Caramel cheesecake cookies are the perfect blend of rich, creamy cheesecake and buttery cookie dough, all topped with a luscious caramel drizzle. These cookies are soft, slightly chewy, and packed with a decadent caramel flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the soft texture of cookies
Perfectly balanced sweetness with a delicious caramel topping
Great for special occasions, holidays, or as an indulgent treat
Easy to make and store for later enjoyment
Customizable with different flavors or toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cream cheese
Butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Caramel sauce
Optional toppings: sea salt, chopped nuts, or chocolate drizzle

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Scoop out portions of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool slightly.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each cookie before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 20 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies: Sprinkle a little sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra decadence.
Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch.
Spiced Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced touch.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 7 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If needed, warm in the microwave for a few seconds to soften the caramel topping.

FAQs

How do I keep my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading.

Can I make these cookies without cream cheese?

The cream cheese is essential for the cheesecake flavor, but you can try substituting with mascarpone for a similar taste.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes! Store-bought caramel sauce works great, but homemade caramel can elevate the flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the caramel from getting too runny?

Let the cookies cool before adding caramel, and use a thicker caramel sauce if needed.

Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips pair wonderfully with the caramel and cheesecake flavors.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best way to drizzle the caramel?

Use a spoon or a piping bag for an even drizzle over the cookies.

Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of this recipe?

Yes, you can use your favorite cookie dough and simply add the cheesecake filling and caramel.

What can I serve these cookies with?

They pair well with a cup of coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a glass of milk.

Conclusion

Caramel cheesecake cookies are an irresistible dessert that combines creamy cheesecake flavors with the chewy goodness of a cookie. With their rich caramel drizzle and customizable variations, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for fun, these cookies are always a hit!