Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwich Cookies: A Delightful Treat You Can’t Resist

Introduction

Looking for a mouth-watering dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious? Look no further than Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwich Cookies! These vibrant red treats are the perfect combination of soft cookies and creamy cheesecake filling, offering a heavenly experience for anyone with a sweet tooth. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just an indulgent snack, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to devour. Follow this detailed guide to bake the most delectable strawberry cheesecake sandwich cookies, guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons strawberry-flavored gelatin powder (for flavor and color)
• Red food coloring (optional, for a brighter red)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, ground into powder (optional, for added strawberry flavor)

For Garnish:

• Shredded coconut (optional, as shown in the image)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until the dough comes together.

6. Mix in the strawberry-flavored gelatin powder for a strawberry essence and pink hue. If you want a bolder red color, add a few drops of red food coloring.

7. Shape the dough into 1 ½ inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft.

9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined.

3. Mix in the vanilla extract and, if desired, the ground freeze-dried strawberries for an extra boost of strawberry flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Once the cookies have fully cooled, pair them up by matching similar sizes.

2. Using a piping bag or a spoon, generously spread or pipe the cheesecake filling onto the flat side of one cookie.

3. Press the flat side of another cookie on top to create a sandwich.

4. For an extra decorative touch, roll the sides of the filled cookies in shredded coconut to mimic the ones in the image.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwich Cookies

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth cookie dough and creamy cheesecake filling, ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature.

2. Chill the Dough: If your dough seems too soft or sticky, chilling it for 15-30 minutes will help you shape it into balls more easily.

3. Freeze-Dried Strawberries: If you want a more intense strawberry flavor in the filling, adding powdered freeze-dried strawberries will make the filling taste extra fruity without changing the texture.

4. Storage: These cookies are best stored in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese filling. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

5. Make Ahead: Both the cookies and the cheesecake filling can be made ahead of time. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature and the filling in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Health Benefits and Substitutions

While these strawberry cheesecake sandwich cookies are indulgent, they also offer some redeeming nutritional qualities. Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which are beneficial for overall health.

Substitution Ideas:

• Lower Sugar: You can reduce the sugar content by using a sugar substitute like monk fruit or erythritol in both the cookies and filling.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these cookies.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives for a lactose-friendly treat.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day celebration, a birthday party, or just looking for a treat to share with loved ones, these strawberry cheesecake sandwich cookies are a guaranteed hit. Their vibrant red color and rich, creamy filling make them stand out, while their familiar, comforting flavors ensure they’ll be loved by all.

Additionally, their compact sandwich form makes them ideal for party platters, potlucks, or bake sales. Not to mention, they’re Instagram-ready, thanks to the bright red color and shredded coconut garnish!

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwich Cookies combine the best of both worlds: the soft, buttery texture of a cookie and the tangy sweetness of a cheesecake filling. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a novice, these cookies are easy to make and will impress even the most discerning dessert lovers.