Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I paced my kitchen, the sweet scent of butter and sugar melded with the rich allure of caramel, drawing me in like a memory of home-baked treats from my childhood. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up a batch of Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. This delightful recipe marries the soft, chewy texture of cookies with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake—an irresistible combo that only takes 25 minutes to prepare! Perfect for gatherings or simply to satisfy those late-night cravings, these little gems are a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, with the added sprinkle of flaky sea salt, every bite offers a tantalizing contrast that will leave you and your loved ones reaching for more. So, are you ready to elevate your dessert game and create these scrumptious cookies? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Quick Preparation: Whip up these delightful Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies in just 25 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat for any occasion. Decadent Fusion: Enjoy the wonderful blend of soft cookie texture and rich cheesecake flavor, creating a dessert that truly satisfies. Endless Variations: Feel free to personalize with chocolate chips, nuts, or even seasonal spices for an exciting twist. Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress at parties or family gatherings—everyone loves a sweet with a hint of salty! No Fuss: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create a phenomenal dessert. Pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent experience! Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Base • Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with softened coconut oil for a vegan option. • Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a crispy edge; can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. • Brown Sugar – Enhances flavor with caramel notes and moisture; can substitute with additional granulated sugar if needed. • Cream Cheese – Contributes to the tender texture, creating a cheesecake-like richness; vegan cream cheese works as a substitute. • Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; replace with flax eggs (1 flax egg = 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan version. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste. • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. For the Flavor Boosters • Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results. • Salt – Balances sweetness; a small amount is essential, and sea salt can amplify the flavor. • Caramel Sauce – Adds flavor and moisture with delightful swirls; both store-bought and homemade versions work well. • Flaky Sea Salt – A topping that enhances the sweet and salty contrast; select Maldon or fleur de sel for the best results. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheets Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking. This simple step ensures that once your cookie dough is ready, you can quickly transfer it to the oven for baking, making your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies even easier to prepare. Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes pale in color and airy, creating a wonderful base for your cookies’ decadent texture. Step 3: Incorporate the Cream Cheese Next, add the softened cream cheese to your sugar and butter mixture. Blend everything together until completely smooth and well combined. This step infuses your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies with that sought-after cheesecake richness, setting the stage for an irresistibly creamy bite. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary to ensure even mixing. Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Beat in the large eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Continue mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated, which should take about 1 minute. The eggs bind the ingredients while adding moisture, so you’ll notice the batter becomes even creamier. Make sure to mix until everything is well blended. Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is crucial for proper rising. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender. Step 6: Swirl in the Caramel Sauce Gently fold the caramel sauce into the cookie dough, creating beautiful streaks without fully mixing it in. This step is key for the signature salted caramel flavor in your cookies. You want to see swirls of caramel throughout the dough, hinting at the delicious surprises inside each bite of your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. Step 7: Scoop and Space the Dough Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the cookie dough and place them onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread while baking, ensuring they don’t stick together. The anticipation builds as the sweet smell of caramel and cheesecake wafts through your kitchen. Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt Before baking, generously sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt. This final touch enhances the sweet and salty contrast that makes the Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies truly special. The salt will melt into the cookies as they bake, creating a delightful flavor balance that will have everyone craving more. Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies—the edges should be golden while the centers remain slightly soft. This perfect baking time ensures you achieve that ideal chewy texture that makes these cookies so delectable. Step 10: Cool and Enjoy Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up just enough while retaining their chewy centers. After completely cooling, your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies will be ready to enjoy, bursting with flavor and topped with that delicious salted finish. Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Variations Feel free to explore these tempting variations and transform your cookies into unique delights! Chocolatey Delight: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich and decadent twist. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the caramel and cheesecake flavors, elevating your cookies. Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for an added crunch. The nuttiness balances the sweetness and creates a delightful textural contrast. Peanut Butter Swirl: Replace half of the caramel sauce with peanut butter for a creamy, nutty flavor. This adds a unique twist that peanut butter lovers will adore! Seasonal Spice: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to invoke the warmth of fall. Alternatively, consider using pumpkin-flavored cream cheese during autumn for a festive touch. Vegan Option: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use flax eggs to make these cookies entirely plant-based. You won’t miss the dairy at all! Sandy Salt: Use smoked sea salt instead of flaky sea salt for an unexpected smoky flavor burst that adds depth to the sweet and salty combination. Fruit Twist: Mix in dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a chewy, fruity element. This will add a pop of tartness that beautifully compliments the rich flavors. Explore these delicious variations and find the perfect combination for every occasion. For even more inspiration, try pairing your cookies with a scoop of ice cream or alongside some Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches! What to Serve with Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Imagine savoring your freshly baked Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies while delightfully complementing them with perfect pairings that enhance their flavors and textures. