Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies

Name: Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 200 g granulated sugar; 110 g butter; 1 large egg; 210 g all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp poppy seeds; 200 g cream cheese (for frosting); 120 g heavy cream (for frosting)

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

December 21, 2025

Updated:

December 21, 2025

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These Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion! Their fluffy texture and tangy lemon flavor are complemented by a rich cheesecake frosting, making them a standout dessert. Whether you’re celebrating Easter, hosting a spring gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies will impress everyone with their unique taste and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon and poppy seeds creates a bright and vibrant flavor profile that is refreshing and delicious.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for holidays, brunches, or afternoon tea, these cookies fit perfectly into various occasions.
Cheesecake Frosting Delight: The creamy cheesecake frosting adds a luxurious touch that elevates these cookies beyond the ordinary.
Eye-Catching Presentation: Topped with poppy seeds and garnished with lemon slices, these cookies are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures an even blend of ingredients for the frosting.
Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when baking your cookies.

Ingredients

These are the best Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies! These delicious thick lemon poppy seed cookies are topped with a smooth cheesecake frosting.

For the Cookies

200 g granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon zest
110 g butter
1 large egg (59-60 g with shell)
1 tsp vanilla extract
210 g all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tbsp poppy seeds
1/2 tsp salt

For the Cheesecake Frosting

200 g cream cheese (cold)
1 tsp vanilla extract
75 g powdered sugar
1 tbsp agave or honey
120 g heavy cream

For Garnish

Poppy seeds for sprinkling on top (optional)
Lemon slices for decoration (optional)

How to Make Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Add butter and beat with an electric mixer until creamy. Then incorporate the egg and vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, poppy seeds, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Shape and Bake Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden around the edges. Let them cool on a cooling rack.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Frosting

While cookies cool down, beat together cold cream cheese, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, agave or honey, and heavy cream in a mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy.

Step 6: Frost the Cookies

Once cooled, generously spread the cheesecake frosting over each cookie. Optionally sprinkle with poppy seeds and garnish with lemon slices for added flair.

Your Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies are now ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dessert that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies

These delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet treat, serving suggestions can elevate your cookie experience.

Enjoy with Tea or Coffee

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon snack.

Serve at Gatherings

These cookies make an excellent addition to parties or gatherings. Their bright flavor and unique texture will impress your guests.

Package as Gifts

Wrap these cookies in decorative boxes or bags to give as gifts during holidays or celebrations.

Top with Fresh Fruit

Add some fresh berries or citrus slices on the side to enhance the flavor and presentation of the cookies.

How to Perfect Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies

Perfecting your Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies is easier than you might think. Here are some helpful tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies. This keeps them soft and chewy.
Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This step enhances flavor and prevents spreading.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, which helps achieve perfectly baked cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their vibrant flavors. Here are some great options to consider when serving:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the cookies.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses, especially creamy varieties, which contrast nicely with the lemony cookies.
Lemonade: Serve these cookies alongside a chilled glass of homemade lemonade for a refreshing treat on warm days.
Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of rich cheesecake cookies.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert lovers, a small serving of chocolate mousse adds indulgence and richness next to the lemon poppy seed flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Using stale ingredients – Check the freshness of your baking soda and baking powder. Old ingredients can lead to cookies that don’t rise properly.
Not measuring accurately – Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar. This ensures consistent texture and flavor.
Skipping chilling time – Don’t skip refrigerating the dough if the recipe calls for it. Chilling helps the flavors develop and keeps your cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Overmixing the dough – Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of light and fluffy.
Ignoring oven temperature – Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature before baking. An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate cooking conditions.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies

Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warm.
Microwave – Heat each cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, placing a lid over it for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute ingredients in Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese or butter substitutes if needed. Adjusting sweeteners is also possible, but keep an eye on consistency.

How do I get my cookies to be more lemony?

For a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon juice into your cookie dough. Just ensure not to add too much liquid.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?

Chill your dough longer before baking, and ensure you’re using enough flour. A thicker dough holds its shape better during baking.

How long do these cookies last?

Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and about 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies are delightful treats that combine tangy lemon with creamy cheesecake frosting. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Feel free to customize them with different toppings or flavors to suit your taste! Enjoy making and sharing these delicious cookies!