Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake filling)
- ½ cup finely chopped strawberries or strawberry crunch topping
- ½ cup turkey bacon pieces (optional)
- ½ cup chicken ham, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling by beating the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
- Scoop 1 tablespoon of cookie dough, flatten slightly, and place 1 teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling, sealing completely, and form into a ball.
- Roll the cookie balls in finely chopped strawberries or strawberry crunch topping until evenly coated.
- Optionally, press a few turkey bacon or chicken ham pieces lightly into the dough before baking.
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Notes
Chilling the cookie balls for 10 minutes before baking prevents spreading.
Substitute freeze-dried strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable.
Adjust filling quantity for a cheesier center or a milder flavor.
Optional savory additions of turkey bacon or chicken ham complement the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15