Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Mix ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the egg: Beat in the egg until well combined. If desired, fold in mini chocolate chips for an extra treat.
3. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheesecake filling while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until fully incorporated.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix everything together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Form cookie balls: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, take a tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it in your palm.
3. Add cheesecake filling: Place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center, then fold the cookie dough around it to form a ball, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.
4. Place on baking sheet: Arrange the stuffed cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
2. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success:

• Chill the dough: If the cookie dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before forming the balls.
• Don’t overmix: Be careful not to overmix the cookie dough after adding the dry ingredients; this will help keep the cookies tender.
• Variations: Experiment with different cheesecake flavors, such as strawberry or lemon, by adding pureed fruit or zest to the filling.

Pairing Suggestions:

These indulgent cookies are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.

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Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are a deliciously rich and satisfying dessert that will leave everyone craving more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to indulge in a sweet treat, these cookies offer a delightful twist on classic flavors. So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and prepare to impress your family and friends with these irresistible delights!