Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
If you are on the lookout for a delightful dessert that marries two of the most beloved treats, you have to try this Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. Imagine biting into a perfectly soft chocolate chip cookie that hides a luscious, creamy cheesecake center—each bite bursts with rich, sweet, and tangy flavors that feel like a warm hug. This recipe transforms everyday ingredients into an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and essential ingredients is the first step toward creating these incredible Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the buttery softness of the dough to the tangy creaminess of the cheesecake filling, giving you a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the sturdy base for the cookie dough, ensuring the right chewiness.
- Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and become wonderfully soft around the edges.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and adds slight crispness to the cookie exterior.
- Brown Sugar: Infuses moisture and a hint of caramel flavor into the dough.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and contributes to the cookie’s tender crumb.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture for a soft texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Elevates the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Chocolate Chips: Provide that classic chocolate burst we all crave inside each cookie.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the stuffing, delivering smooth and tangy creaminess.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling without graininess.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a subtle brightness to balance the richness of the cream cheese.
How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This simple prep gets you ready to create the magic.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light—this is the key to a texture that melts in your mouth. Then mix in the egg and vanilla extract, which add richness and fragrant depth to the dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s silky smooth with no lumps. Add powdered sugar and a splash of lemon juice, beating until everything is combined and airy. This mixture is what gives the cookies their signature creamy surprise.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Divide your cookie dough in half. Spoon dollops of half the dough onto your baking sheets, flattening each slightly. Then add a scoop of the cheesecake filling on top. Cover each cheesecake dollop with the remaining cookie dough, sealing the edges carefully so the filling stays inside during baking.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Look for cookies that are golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center—that’s a sign they’ll have the perfect chewy texture when cooled. Let them cool before indulging so the filling can set just right.
How to Serve Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Try dusting your cookies with a little powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for extra indulgence. Fresh berries on the side can add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the richness.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cold glass of milk. For adults, a cup of strong coffee or a lightly sweetened latte complements the dessert’s sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your cheesecake stuffed chocolate chip cookies warm in a dessert platter with an array of dipping sauces like caramel, strawberry compote, or chocolate ganache. You can also sandwich two cookies together with extra cheesecake filling for a decadent cookie cheesecake sandwich experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This maintains their softness without drying out the cheesecake filling inside.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies by placing them on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to two months and thaw beautifully for a quick treat when needed.
Reheating
Warm your thawed or leftover cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to revive that freshly baked softness and creamy filling sensation.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, the filling might be less creamy and slightly tangier, so full-fat cream cheese usually provides the best flavor and texture balance.
How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking during baking?
Make sure to fully encase the cheesecake filling within the cookie dough and gently press the edges to seal. Chilling the assembled cookies before baking can also help keep the filling contained.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Substituting dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives may work, but the texture and flavor will differ. Experiment with your preferred brands to get a satisfying result.
What is the best way to soften butter for this recipe?
Leave butter out at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes until it’s soft to the touch but not melted. This helps in creaming it smoothly with sugars, creating the perfect dough base.
Can I make smaller or larger cookies with this recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller cookies will bake faster and might be crispier, while larger ones will take a few extra minutes and offer a gooier center.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is a heartwarming combination of two classic treats that never fails to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these cookies offer comfort, joy, and a little surprise in every bite. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be sharing smiles (and crumbs) in no time!
Print
Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies that combine the best of two worlds: soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake center. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for a rich treat that balances sweetness and texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare cookie dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Stir in the all-purpose flour and baking soda until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
- Make cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and lemon juice, then mix until the filling is airy and well incorporated.
- Assemble cookies: Divide the cookie dough in half. Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets and flatten them slightly to form a base layer. Add generous dollops of the cheesecake filling on top of the dough bases. Carefully cover each dollop with remaining cookie dough, sealing the edges to encase the cheesecake filling fully.
- Bake cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown at the edges but still soft in the center. Avoid overbaking to maintain the creamy cheesecake texture inside.
- Cool and serve: Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy once cooled to fully appreciate the cheesecake center.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
- Do not overbake to keep the cheesecake center creamy and the cookie soft.
- You can refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.
- Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cheesecake filling fresh.
- For a lemony twist, add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
