Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the combination of caramel and cheesecake, especially when it’s all wrapped up in a soft, chewy cookie. These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies have become a beloved treat in our home—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a sweet afternoon snack. I first made them on a rainy Saturday with my daughter, and ever since, they’ve held a special place in our hearts (and cookie jar!).

Imagine biting into a cookie that tastes like a slice of creamy cheesecake, swirled with rich caramel and dotted with melty chocolate chips. These cookies are as indulgent as they sound, but simple enough for beginner bakers to master. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

• Soft and chewy with a creamy cheesecake base.
• Rich caramel flavor in every bite.
• Easy to make – no chilling required.
• Kid-approved and perfect for lunchboxes or after-school treats.
• Customizable – add chocolate chips, nuts, or sea salt.
• Perfect for gifting or holiday cookie trays.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cookie Dough Base

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened – Use full-fat for the best texture.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and depth.
• 1 large egg – Binds everything together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For warm, aromatic flavor.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Scoop and level for accuracy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.

Mix-Ins

• 1 cup thick caramel sauce – Store-bought or homemade; avoid runny caramel.
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional) – Semi-sweet or dark chocolate work great.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
• Add both sugars and beat until light and fluffy.
• Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.

3. Add Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

4. Swirl in Caramel

• Gently fold in the caramel sauce. Avoid overmixing—you want pretty ribbons of caramel throughout.
• If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

5. Scoop and Bake

• Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 2 tablespoons) onto prepared baking sheets.
• Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set and centers look slightly underdone.
• Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with a glass of milk or coffee.
• Add a drizzle of extra caramel on top for a bakery-style finish.

Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerate for a firmer texture—great for warm climates.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Helpful Notes

• Use thick caramel sauce to prevent the dough from getting too runny.
• For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking.
• Don’t overbake! The cookies will firm up as they cool.
• Want a cheesecake center? Try stuffing with a teaspoon of sweetened cream cheese.
• Make it festive by adding holiday sprinkles or crushed pretzels.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

2. What if my caramel is too thin?

Use a thicker, spreadable caramel or cook it down slightly on the stove until thickened.

3. Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely—scoop into balls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes.

4. What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Stick with full-fat block-style cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.

5. Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Yes! They're optional—leave them out or substitute with white chocolate or toffee bits.

Final Thoughts

Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are the ultimate indulgent treat—soft, sweet, and bursting with cozy, decadent flavors. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself to something special, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. I hope you enjoy baking (and eating!) them as much as we do. Don’t forget to leave a comment or tag me in your cookie photos—happy baking!