Coffee Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful blend of soft, espresso-infused cookie dough and creamy cheesecake filling, creating the perfect pick-me-up treat. With bold coffee flavor, a tangy cheesecake center, and a soft, chewy texture, these cookies are a coffee lover’s dream and a fun twist on traditional cheesecake or chocolate chip cookies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines coffee, cookies, and cheesecake in one treat
- Soft, chewy texture with a creamy center
- Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert fans alike
- Unique and impressive for bake sales or parties
- Freezer-friendly dough and filling
- Delicious warm or chilled
- Small batch or big batch-friendly
- Made with pantry staples
- A twist on classic cookie flavors
- Fun to bake and share
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cheesecake filling:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
For the cookie dough:
- Unsalted butter (softened)
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- Instant coffee or espresso powder
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Optional: mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
directions
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Scoop small dollops (about 1 teaspoon) onto a parchment-lined plate and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the cookie dough: In a large bowl, beat together butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, vanilla, and espresso powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until combined. Stir in chocolate chips if using.
- Assemble the cookies: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, flatten slightly, and place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling and roll into a ball. Repeat with remaining dough.
- Chill formed cookie dough balls in the fridge for 2030 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Bake cookies for 1012 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still look slightly underbaked.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Servings and timing
- Servings: About 12 cookies
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (+ 30 minutes chilling)
- Cook Time: 1012 minutes
- Total Time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Mocha version: Add mini chocolate chips and a dash of cocoa powder to the dough
- Pumpkin spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal twist
- No coffee: Skip the espresso powder for cheesecake-stuffed sugar cookies
- Caramel swirl: Add a drizzle of caramel into the cheesecake filling
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
- Chocolate dough: Add melted chocolate or cocoa powder to make a double chocolate base
storage/reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls (with filling) for up to 2 months
- To bake from frozen: Add 12 extra minutes to the baking time
- Reheating: Enjoy at room temp, or microwave for 10 seconds for a warm center
FAQs
Do I have to freeze the cheesecake filling?
Yes, freezing helps it stay intact and creamy inside the cookie during baking.
Can I use brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?
No, espresso powder gives concentrated flavor without adding extra liquid to the dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, chill it for up to 48 hours or freeze it for later baking.
Can I skip the cheesecake filling?
Yes! The dough alone makes a delicious coffee cookie.
What kind of cream cheese should I use?
Use full-fat block cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Can I use flavored coffee?
Yes—hazelnut, vanilla, or caramel espresso powder adds a fun twist.
Do I need a mixer?
A hand mixer makes things easier, but you can also mix everything by hand.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, but the center may look soft—that’s perfect for a chewy texture.
Can I use decaf espresso powder?
Yes, decaf works just as well for flavor without the caffeine.
Are these cookies good cold?
Yes, especially if you like a firmer cheesecake center—they’re delicious straight from the fridge.
Conclusion
Coffee Cheesecake Cookies are the ultimate dessert mash-up—rich, creamy, and bursting with bold coffee flavor. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply want something indulgent with your afternoon coffee, these cookies are a delicious and memorable treat. Make a batch, freeze some for later, and enjoy the best of cheesecake and cookies in one bite.
Description
These Coffee Cheesecake Cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with a sweet, creamy cheesecake center. With just the right touch of espresso flavor and a cozy cookie texture, they’re perfect for coffee lovers and cookie fans alike. Great for gifting, holidays, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up!
For the cheesecake filling:
For the cookie dough:
-
Make the cheesecake filling:
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Scoop into small 1/2 teaspoon-sized dollops onto a parchment-lined plate. Freeze for at least 30 minutes. -
Make the cookie dough:
In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and creamy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and espresso powder until well combined. -
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Fold in chocolate chips, if using.
-
Assemble the cookies:
Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly. Place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center and wrap the dough around it to seal. Roll into a ball and place on a lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining dough and filling. -
Chill the filled dough balls in the fridge for 30 minutes (this helps them hold their shape).
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 1012 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly crackled. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
-
For a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder.
-
Cookies are best stored in the fridge due to the cheesecake center, but can be enjoyed at room temp.
-
Add a dusting of cocoa powder or espresso sugar on top for a fancy finish.