If you are looking for a delightful treat that perfectly combines the richness of cheesecake with the irresistible charm of chocolate chip cookies, you have to try these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe. Each bite is a harmonious blend of soft, creamy cheesecake filling wrapped in tender, chocolate-studded cookie dough, creating a unique texture and flavor experience that will quickly become a family favorite. They are the ultimate indulgence when you want something a little bit special yet comfortingly familiar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together in perfect harmony to create these dreamy cookies. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy tang of the cream cheese to the sweet bursts of chocolate chips, making these cookies both soft and flavorful.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and keeps the cookie tender.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides moisture and a subtle caramel note that deepens flavor.
- 1/4 cup white sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to a light texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and gives structure to the dough.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm aroma.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps cookies rise and results in a soft crumb.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances depth of flavor.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: The star ingredient that brings chocolatey goodness in every bite.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the luxuriously creamy cheesecake filling.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake center without overpowering it.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds extra flavor to the cheesecake filling.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures a clean baking surface and helps cook your cookies evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Chill this filling while you prepare the cookie dough to make it easier to handle later. This rich filling is what sets this recipe apart and makes your cookies soft and creamy inside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy; this step incorporates air for a tender texture. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Slowly add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed to give every bite a delicious chocolate surprise.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Scoop about one tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place one teaspoon of the chilled cheesecake filling in the center. Then, cover the filling with another small portion of dough, sealing the edges carefully so the filling doesn’t leak out during baking. Roll the assembled cookie into a smooth ball. This sealing step is key to achieving soft and creamy pockets of cheesecake inside the cookie.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. The gentle baking ensures the cookies remain tender with luscious cheesecake centers.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes so they set up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows them to firm up just enough for handling but keeps that soft, dreamy texture inside.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are amazing on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful touch of sweetness and a festive look. For an extra special touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top to elevate your presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee or tea to complement their creamy texture and enhance the chocolate flavor. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also turn these cookies into an indulgent dessert treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party idea, arrange these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe on a platter with fresh berries or mint leaves for color contrast. You can also sandwich two cookies together with extra cheesecake filling for an irresistible cookie cheesecake sandwich that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cookies will maintain their softness and creamy filling, perfect for quick snacking or dessert.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either before or after baking. Freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in a sealed container to enjoy later without losing texture or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat stored cookies, warm them gently in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds to bring back their soft, creamy essence. Enjoy them warm for the best experience—like fresh from the oven!
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While low-fat cream cheese can be used, it may affect the creaminess and texture of the filling since full-fat cream cheese provides the best richness that defines these cookies.
Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?
Because of the cream cheese filling, it’s best to store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature if consuming within a couple of days, otherwise refrigeration is recommended to keep the filling fresh.
Can I substitute dark chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips will add a more intense chocolate flavor and pair beautifully with the tangy cheesecake center.
Is it okay to make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the dough and filling a day ahead and refrigerating them separately is a great time-saving option that actually helps the flavors meld better.
What’s the best way to seal the dough around the cheesecake filling?
Use your fingers gently but firmly to pinch the edges together, ensuring no gaps or cracks where the filling could leak out while baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. The marriage of rich cheesecake and classic chocolate chip cookie is pure magic. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy sharing these wonderfully soft and creamy delights with your loved ones—it’s a cookie experience you won’t forget!
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Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies, a perfect fusion of soft, chewy cookies and creamy cheesecake filling. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures and rich flavors, making these cookies an irresistible treat for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Chill the filling in the refrigerator while preparing the cookie dough to keep it firm.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Cream the softened butter and both sugars together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating well to combine.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Assemble Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and slightly flatten it in your hand. Place approximately 1 teaspoon of the chilled cheesecake filling in the center. Cover with another spoonful of dough, sealing the edges completely, then roll into a ball shape to encase the filling.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the filled dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown but the centers remain soft.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the creamy, dreamy texture!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is well softened for a smooth filling.
- Chilling the cheesecake filling helps it hold its shape during baking.
- Do not overbake; cookies should be golden at the edges but soft in the center.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a flavor twist, consider adding nuts or using white chocolate chips instead.
