Homemade Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the egg yolk and mix until fully combined.
3. Set aside the cheesecake filling in the fridge to firm up slightly while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Doug

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball.
2. Flatten the dough ball slightly in your hand and place about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center.
3. Gently fold the edges of the dough around the filling, pinching the dough together to seal the cheesecake filling inside.
4. Place the cookie dough ball onto the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten it slightly. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
5. Make sure to leave a little space between each cookie on the baking sheet, as they will spread slightly during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft.
2. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: If the cookie dough feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to help firm it up before shaping the cookies.
• Don’t Overfill: When filling the cookies, be sure not to overstuff the filling, as it could spill out while baking. A teaspoon of cheesecake filling is just enough!
• Keep the Cream Cheese Softened: For a smooth cheesecake filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
• Customize the Chocolate Chips: You can use a mix of dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even white chocolate chips if you prefer!

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of a chewy, slightly crisp chocolate chip cookie with a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling is irresistible. The cheesecake filling stays rich and soft inside the cookie, while the chocolate chips add a delicious texture contrast. These cookies are not only decadent but also wonderfully balanced, with the cream cheese filling providing a tangy note that complements the sweetness of the cookie dough and chocolate chips.

These Homemade Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re indulging on a quiet afternoon or impressing guests at a gathering!