Imagine a buttery, tender cookie hugging a tangy vanilla cheesecake center, with little pockets of rich chocolate chips melting into gooey pockets of goodness with each bite.
These cookies are perfect when you want the classic flavors of cheesecake in a portable, easy to grab snack, ideal for casual gatherings, potlucks, or simply brightening an ordinary afternoon.
SaveI first tested this recipe on a rainy weekend and my kitchen filled with such a cozy, sweet aroma that I could not wait for them to cool before taking the first bite.
Cheesecake Cookies With Chocolate Chips Recipe
Ingredients
Cookies
Cheesecake Filling
Instructions
- Whisk dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined and set aside.
- Cream butter and sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add egg and vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined, then stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
- Chill cookie dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, which helps prevent spreading and intensifies flavor.
- Prepare cheesecake filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then mix in the egg and flour until well blended.
- Portion cookie dough
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon sized balls of cookie dough onto the sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Add filling and top
Press a small indentation into the center of each dough ball, add about a teaspoon of cheesecake filling, then top with a little extra chocolate chip and another small dough ball to form a cookie sandwich.
- Bake until golden
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden while the centers look softly puffed.
- Cool and enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Substitutions and variations
- Use salted butter and reduce added salt to 1/8 teaspoon if you prefer a richer flavor.
- Swap semi sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips to change the flavor profile.
- Replace cream cheese with an equal amount of Greek yogurt for a lighter tang and slightly different texture.
- Use a gluten free flour blend in place of all purpose flour to make these cookies gluten free.
Chloe's tips
- For extra flavor, toast your chocolate chips gently in a dry pan for a few minutes before using them.
- If the cheesecake filling feels too soft, chill it for 10 minutes to firm up before filling the cookies.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning if your oven has hot spots.
How to store it
- Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip top bag for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving suggestions
Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent moment.
- Plated on a rustic wooden board with fresh berries
- Stacked in a cellophane bag tied with ribbon for gifting
- Paired with a lightly sweetened cup of herbal tea
Frequently asked questions
Why are my cookies spreading more than expected?
Chill the cookie dough for at least 15 minutes before baking, and make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh to help control spread.
Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated before using it in the cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done
The edges should look set and lightly golden while the center may still appear slightly soft; it will firm up as the cookies cool.
Can I freeze the unbaked cookie sandwiches
Yes, assemble the cookie sandwiches, freeze them on a tray until solid, then transfer to a bag for baking from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Let's get cooking!
These Cheesecake Cookies with Chocolate Chips are a cozy, crowd pleasing dessert that is surprisingly simple to make and always a hit with friends and family.
