Name: Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup finely chopped apple (peeled); 1/3 cup soft caramel bits or chopped soft caramels

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Imagine a cookie that captures every cozy flavor of autumn in a single bite — that’s exactly what you get with these Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies. As soon as they come out of the oven, their buttery aroma, cinnamon undertones, creamy cheesecake centers, tender apple bits, and chewy caramel create an irresistible experience. This recipe will have you swooning whether you’re baking for a fall gathering, sharing with family, or just indulging in a little self-care treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies lies in a handful of essential, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to deliver layers of flavor: soft apples for tartness, gooey caramels for richness, and luscious cream cheese for that cheesecake surprise.

Unsalted butter: Forms the rich, tender base of the cookies—make sure it’s softened so everything blends smoothly.
Brown sugar: Adds caramel-like depth and enhances the cookies’ moist chewiness.
Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps get those perfectly golden edges.
Large egg: Provides structure and ensures a soft, cakey texture.
Vanilla extract: Lifts all the flavors with its fragrant, comforting aroma.
All-purpose flour: Gives body to hold all those fabulous mix-ins (and that cheesecake center!).
Baking soda: Provides a gentle lift and helps keep the cookies soft.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances every flavor in the mix.
Ground cinnamon: For a warm, spicy note that pairs perfectly with apples.
Finely chopped apple (peeled): Apples like Granny Smith lend juicy, tart bursts to every bite.
Soft caramel bits or chopped soft caramels: These melt into gooey pockets amid the crumbly dough.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake center—be sure it’s softened for a silky filling.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the cream cheese filling.
Powdered sugar: Lends that classic “cheesecake” sweetness to the filling.
Vanilla extract (for the filling): Echoes the cookie’s flavor in the creamy core.

How to Make Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Start by beating together your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla until the mixture is ultra-smooth and creamy. Scoop tiny teaspoon-sized mounds onto a parchment-lined plate, then freeze them for 20–30 minutes. This quick chill firms them up, making it so much easier to tuck them neatly inside the cookie dough later.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. This step is crucial for a light, tender cookie. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate everything and build the cookie’s flavor foundation.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This aromatic blend not only ensures an even rise but infuses each bite of the Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies with cozy warmth. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your butter/sugar mixture until everything is just combined.

Step 4: Fold in Apples and Caramel

Gently stir in the finely chopped apples and soft caramel bits. The apples bring moisture and bright flavor, while the caramels melt into luscious, gooey pools throughout the cookies.

Step 5: Stuff and Shape the Cookies

Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place one of your frozen cheesecake mounds in the center, then carefully wrap the dough all around it, pinching to seal and rolling gently into a ball. Repeat until all dough and filling is used up. Chill these stuffed dough balls for 15 minutes to keep them bakery-perfect while baking.

Step 6: Bake!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the stuffed cookies two inches apart so they have room to spread. Bake for 12–14 minutes, until the edges are just turning golden and the centers are set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

How to Serve Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar gives these Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies a charming, bakery-style finish. For a little extra flair, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the tops or sprinkle with a touch more cinnamon for cozy color.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a mug of cinnamon-spiced apple cider or a creamy chai latte to bring out all the lovely autumn notes. For a dessert platter, team them with crisp apple slices and sharp cheddar cheese—an unexpected, irresistible combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these cookies high on a rustic wooden board with clusters of grapes and fresh apple wedges for a casual get-together. Or serve each one nestled in a parchment cupcake liner with a little caramel drizzle for a sweet finish to any dinner party. For gifting, pop them in a bakery box tied up with twine for maximum “wow” factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

For optimal texture and freshness, store leftover Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keeping them chilled helps maintain the creamy cheesecake centers and preserves the apples’ brightness. They’ll stay delicious for up to four days!

Freezing

Want to make these cookies ahead? Once baked and cooled, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment in an airtight container and freeze for up to two months. Alternatively, freeze the raw, stuffed dough balls and bake straight from the freezer (add a minute or two to the bake time). Perfect for impromptu cravings!

Reheating

Enjoy these cookies chilled or gently reheat them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes—the centers will be creamy and the caramels will get just the right amount of gooey. Microwave for 10–15 seconds if you love a soft, warm cookie with melting caramel.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Dessert

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples give a wonderful tart contrast, any firm, crisp variety will work. Honeycrisp delivers a sweeter chew, while Braeburn offers a balanced flavor. Just avoid apples that are too soft, as they release more moisture.

What kind of caramel is best for Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies?

Soft caramel bits designed for baking are ideal, as they melt easily and distribute well in the dough. If you only have traditional soft caramels, just chop them into small pieces before folding them in.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour—the cookies will still bake up beautifully. Check that your caramel and cream cheese are also gluten-free.

Why chill the dough before baking?

Chilling helps the cookie dough maintain its shape while baking and prevents overspreading. It also firms up the cheesecake centers so they stay perfectly set and creamy inside each cookie.

Do I have to refrigerate leftover cookies with cream cheese filling?

Yes, because the cheesecake centers are dairy-based, refrigeration keeps them safe and fresh. Just bring the cookies to room temperature for a few minutes before serving if you prefer them a bit softer.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the surprise of sinking your teeth into warm, Cinnamon-scented Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies and discovering that tangy, creamy center. If you’re hunting for a cookie that’s truly special—whether to share with loved ones or savor all to yourself—give these a try. Your oven (and your tastebuds) will thank you!

Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe

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4.8 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)
Yield: 12 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and tart apples with these Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies. A perfect treat for the fall season!

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Filling:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cookies:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup finely chopped apple (peeled)
1/3 cup soft caramel bits or chopped soft caramels

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Instructions

Cheesecake Filling: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Freeze in teaspoon-sized mounds.
Cookies: Cream butter and sugars. Add egg and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients; combine with wet. Fold in apples and caramels. Wrap dough around cheesecake mounds. Chill. Bake at 350°F for 12–14 minutes.