Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
|

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe with you! These cookies are a magical blend of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and rich cheesecake filling all wrapped up in a soft, buttery cookie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a fresh new flavor combo, these cookies seriously hit the spot.

What I love most about this Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is how perfect it is for spring and summer afternoons—or anytime you’re craving something bright but indulgent. The lemon zest lifts the flavors, and the homemade blueberry jam gives them that homemade touch that makes you feel like a true baking pro. Plus, they’re pretty straightforward to make, so you can impress friends with your baking skills without too much fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe plays a crucial role—the tangy cream cheese balances the sweetness, the lemon zest brings freshness, and the blueberry jam adds bursts of juicy flavor. Here’s what you’ll want to gather, plus some tips to get the best results.

  • Cream Cheese: Use cold, full-fat cream cheese to get that creamy cheesecake filling texture without it melting out during baking.
  • Granulated White Sugar: You’ll use sugar in the filling, jam, and cookie dough—make sure it’s the regular stuff for that perfect sweetness and structure.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth, making all the flavors sing.
  • Fresh Blueberries: Fresh is best for the jam—avoid frozen to prevent excess moisture affecting the cookie dough.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Spoon and level it for accuracy to keep cookies tender but sturdy.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt: These leavening agents help the cookies rise just right and add balance to the sweetness.
  • Lemon Zest: The real star for the lemon kick—only zest the yellow part to avoid bitterness.
  • Unsalted Butter: Very softened butter ensures creaminess and good dough consistency; I like to let mine sit out for about an hour.
  • Egg: At room temperature, it blends more evenly into the dough.
  • Sugar for Rolling: Rolling the dough balls in extra sugar before baking adds a lovely sparkle and subtle crunch.

Variations

Sometimes, I like to switch things up a bit when making these Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe—because let’s be honest, baking should be fun and personal! Feel encouraged to try these variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.

  • Gluten-Free Version: I swapped out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend once with awesome results—just make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
  • Vegan Modification: You can replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese for a tasty vegan spin I tested and loved.
  • Seasonal Berry Switch: If blueberries aren’t in season, fresh raspberries or blackberries work well in the jam—I’ve done this during winter markets with great flavor too!
  • Extra Crunch: Adding chopped toasted almonds to the dough adds a fantastic texture contrast—I’ve made this for holiday parties and everyone loved it.

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Make the Blueberry Jam

Start by prepping the blueberry jam—it’s the heart of these cookies. Combine fresh blueberries and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 10-15 minutes. You want the berries to burst and the jam to reduce slightly—not too thick, since it’ll thicken more as it cools. Let it cool completely before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

While the jam cools, mix your cold cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. I use a hand mixer for this step because it’s quicker and ensures a silky filling without lumps. Refrigerate the filling while you mix the cookie dough—this keeps it nice and firm for piping later.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate larger bowl, cream the softened butter, sugar, and lemon zest until fluffy—that’s where the lemon oils release their magic. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then slowly add the dry ingredients until combined but don’t overmix. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes—it makes rolling easier and helps the cookies keep their shape. Once chilled, scoop a tablespoon-size ball of dough and roll it in sugar, then flatten slightly in your palm. Place a small dollop of cheesecake filling in the center, add a tiny spoon of blueberry jam on top, then cover with another small dough ball, sealing the edges carefully. Trust me—take your time here to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 12-15 minutes, until the edges turn a soft golden color. Don’t overbake—you want them tender and soft, not crisp. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling step is key to avoid breaking as they set up.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

The image shows eight ingredients placed on a white marbled surface, each in a small white bowl or plate. At the top left, there is a bowl full of dark blue, round blueberries. Next to it on the right is a scalloped bowl filled with fluffy white powdered sugar. Below the blueberries is a rectangular block of white cream cheese with texture lines, and next to it on the right is a small bowl with dark brown vanilla extract. Beside the extract is a single brown egg. Below the cream cheese block is a white plate holding a white square block of tofu or similar soft cheese. In the center bottom is a small bowl filled with white shredded coconut, and to its right is a small bowl of white granulated sugar. At the bottom right corner is a larger bowl full of white flour, looking powdery and soft. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I often sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top of these cookies after they’ve cooled—it adds a delicate sweetness and makes them look extra pretty. Sometimes I garnish with a tiny twist of lemon zest for a fresh pop of color and aroma that invites you to take a bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cup of hot tea or fresh lemonade for a perfect afternoon snack. I’ve also served them alongside a light vanilla yogurt dip for a fun twist that complements the cheesecake flavor beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arranged these cookies neatly in a tiered dessert stand with fresh blueberries and lemon slices scattered around for a vibrant display. They make gorgeous gifts too—wrap a few in parchment paper tied with twine and include a handwritten label of the Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe for a personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If I want to keep them soft, I add a slice of bread in the container—it works like magic to keep moisture in without sogginess.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! I usually flash freeze the cookie dough balls on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When I’m ready to bake, I just thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as usual, sometimes adding an extra minute to the bake time.

Reheating

If you want that fresh-baked feel, I pop leftovers in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them in a low oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. The cheesecake filling stays creamy, and the cookie softens perfectly without drying out.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen blueberries for the jam in this Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe?

    While fresh blueberries are best because they release less water, you can use frozen blueberries if you thaw and drain them well before cooking the jam. Just be mindful the jam might be a bit looser, so cook it a little longer to thicken properly.

  2. How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking during baking?

    Make sure the cream cheese filling is cold and firm before assembling, and be gentle when sealing the dough around it. Also, don’t overfill the cookies—small dollops work best to avoid leaks.

  3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

    Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge. This actually helps develop the lemon flavor too.

  4. Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?

    Since the filling contains cream cheese, it’s best to store baked cookies in the fridge if you’re keeping them longer than two days to maintain freshness and food safety.

  5. Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with another type?

    You could try mascarpone or ricotta for a different texture and flavor but be aware it might affect how the filling holds up during baking. I recommend sticking with cream cheese for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite baking projects—it’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell like sunshine and leaves you with cookies that everyone wants seconds of. I hope you have as much fun making (and eating) these as I do. Trust me, once you get the hang of the filling and jam assembly, these cookies are a total crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 756 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 40 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies combine the tangy richness of cheesecake with sweet blueberry jam and bright lemon zest in a soft, buttery cookie. Each bite offers a luscious cream cheese filling paired with vibrant blueberry jam, nestled within tender lemon-infused cookies rolled in sugar for a subtle crunch. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful everyday treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Filling

  • 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
  • 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Blueberry Jam

  • 12 oz (340 g) fresh blueberries
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar

Cookies

  • 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
  • 2 tbsp (20 g) lemon zest
  • 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, very softened
  • 1 egg, at room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar, for rolling dough in

Instructions

  1. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, combine the cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix together until smooth and creamy. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the other components.
  2. Prepare the Blueberry Jam: In a small saucepan, combine fresh blueberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the berries break down and the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
  3. Mix the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, sugar, and lemon zest together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Assemble the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a tablespoon of dough and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center, followed by 1 teaspoon of the cooled blueberry jam. Fold the dough up around the filling to enclose it fully, then form into a ball. Roll the ball in the remaining granulated sugar to coat.
  5. Bake: Place the coated dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is cold before mixing to achieve the best filling texture.
  • The blueberry jam can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest to 3 tablespoons if desired.
  • Do not overbake the cookies to keep them soft and chewy.
  • Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days due to the cream cheese filling.

Similar Posts