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When the craving for something sweet hits, there’s nothing better than a homemade treat that combines the best of two worlds. Enter my Cheesecake Caramel Cookies—the magical fusion of soft, chewy cookies with a luscious cheesecake and gooey caramel center. Each bite is a delightful surprise, providing a warm hug of flavor that’s hard to resist.

I stumbled upon this recipe during a baking binge, trying to reinvent classic desserts that could bring smiles in a matter of minutes. With just a few pantry staples, these cookies come together comfortably in under 30 minutes, proving that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something truly special. Perfectly suited for everyday enjoyment or fancy occasions, they are a crowd-pleaser that will leave you and your loved ones coming back for more.

So, why wait? Grab your apron and let’s whip up these irresistible Cheesecake Caramel Cookies!

Why are Cheesecake Caramel Cookies irresistible?

Simplicity at its Finest: These cookies come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for quick cravings or last-minute gatherings.

Decadent Surprise: Each cookie hides a luscious cheesecake filling alongside a gooey caramel core, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for both casual family nights and festive celebrations, these cookies are guaranteed to impress friends and loved ones alike.

Warm and Comforting: Enjoy them straight from the oven for an indulgent, warm treat that will hug your taste buds.

Endless Variations: Feel free to customize by swapping out caramel for chocolate truffles or increasing the cheesecake filling for a richer experience.

These Cheesecake Caramel Cookies are not just delicious but are a joy to bake, turning any moment into a delightful occasion!

Cheesecake Caramel Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Yellow Cake Mix – Acts as a quick base for the dough; any vanilla or white cake mix can substitute it for quick prep.
• Butter (1/2 cup, melted) – Infuses richness and flavor into the cookies; use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels.
• Egg (1) – Binds the ingredients together; for a vegan twist, replace with 1/4 cup of apple sauce.

For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – Creates the creamy filling; low-fat options work, but will slightly change the texture.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup for filling & 1/4 cup for coating) – Sweetens both the filling and cookie coating; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Elevates the flavor profile of the cheesecake; almond extract is a good substitute if desired.

For the Gooey Center
• Caramel Candies (12) – Provides a glorious, gooey surprise; choose soft caramels for the best melt.

For the Coating
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Adds warm spice to the cinnamon-sugar mix; optional, but enhances sweetness beautifully.

These Cheesecake Caramel Cookies are easy to make, delectable, and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy baking!

How to Make Cheesecake Caramel Cookies

Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, pair softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until perfectly smooth, then chill for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up lightly.
Prepare Dough: Combine yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg in a large bowl. Mix until a thick, non-sticky dough forms, giving a gentle knead if needed.
Form Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Add 1 teaspoon of the chilled cheesecake filling along with a caramel candy in the center. Wrap and seal the dough around the filling, rolling it into a ball.
Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in this mixture until they’re fully coated for a flavorful finish.
Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each to allow room for spreading.
Bake: Pop them into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be just set while the center stays gooey for the best texture.
Cool Slightly: Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them firm up before transferring to a wire rack.

Optional: For added indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cheesecake Caramel Cookies

Seal It Well: Ensure the dough completely encloses the cheesecake filling and caramel to prevent any delicious leaks during baking.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close watch while baking. The cookies should have set edges but a gooey center, so take them out when the edges are just firm.
Serve Warm: For that ultimate treat, serve the cookies warm straight out of the oven to enjoy the melted center that enhances the Cheesecake Caramel Cookies experience.
Make Ahead: Prepare and coat the cookie balls in advance and freeze them. When cravings hit, bake straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to bake time.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try variations! Double the cheesecake filling for a creamier bite or swap caramel for chocolate truffles for a delightful twist.

Cheesecake Caramel Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and personalize them to your liking!

Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with 1/4 cup of apple sauce for a delightful plant-based treat. They’ll still be soft and deliciously gooey!
Chocolate Lovers: Replace the caramel candies with chocolate truffles for a rich, indulgent twist. Each bite will be a chocolate dream!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the dough for a nice textural contrast and extra flavor. The warmth of the nuts pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookie.
Caramel Swirl: Instead of a solid caramel center, swirl melted caramel into the cheesecake filling for extra gooeyness. Each cookie will be a surprise!
Flavor Boost: Swap vanilla extract with almond extract to infuse a lovely nutty aroma into your cookies. A little change can go a long way!
Cinnamon Twist: For a spicier profile, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar coating. This adds a warm depth of flavor that complements the cheesecake.
Fruit Bliss: Mix in some mini chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries for extra sweetness and a pop of color. They’ll add another layer of enjoyment with every bite!
Lower Sugar: Use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic option. Your cookies will still be sweet, just a little healthier!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesecake Caramel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare and form the cookie balls up to 2 months in advance. Simply scoop, fill, and roll them, then place the unbaked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just bake the cookie balls directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time for that gooey center and soft texture. This way, you’ll have warm, fresh cookies ready in minutes—ideal for unexpected guests or satisfying sweet cravings!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesecake Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and chewy.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days; just let them sit at room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie balls for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, place them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the bake time.

Reheating: For warm, gooey goodness, gently reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

What to Serve with Cheesecake Caramel Cookies?

Indulging in these delightful cookies? Let’s elevate your dessert experience with some fantastic pairings.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warmth and sweetness of the cookies, creating a heavenly dessert duo.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst, cutting through the richness of the cheesecake filling.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling some melted chocolate over your cookies could enhance the flavor with a decadent touch, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee provides a rich contrast to the sweet cookies, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Milk: The classic choice, a chilled glass of milk pairs flawlessly, ensuring your gooey, sugary indulgence is even more delightful.
Caramel Sauce Dip: For an extra hit of sweetness, serve side caramel sauce for dipping, enhancing the cookie’s gooey center and adding an irresistible touch.
Nutty Topping: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top can add a crunchy texture, offering a delightful contrast to the soft, chewy cookies.
Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai blend beautifully with the flavors of the cookies, offering a cozy, soothing experience.

Elevate your treat time with these tempting options, making your Cheesecake Caramel Cookies even more unforgettable!

Cheesecake Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cake mix should I use for the Cheesecake Caramel Cookies?
Absolutely! A yellow cake mix is ideal for these cookies, providing a sweet, quick base. If you prefer, you can use any vanilla or white cake mix as substitutes. Just ensure it’s a baking mix that’s quick to prepare.

How do I store leftover Cheesecake Caramel Cookies?
You can store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring they remain soft and chewy. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerating them in an airtight container will maintain freshness for up to 5 days. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Cheesecake Caramel Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked cookie balls for up to 2 months. To do this, simply shape and coat your cookie balls, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cookie balls to a resealable freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, place them directly in the preheated oven, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time for best results.

How can I troubleshoot if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it may be due to room temperature butter being too softened or not chilling the cheesecake filling long enough. To prevent this, ensure your butter is melted but slightly cooled and chill the filling as instructed. Additionally, don’t skip the rolling in cinnamon sugar; it also helps the dough hold its shape.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Certainly! For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute regular cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free option. If you’re looking for a vegan version, you can replace the egg with 1/4 cup of apple sauce and ensure all other ingredients, like the cake mix, are dairy-free. It’s also a good idea to check caramel brands for any allergens, as some may contain dairy or nuts.

Can I use hard caramels instead of soft ones?
While you can use hard caramel candies, I don’t recommend it. Soft caramels melt beautifully inside the cookie, creating that gooey surprise we all love. Hard caramels won’t melt effectively, which could affect the delightful texture of the finished cookie. Stick with soft caramels for the best results!