Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

Cheesecake-stuffed red velvet cookies combine the rich flavors of red velvet with a delightful surprise of creamy cheesecake in the center. Here’s a recipe for this delicious treat:

Ingredients:

For the Red Velvet Cookie Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional:

• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Place the mixture in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the cookie dough.

2. Make Red Velvet Cookie Dough:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

3. Assemble the Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Take a small portion of the red velvet cookie dough and flatten it in your hand.
3. Spoon a small amount of the chilled cheesecake filling into the center of the flattened dough.
4. Wrap the cookie dough around the cheesecake filling, ensuring it is completely covered. Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Repeat this process for the remaining dough and filling, leaving enough space between each cookie.

4. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. The centers may still be slightly soft.

5. Cool and Dust (Optional):

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy these delightful Cheesecake-Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies as a decadent and delicious treat!