If you’re craving something bright, creamy, and downright irresistible, these Key Lime Cheesecake Cookies will become your new favorite bake. Inspired by the classic key lime pie, these cookies wrap a smooth cheesecake filling inside buttery lime-scented cookie dough — a perfect fusion of two iconic desserts.
Why You’ll Love These Key Lime Cheesecake Cookies
- Stuffed with real cheesecake filling for a delightful creamy center
- Bright, zesty flavor from fresh key lime juice and zest
- Soft and buttery texture with a slight crisp on the edges
- Impressively unique yet easy enough for any skill level
Every bite is a layered experience — first the tender lime cookie, then a burst of tangy cheesecake tucked inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 12 tbsp cream cheese, softened (use full-fat for richness)
- 4½ tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp key lime zest (3–4 key limes)
- 1 tsp key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tbsp key lime zest (4–5 key limes)
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tbsp key lime juice
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
How to Make Key Lime Cheesecake Cookies
🧊 Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, key lime zest, and key lime juice until smooth. Scoop out 23 heaping teaspoons onto parchment paper and freeze for at least 45 minutes until solid.
🍋 Step 2: Make the Lime Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream butter, both sugars, and lime zest until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). Add the egg, vanilla, and key lime juice. Mix until combined. Add flour, baking soda, and salt, stirring just until no dry streaks remain. The dough should be soft and slightly crumbly.
🍪 Step 3: Stuff and Shape the Cookies
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment. Scoop dough into 2-tablespoon balls. Press a frozen cheesecake filling ball into the center of each and gently wrap the dough around to seal it completely.
🔥 Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake one sheet at a time for 9–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops are lightly golden. Let cookies cool fully on the baking sheet so they can firm up and finish baking from residual heat.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Zest your limes before juicing — it’s much easier this way!
- Avoid overmixing once you add flour to keep the cookies soft.
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate flour measuring — too much leads to dry dough.
- Don’t skip freezing the filling — this ensures it stays creamy and doesn’t melt into the cookie dough while baking.
- For a beautiful finish, sprinkle a little extra zest over the tops before baking.
Final Thoughts
These Key Lime Cheesecake Cookies bring the sunshine to your dessert table with every bite. Bursting with citrus and rich with creamy filling, they’re the perfect mix of refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating summer or just want something zesty and special, these cookies are the answer.
Grab your limes, preheat your oven, and enjoy the cookie version of key lime pie — no fork required!