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool and smooth contrast, balancing the warm cookies beautifully. Rich Hot Chocolate: Serve alongside a rich cup of hot chocolate to deepen the indulgent experience, perfect for cozy evenings. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries provide a fresh pop of flavor, adding brightness to the rich sweetness of the cookies. Espresso: A strong shot of espresso offers a bold counterpoint, enhancing the caramel notes and providing a luscious coffee break. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The crunch and saltiness of chocolate-dipped pretzels bring both texture and a sweet-and-salty flavor that matches the cookies. Honey Drizzle: A gentle drizzle of honey over the cookies can add a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salted caramel. Cheesecake Bites: Continue the cheesecake theme with mini cheesecake bites on the side—an irresistible treat that mirrors the cookie’s rich flavors. Fizzy Lemonade: A glass of bubbly lemonade adds refreshing zest, cutting through the sweetness with its citrusy brightness, perfect for summer gatherings. Chai Tea: Aromatic chai tea amplifies warm spice notes that meld delightfully with the salted caramel, creating a comforting experience. Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and chewy. Fridge: If you prefer colder cookies, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating: To restore their fresh-baked texture, heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. Enjoy your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies warm! Make Ahead Options These Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing taste! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even more flexibility, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookie dough on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly chewy cookies every time. This method not only preserves the deliciousness but also saves you stress during busy weeks! Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Prep Ahead: Measure all ingredients before starting to streamline your baking process and reduce any last-minute stress. Creaminess Check: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this creates the rich, cheesecake-like texture essential to your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies—nobody wants that! Caramel Control: For a beautiful caramel effect, gently fold the sauce into the dough, ensuring streaks remain visible instead of completely blending it in. Perfect Salt Balance: Use flaky sea salt generously on top, but avoid overdoing it. The right amount will enhance the flavors beautifully without overwhelming sweetness. Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should look slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect chewy texture once cooled. Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies, choose fresh ingredients. Use room temperature cream cheese, which should be soft to the touch but not melted. Check eggs for freshness by placing them in a bowl of water; if they sink and lay flat, they’re good to go. Look for butter that is creamy and without any hard spots, ensuring it blends well with the sugars. How should I store my cookies and how long will they last? You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place to preserve their chewiness. If you prefer them chilled, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, though they may become a bit firmer when cold. Can I freeze these Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies? Very! To freeze, simply let your cookies cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or give them a quick microwave blast for 10-15 seconds to restore that fresh-baked warmth. What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking? If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to the butter being too warm or not enough flour in the dough. To troubleshoot, ensure your butter is softened but not melted when mixing, and try measuring your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. If you find your dough is too soft, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape. Are there any dietary considerations for allergies when making these cookies? Yes! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider your guests when making these cookies by using vegan cream cheese and coconut oil to replace cream cheese and butter for a dairy-free option. Ensure the caramel sauce is also dairy-free and safe for those avoiding lactose. Always check labels for allergens in processed ingredients, such as the caramel sauce, as they may contain traces of nuts or gluten. Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies in Just 25 Minutes Delightful Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies that combine chewy cookie texture and creamy cheesecake flavor, ready in just 25 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Base1 cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness and moisture; substitute with softened coconut oil for a vegan option.1 cup Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and helps achieve a crispy edge; can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.1/2 cup Brown Sugar Enhances flavor with caramel notes and moisture; can substitute with additional granulated sugar.8 oz Cream Cheese Contributes to the tender texture, creating a cheesecake-like richness; vegan cream cheese works as a substitute.2 Large Eggs Binds ingredients and adds moisture; replace with flax eggs for a vegan version.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure for the cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.For the Flavor Boosters1 tsp Baking Soda Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it's fresh for optimal results.1/2 tsp Salt Balances sweetness; sea salt can amplify the flavor.1/2 cup Caramel Sauce Adds flavor and moisture; both store-bought and homemade work well.Flaky Sea Salt A topping that enhances sweet and salty contrast; select Maldon or fleur de sel for the best results. Equipment Mixing BowlElectric MixerBaking sheetsParchment Papermeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsSpoonwire rack Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cheesecake CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.Add softened cream cheese to the mixture and blend until smooth.Beat in the large eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients until just combined.Gently fold the caramel sauce into the cookie dough, creating swirls.Scoop portions of the dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.Generously sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt before baking.Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers remain soft.Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesMeasure all ingredients before starting to streamline the baking process. Ensure cream cheese is softened for the best texture. Avoid overmixing dry ingredients to keep cookies tender. Gently fold caramel sauce to maintain streaks. Use flaky sea salt judiciously on top for flavor balance. Keep an eye on baking for the perfect chewy texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
