Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg yolk and mix until fully combined.
- Set aside the cheesecake filling in the fridge to firm up slightly while you prepare the cookie dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Doug
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball.
- Flatten the dough ball slightly in your hand and place about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center.
- Gently fold the edges of the dough around the filling, pinching the dough together to seal the cheesecake filling inside.
- Place the cookie dough ball onto the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten it slightly. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- 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
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft.
- 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!