Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe: Soft, Sweet, and Irresistibly Decadent
If you’re craving a dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the comforting warmth of homemade cookies, look no further than these Caramel Cheesecake Cookies. With a soft, buttery base, luscious cream cheese frosting, and a drizzle of golden caramel, these cookies are a showstopper for any occasion—from cozy nights in to festive gatherings.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields bakery-style results that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 3 cups powdered sugar
For the Topping
- Caramel sauce, store-bought or homemade
Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories per cookie: ~310 kcal
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. - Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—about 2–3 minutes. - Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This step helps incorporate air into the dough, giving the cookies a soft texture. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. Cornstarch is the secret to that tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb. - Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. - Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
For best results, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor. - Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. - Cool Completely
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before frosting. Warm cookies will melt the frosting, so patience is key!
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the Base
In a clean bowl, beat together the cream cheese and salted butter until smooth and creamy. Both should be at room temperature to avoid lumps. - Add Flavor
Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the frosting. - Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is thick, smooth, and spreadable. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or a splash of milk if needed.
Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool:
- Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over each cookie.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce—go light or heavy depending on your sweet tooth!
Expert Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing. This guarantees a smooth, lump-free frosting and evenly mixed dough.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling prevents spreading and gives the cookies a thicker, chewier texture.
- Use Quality Caramel: A rich, buttery caramel sauce elevates these cookies from good to unforgettable. Try making your own or choose a premium store-bought brand.
- Storage: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
- Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Swap caramel forn melted chocolate or add chocolate chips to the dough.
- Mini Cheesecake Bites: Bake smaller cookies and pipe frosting in a swirl for bite-sized treats.
Perfect for Sharing
These cookies are not only delicious—they’re photogenic! The creamy frosting and glossy caramel make them ideal for Instagram-worthy dessert spreads. Serve them at parties, bake sales, or gift them in a cute box for holidays.
Final Thoughts
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. They combine the best of both worlds: the soft chewiness of a cookie and the rich decadence of cheesecake. With a silky frosting and a drizzle of caramel, each bite is a celebration of flavor and texture.