Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy cheesecake and classic chocolate chip cookies. These Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate indulgence, blending the best of both worlds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, or just satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to impress. With a rich cheesecake filling surrounded by gooey chocolate chip cookie dough, each bite offers a delightful surprise.

Why Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies Are a Must-Try

Imagine the melt-in-your-mouth texture of a soft, chewy chocolate chip cookie, but with a luscious cheesecake filling hidden inside. These cookies are the perfect dessert for those who love both cookies and cheesecake but can’t decide which to make. Combining the two brings a unique flavor and texture that you won’t find in your standard cookie recipe.

The creaminess of the cheesecake filling perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate chip cookie dough, making this an indulgent treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients Needed for Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 cups chocolate chips

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While the oven is heating, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies won’t stick.

2. Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by whisking together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until you get a smooth and creamy consistency. Add in the vanilla extract, followed by the egg and the egg yolk. Beat these together until well combined.

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Once the dough forms, gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture, as this will be your creamy cheesecake center.

4. Assemble the Cookies

Scoop out a tablespoon of the cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hands. Create a small hole in the center of the dough with your thumb. Add about half a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling into the hole.

Take another small portion of cookie dough and place it on top of the filling, sealing the edges so the cheesecake is fully enclosed within the cookie dough. Make sure no cheesecake filling is exposed.

5. Bake the Cookies

Arrange the stuffed cookie dough balls onto the prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one. Bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before serving for the best texture.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chill the Cookie Dough

For easier handling, refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before assembly. Chilling the dough helps prevent it from becoming too sticky and also keeps the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Use Flaky Sea Salt

For a gourmet twist, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the cookie dough balls right before baking. The saltiness enhances the sweetness of the cookie and adds a delightful crunch.

Use High-Quality Chocolate Chips

Since chocolate plays a major role in this recipe, it’s worth investing in high-quality chocolate chips. Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile that balances out the sweetness of the cookie dough and cheesecake filling.

Softened Cream Cheese is Key

Ensure the cream cheese for the filling is fully softened before mixing it with the sugar and vanilla. This helps create a smooth, creamy filling that blends easily into the cookie dough.

Variations to Try

1. Add Nuts or Pretzels for Crunch

For extra texture, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough. You could also incorporate crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty flavor combination.

2. Use Different Flavored Chips

While semi-sweet chocolate chips are the classic choice, feel free to experiment with white chocolate, butterscotch, or dark chocolate chips. Each brings a unique flavor that complements the cheesecake filling in a different way.

3. Swap Vanilla for Almond Extract

For a more unique flavor, try swapping out the vanilla extract for almond extract in both the cookie dough and the cheesecake filling. This small change adds a delightful nuttiness to the overall taste of the cookies.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are best enjoyed fresh, when the centers are still creamy and soft. Serve them warm alongside a glass of cold milk for a classic combination, or pair them with vanilla ice cream for an even more decadent dessert.

You can also serve them at room temperature. They make for a great treat to bring to parties, family gatherings, or simply as a snack for yourself. These cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser wherever they go.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. After that, they may start to lose their softness, but they’ll still taste delicious.

Refrigerate for Longevity

To keep them fresher for longer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freeze for Later

You can also freeze the assembled but unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, pop them directly in the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you can have freshly baked cookies whenever the craving strikes!

Nutritional Information

Each cookie is approximately 310 calories. This includes a balance of fats, sugars, and carbohydrates, making them an indulgent treat. While not the healthiest option, these cookies are perfect for occasional enjoyment.

Conclusion

These Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the best of both worlds — the irresistible creaminess of cheesecake and the classic appeal of chocolate chip cookies. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Enjoy every bite of this decadent dessert!