Cheesecake Cookie Cups Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s as cute as it is delicious, look no further than these Cheesecake Cookie Cups! These bite-sized delights combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the soft, chewy texture of a cookie crust. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a special dessert night, these cheesecake cookie cups are easy to make, super customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

In this article, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions for creating these mini cheesecake cookie cups, along with ingredient variations and expert tips to ensure perfect results every time. Ready to get baking? Let’s dive in!

What Are Cheesecake Cookie Cups?

Cheesecake Cookie Cups are essentially mini cheesecakes baked inside cookie crusts. Instead of using a traditional graham cracker crust, the cheesecake filling is spooned into cookie dough cups that bake up soft, chewy, and golden. The result is a rich, creamy filling nestled inside a sweet, buttery cookie “crust.” These cookie cups are perfect for portion control, easy to serve, and customizable with various toppings and flavors.

Ingredients List for Cheesecake Cookie Cups

Cookie Crust Ingredients:

• 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of light brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• 1 ½ cups of chocolate chips (optional, for chocolate chip cookie cups)

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:

• 2 (8 oz) blocks of cream cheese (softened, room temperature)
• ½ cup of granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon of sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

Toppings (Optional but Recommended):

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
• Whipped cream
• Caramel or chocolate sauce
• Crushed cookies or candy pieces (for extra crunch)

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some fun substitutions and variations to customize your cheesecake cookie cups:

1. Cookie Dough Flavors: Use chocolate chip cookie dough, sugar cookie dough, or even peanut butter cookie dough as the base for the cookie cups. You can also try oatmeal cookie dough for a heartier twist.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cookie dough mix or gluten-free flour to make the cookie cups. The cheesecake filling is naturally gluten-free.
3. Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and plant-based sour cream for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
4. Flavor Variations: Add cocoa powder to the cheesecake filling for a chocolate cheesecake, or stir in some lemon zest for a citrusy kick. You can also mix in crushed Oreos, peanut butter, or Nutella into the filling for extra indulgence.
5. Mini Cheesecake Cups: For even smaller treats, use a mini muffin pan to make bite-sized cheesecake cookie cups.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own cheesecake cookie cups:

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Mix in the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using chocolate chips, fold them into the dough at this point.
4. Chill the dough: For best results, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to firm it up. This will help the cookie cups hold their shape while baking.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
2. Add sugar and vanilla: Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined and smooth.
3. Incorporate the egg and sour cream: Beat in the egg and sour cream, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause air bubbles in the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookie Cups

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray or butter.
2. Shape the cookie dough: Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball into a muffin cup and press it down with your fingers or a small cup to create a "well" in the center. The cookie dough should come up the sides of the muffin tin, forming a cup shape.
3. Add the cheesecake filling: Spoon the cheesecake filling into each cookie dough cup, filling about ¾ of the way to the top. The filling will puff up slightly as it bakes, so be careful not to overfill.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Cookie Cups

1. Bake the cookie cups: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cookie edges are golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set.
2. Cool the cookie cups: Remove the cookie cups from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Chill the cheesecake: Once the cookie cups are fully cooled, transfer them to the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the cheesecake filling set and makes it easier to handle.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

1. Top with your favorite toppings: Once the cookie cups are chilled, add your desired toppings. Fresh berries, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chocolate drizzle work beautifully.
2. Serve and enjoy: Serve the cheesecake cookie cups straight from the fridge for the best texture. Enjoy them as is, or with your favorite hot beverage!

How to Cook Cheesecake Cookie Cups: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the key steps:

1. Prepare the cookie dough: Cream butter and sugars, add eggs and vanilla, and mix in dry ingredients. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and sour cream until smooth. Add the egg.
3. Assemble the cups: Press cookie dough into a muffin tin to form cups, then spoon cheesecake filling into each cup.
4. Bake and cool: Bake at 350°F until golden brown, cool in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
5. Chill and top: Chill the cookie cups in the fridge, then add your favorite toppings before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to help you avoid common mistakes when making cheesecake cookie cups:

1. Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookie cups while baking. The cookie edges should be golden, but the cheesecake center should be slightly jiggly. Overbaking can make the cookie dough too hard and the cheesecake filling dry.
2. Underfilling the cups: Be sure to press the cookie dough firmly into the muffin tin to create a deep enough well for the cheesecake filling. Otherwise, the filling might spill over the edges.
3. Not chilling the dough: Don’t skip the step of chilling the cookie dough. This helps the cookie cups maintain their shape during baking and prevents them from spreading too much.
4. Not letting the cheesecake set: Be patient and let the cookie cups cool completely before adding any toppings. This gives the cheesecake filling time to set properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Here are some creative serving and presentation ideas to make your cheesecake cookie cups look as good as they taste:

1. Use a piping bag for toppings: For a neat and professional look, use a piping bag to pipe whipped cream onto the tops of the cheesecake cups.
2. Drizzle sauces artistically: Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to drizzle caramel, chocolate, or fruit sauce in a zig-zag or circular pattern over the tops.
3. Add fresh fruit: Garnish each cheesecake cup with a fresh berry or a slice of fruit for a pop of color and flavor.
4. Serve chilled: Cheesecake is best served chilled, so keep the cookie cups in the fridge until you’re ready to serve them.

Presentation Ideas for Cheesecake Cookie Cups

1. Decorative platter: Arrange the cheesecake cookie cups on a large decorative platter with fresh berries or mint leaves scattered around for a colorful display.
2. Mini dessert towers: Stack two or three cheesecake cookie cups on top of each other for a dessert tower effect.
3. Individual serving plates: Serve each guest an individual cookie cup on a small plate with a drizzle of sauce and a garnish of whipped cream or berries.

Cheesecake Cookie Cups Recipe Tips

1. Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs

, and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth filling and cookie dough that mixes evenly.

2. Chill before serving: For the best texture and flavor, let the cheesecake cookie cups chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
3. Use parchment paper or muffin liners: If you’re worried about sticking, use parchment paper or muffin liners for easy removal from the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make cheesecake cookie cups ahead of time?

Yes! Cheesecake cookie cups can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just wait to add toppings until right before serving for the best presentation.

2. How long do cheesecake cookie cups last?

They will last up to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze them (without toppings) for up to 2 months.

3. Can I freeze cheesecake cookie cups?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie cups (without toppings) by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

4. Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cookie dough. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions closely and adjust the size of the dough balls accordingly.

5. What if my cookie dough spreads too much?

If the cookie dough spreads too much while baking, use a spoon to gently press the dough back into a cup shape as soon as it comes out of the oven.

Conclusion

These Cheesecake Cookie Cups are the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and chewy cookie dough in a bite-sized treat. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family get-together, or simply a sweet craving, this recipe is guaranteed to please. With endless variations and toppings, you can customize these cookie cups to suit any flavor or occasion. Follow this guide, and you’ll be on your way to creating delicious, beautiful, and crowd-pleasing desserts every time. Happy baking!

Print