Name: Cheesecake Cookies with Strawberry Jam and White Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese (softened); 2 ½ Tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 Tablespoon sour cream; ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup strawberry jam (or strawberry sauce); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed); ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature preferred); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 2 Tablespoons cornstarch; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 oz white chocolate bar (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you are anything like me and adore the creamy richness of cheesecake combined with the comforting familiarity of cookies, then you’re in for an absolute treat with this Cheesecake Cookies with Strawberry Jam and White Chocolate Recipe. These delightful cookies bring together a soft, pillowy dough filled with a luscious cream cheese center, kissed by sweet strawberry jam and studded with bits of luxurious white chocolate. Every bite feels like a little celebration of textures and flavors that’s irresistible and wildly comforting. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface, containing a thick, creamy white mixture being stirred with a white spatula held in a woman's hand on the left side, while another woman's hand steadies the bowl on the right side. The creamy mixture has a smooth and soft texture, with some small lumps visible. The background includes a silver-edged baking tray in the lower left corner and part of a teal cloth in the upper right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making these cheesecake cookies shine. Each component plays a vital role—from the tangy cream cheese that offers creaminess, to the graham cracker crumbs adding a subtle crunch, to the strawberry jam bringing a fruity burst of sweetness. Let’s take a look at the essentials:

Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): The star of the filling, it gives that dreamy creamy texture that reminds you of classic cheesecake.
Granulated sugar (2 ½ tablespoons for filling + ½ cup for dough): Sweetens both the filling and cookie dough perfectly without overpowering.
Sour cream (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang and keeps the filling smooth and luscious.
Vanilla extract (⅛ teaspoon for filling + 1 teaspoon for dough): Enhances all the flavors with its warm, inviting aroma.
Strawberry jam (½ cup): The fruity heart of the cookie, it adds a vibrant pop of flavor and gorgeous color.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides rich flavor and keeps the cookie dough tender and moist.
Light brown sugar (1 cup, firmly packed): Deepens sweetness with a hint of caramel, contributing to chewiness.
Eggs (2 large, room temperature): Help bind everything together and add moisture.
All-purpose flour (3 ⅓ cups): The base of the dough, giving it structure.
Graham cracker crumbs (1 cup): Adds a subtle texture and complements the cheesecake flavor beautifully.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Keeps the cookies soft and tender.
Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the cookies rise to a perfect lightness.
Baking soda (¼ teaspoon): Works with the acids to give a subtle lift and chewiness.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
White chocolate bar (3 oz, optional): Adds pockets of creamy, sweet richness in every bite and a lovely visual contrast.

How to Make Cheesecake Cookies with Strawberry Jam and White Chocolate Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Start by blending your softened cream cheese and sugar in a medium bowl until you get a smooth, creamy blend that’s utterly irresistible. Then, add the sour cream and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is perfectly combined. Spoon small dollops, about 2 teaspoons each, onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet, then pop this tray in the freezer—this chilling step is crucial to handle the filling easily during assembly.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

Now for the cookie dough magic. Cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this process traps air, giving us tender cookies. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, graham cracker crumbs, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet batter, mixing gently to combine without overworking the dough. Once done, cover with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes, which will make it easier to handle and help prevent spreading while baking.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using white chocolate, give it a quick chop so you can press small pieces onto the cookies later. Take the chilled dough and roll it into 2-tablespoon sized balls. Press a crater into the center with your thumb and add a teaspoon and a half of strawberry jam. Next, grab a dollop of your frozen cream cheese filling and nestle it right into the jam. Cover this with another dough ball, rolling gently between your hands for a smooth finish. Don’t forget to press in bits of white chocolate on the cookie surface for that extra touch of indulgence. Chill the shaped cookies on a tray in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes before baking to keep their shape perfect.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Arrange your chilled cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart to allow room for a gentle rise. Slide them into the oven on the center rack and bake for 14 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before enjoying the full, glorious flavors of this cheesecake-inspired delight.

How to Serve Cheesecake Cookies with Strawberry Jam and White Chocolate Recipe

The image shows a close-up of two stacked cookie halves with a creamy white and light pink filling inside. The cookie layers are golden brown with a rough, crumbly texture, and the cream filling in the middle is smooth and thick with a slight shine. There are small white bits on top of the cookie’s surface, adding texture. In the background, there is a blurred white bowl filled with bright red strawberries with green leaves, placed on a white marbled surface. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the cookie and filling. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a lovely finishing touch, dust your cheesecake cookies lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle some melted white chocolate on top for a classy, sweet shimmer. Fresh strawberries on the side or a sprig of mint can add a refreshing pop of color and elevate the presentation to charming dessert table status.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance their rich and sweet flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of fresh berries makes for a delightful accompaniment, turning a simple cookie into an elegant dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange these cookies on a tiered serving tray for a stunning visual effect, or place them in colorful cupcake liners for a neat portion and effortless serving. If gifting, stack a few in a pretty jar or box tied with a ribbon—these cookies make a heartfelt homemade gift that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover cheesecake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days without losing their soft texture. For longer storage, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week, though bring them to room temperature before enjoying to best experience their cream cheese center.

Freezing

To freeze, place the fully assembled but unbaked cookies on a tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake them straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time and enjoy fresh-baked goodness anytime.

Reheating

Warm leftover or frozen-baked cheesecake cookies gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps revive their fresh-baked softness and melts the white chocolate just perfectly, making every bite taste like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute the strawberry jam with other flavors?

Absolutely! Raspberry, apricot, or even blueberry jam work wonderfully as substitutes, giving each cookie a different fruity twist while keeping that luscious cheesecake center intact.

What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?

You can crush digestive biscuits or graham crackers yourself until finely ground and use them as an equal substitute—this adds that signature crumbly texture and flavor that balances the creaminess.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Yes, chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape, ensures a tender texture, and prevents them from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in that perfect chewy bite.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

While this recipe relies on cream cheese and butter for its signature flavor and texture, you could experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter alternatives. Results may vary, so keep in mind it may alter the cookie’s classic taste and richness.

Why is cornstarch included in the dough?

Cornstarch helps to keep the cookies delicately soft and tender by softening the flour’s gluten development, giving these cheesecake cookies that melt-in-your-mouth feel everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cheesecake Cookies with Strawberry Jam and White Chocolate Recipe enough if you’re looking to impress family, friends, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary. It’s a beautiful blend of creamy, sweet, and fruity that feels special yet approachable. These cookies bring joy with every bite and are totally worth the little extra effort. I guarantee they’ll become a beloved go-to recipe in your kitchen just like they have in mine!

Cheesecake Cookies with Strawberry Jam and White Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need