Caramel Cheesecake Cookies: A Decadent Treat

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Introduction

These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect marriage of rich cheesecake flavor and gooey caramel, all in a soft, pillowy cookie form. The addition of cream cheese to the dough creates an ultra-tender texture, while the caramel sauce adds pockets of sweet, buttery goodness in every bite. Finished with optional mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence, these cookies are ideal for dessert lovers who crave something beyond the ordinary.

What makes these cookies special is their unique hybrid texture—part chewy cookie, part creamy cheesecake—with a delightful contrast between the slightly crisp edges and soft centers. The caramel sauce bakes into ribbons of sweetness, while the chocolate chips (if using) add a pleasant crunch. Perfect for holiday baking, gift boxes, or a luxurious afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to impress.

Recipe: Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (115g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix-Ins:

  • ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Dough

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a large bowl, beat butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy (~3 mins).
  3. Mix in egg and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.

2. Add Caramel & Chocolate Chips

  1. Gently fold in caramel sauce (don’t overmix—streaks are fine).
  2. If using, fold in mini chocolate chips.

3. Chill the Dough

  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight).
    → This prevents spreading and enhances flavor.

4. Bake the Cookies

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
  2. Scoop 1½-tbsp portions of dough, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  3. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden (centers will be soft).
  4. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

5. Optional Finish

  • Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt after baking.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

✔ Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
✔ Don’t overbake—cookies firm up as they cool.
✔ Swirl caramel gently to maintain ribbons (not fully blended).
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze unbaked dough balls for later.

Variations

  • Salted Caramel: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking.
  • Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
  • Darker Caramel: Use dark brown sugar instead of granulated.

Conclusion

These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a rich, buttery, and irresistibly soft treat that elevates classic cookies to dessert status. The cream cheese adds tangy depth, while the caramel creates gooey pockets of sweetness. Whether enjoyed warm with a glass of milk or packed as a gourmet gift, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

#DecadentCookies #CheesecakeLove #CaramelDelight 🍪✨

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