Name: Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups salted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 packages graham crackers, crushed (approx. 2 1/2 cups crumbs); 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature; 7 oz marshmallow creme; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup caramel dip or thick caramel sauce; Coarse sea salt (for topping)

Jump to Recipe

If you love the flavor of creamy cheesecake and can’t resist the sweet-salty contrast of salted caramel, these Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are your new favorite indulgence. Built on a soft graham cracker cookie base and topped with a rich cheesecake frosting, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of sea salt, these cookies are like individual bites of cheesecake heaven—no forks or plates required.

The graham cracker cookie is buttery, chewy, and reminiscent of the classic cheesecake crust, but elevated with brown sugar and vanilla for added depth. The cheesecake frosting brings that unmistakable tang and richness, thanks to cream cheese and marshmallow creme. And the finishing touch—a caramel drizzle and coarse sea salt—adds both visual appeal and flavor complexity. These cookies are decadent enough for special occasions but simple enough to make on a whim.

Whether you’re hosting a party, baking for a cookie swap, or just want to surprise someone with a dessert that’s truly over the top, Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies hit every note. They’re unique, irresistible, and unforgettable—just the kind of treat you’ll be asked to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesecake in Cookie Form: All the flavor and texture of classic cheesecake—without the baking pan or water bath.
Perfect Sweet and Salty Balance: The caramel and sea salt topping creates a gourmet flavor profile.
Incredible Texture: Soft, chewy graham cracker cookie base topped with smooth, creamy frosting.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: These cookies stand out on any dessert table and are guaranteed to impress.
Easy to Customize: Add your own twist with toppings, mix-ins, or drizzles.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Cookie

Salted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla
All-purpose flour
Graham crackers, crushed
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt

Cheesecake Frosting and Drizzle

Cream cheese
Marshmallow creme
Powdered sugar
Caramel dip
Coarse sea salt

Variations

Chocolate Caramel

Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough or drizzle with chocolate ganache along with the caramel.

Pretzel Crunch

Top with crushed pretzels for an extra salty-sweet twist.

Fruit-Topped

Place a thin slice of fresh strawberry or a few blueberries on the frosting for a cheesecake-inspired fruit variation.

Stuffed Center

Scoop a bit of cheesecake filling into the center of the dough and bake to create a gooey-filled cookie.

Pumpkin Spice

Add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the cookie dough for a fall-inspired version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, crushed graham crackers, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until fully combined.

Step 6

Scoop dough into uniform balls and place on prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden.

Step 7

Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8

For the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and marshmallow creme until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.

Step 9

Frost each cooled cookie with the cheesecake frosting. Drizzle with caramel and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother frosting consistency.
Don’t overbake the cookies—they should be soft in the center and lightly golden on the edges.
Crush graham crackers finely for even texture in the cookie dough.
Chill the frosting for 10–15 minutes if it’s too soft to spread.
Drizzle caramel just before serving to maintain its glossy look.

How to Serve

Serve these cookies chilled or at room temperature for the perfect soft texture and creamy topping. They’re perfect for dessert platters, bake sales, potlucks, or a treat with your afternoon coffee. Garnish with an extra pinch of salt or a few crumbs of graham cracker for added flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then frost and drizzle with caramel before serving.

Reheating

These cookies are best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, any thick caramel dip or sauce works well for drizzling. Avoid thin syrups which may run off.

2. What if I don’t have marshmallow creme?

You can replace it with an equal amount of whipped topping or add more powdered sugar to thicken the frosting.

3. Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but you may want to add an extra ¼ teaspoon of salt to the cookie dough.

4. Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is required, but chilling can help control spread and enhance flavor.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

6. How do I make the frosting pipeable?

Chill it slightly, then use a piping bag with a large round tip for a bakery-style look.

7. Can I use homemade caramel?

Absolutely. Homemade caramel dip adds a richer flavor—just be sure it’s thick and cool before drizzling.

8. Why is my frosting runny?

Your cream cheese or butter may have been too soft. Chill the mixture and re-whip before using.

9. Can I add nuts?

Chopped pecans or walnuts make a great addition sprinkled on top.

10. Are these good for gifting?

Yes! Package them in cupcake liners inside a bakery box for an impressive edible gift.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies combine everything you love about cheesecake and cookies in one decadent dessert. With a soft graham cracker base, tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting, and a salty caramel finish, they’re indulgent without being overly complicated. Perfect for impressing guests, gifting, or treating yourself, these cookies are destined to become a favorite in your baking rotation.