settle into the indentation.
- Top with Crushed Graham Crackers: Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers over the caramel filling for added texture and flavor.
- Set and Serve: Let the caramel set for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature before serving to ensure it firms up nicely in the cookies.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cooled cookies before serving.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
