Strawberry Cheesecake Crumbl Cookies

### Instructions

#### 1. **Make the Cookie Base:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
– In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer or by hand. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
– Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

#### 2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:**
– In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
– Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Beat until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth. The filling should be thick but spreadable.

#### 3. **Assemble the Cookies:**
– Press down the center of each cookie dough ball with your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center of each.
– Spoon a small dollop of the cheesecake filling into the center of each cookie, being careful not to overfill. The cheesecake filling will spread slightly during baking, so don’t worry if it doesn’t fill the entire well.

#### 4. **Bake the Cookies:**
– Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The center may still look soft, but that’s okay—this will set as the cookies cool.
– Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

#### 5. **Prepare the Strawberry Topping:**
– While the cookies are cooling, chop the fresh strawberries into small pieces and place them in a small bowl.
– Sprinkle the chopped strawberries with granulated sugar and gently stir to combine. Let them sit for a few minutes to macerate and release their juices.

#### 6. **Finish and Serve:**
– Once the cookies are fully cooled, spoon a small amount of the macerated strawberries onto the center of each cookie. The sweet, juicy strawberries will provide the perfect finishing touch.
– Optionally, drizzle the cookies with a little extra cream cheese glaze or whipped cream for added indulgence.

### Tips and Variations

– **Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries:** Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe. If using frozen strawberries, make sure they’re thawed and drained to avoid excess liquid.
– **Chill the Dough:** If you have time, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape better and reduce spreading.
– **Make the Cheesecake Filling Flavored:** For a twist on the classic flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract to the cheesecake filling to enhance its richness.
– **Add a drizzle:** For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit of white chocolate or cream cheese icing over the top of the cookies before serving.
– **Store the Cookies:** These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to 5 days. The strawberries may release some juice after a day, so it’s best to add them just before serving.

### Why Strawberry Cheesecake Crumbl Cookies Are So Special

**Strawberry Cheesecake Crumbl Cookies** bring together the best parts of two classic desserts—cheesecake and cookies—into one unforgettable treat. The buttery, soft cookie base provides the perfect foundation for the creamy cheesecake filling, while the fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and brightness that elevates each bite. Whether you’re looking for a fun dessert for a picnic, a sweet treat for a celebration, or a new go-to cookie recipe, these cookies offer a unique and delicious twist on traditional cheesecake and cookie combinations.

### Final Thoughts

With their rich, creamy filling and the sweet burst of strawberries on top, **Strawberry Cheesecake Crumbl Cookies** are sure to become a fan favorite in your home. These cookies have it all: flavor, texture, and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy elements. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dessert, a holiday treat, or a way to impress your guests at a party. If you’re craving something indulgent and fun to bake, these cookies should definitely be at the top of your list!