How to make Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Scoop into small dollops (about 1 teaspoon each) and freeze for 30 minutes or until firm.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, and mix until combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Fold in chocolate chips. Chill dough for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 5: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten it slightly in your palm, and place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center. Wrap dough around it to seal and roll into a ball.
Step 6: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing cookies 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are golden.
Step 7: Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm for gooey centers, or chill to set the cheesecake filling.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Add-ins: Stir in chopped nuts or white chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Flavored cheesecake: Add lemon zest, espresso powder, or almond extract to the cheesecake filling.
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Mini version: Make smaller cookies with just 1 tablespoon dough and 1/2 teaspoon cheesecake filling.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10-12 seconds to soften the cookie and warm the filling.
- Freezing: Freeze assembled dough balls before baking. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to baking
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