When two of the most beloved desserts—cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies—come together, you get an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress! These Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are decadent, gooey, and bursting with flavor. Each bite delivers the rich, creamy surprise of cheesecake tucked inside a classic, buttery chocolate chip cookie.
This recipe is a favorite in my family, especially for special occasions or when I want to wow guests with a creative twist on a classic dessert. It’s not as complicated as it looks, and the results are absolutely worth the little extra effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Combination: The creamy cheesecake filling takes chocolate chip cookies to a whole new level.
- Perfect Surprise: The hidden cheesecake center adds an element of fun and surprise to every bite.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether for a holiday tray, party dessert, or weekend indulgence, these cookies are always a hit.
- Make-Ahead Option: The filling can be prepared ahead of time, making assembly quick and easy.
Recipe: Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of the dough.
- Take another smaller scoop of cookie dough, flatten it, and place it over the filling. Seal the edges of the dough together, ensuring the cheesecake filling is completely enclosed.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling. Place the assembled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature for the ultimate indulgence.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
These cookies are best served warm when the cheesecake filling is soft and gooey. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for the perfect treat.
Storage:
Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature or reheat briefly in the microwave before serving.
Freezing Option:
Both the cookie dough and the baked cookies freeze well. Freeze the dough balls (with the cheesecake filling) on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once firm. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the bake time. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Helpful Tips
- Firm Filling: Chilling the cheesecake filling ensures it doesn’t ooze out while assembling the cookies.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough cheesecake filling to avoid the cookies splitting during baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened butter and cream cheese to ensure a smooth cookie dough and filling.
- Bake in Batches: If your dough feels too soft while assembling, refrigerate it briefly before continuing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use flavored cream cheese for the filling?
Yes, flavored cream cheese like strawberry or chocolate can add a fun twist to these cookies.
Q2: Can I use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! White chocolate chips will provide a sweeter contrast to the tangy cheesecake filling.
Q3: What’s the best way to shape the cookies?
Use slightly damp hands to prevent the dough from sticking and ensure a smooth, even shape.
Q4: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Ensure the edges of the dough are sealed tightly around the cheesecake filling. Pinch and smooth any gaps before baking.
Q5: Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before assembling.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie we all know and love. They’re indulgent, impressive, and perfect for sharing with family and friends—or keeping all to yourself! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something extraordinary, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy every gooey, creamy, chocolatey bite!
Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to handle.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of the dough.
- Take another smaller scoop of cookie dough, flatten it, and place it over the filling. Seal the edges of the dough together, ensuring the cheesecake filling is completely enclosed.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling. Place the assembled cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature for the ultimate indulgence.
Notes
- Firm Filling: Chilling the cheesecake filling ensures it doesn’t ooze out while assembling the cookies.
- Don’t Overfill: Use just enough cheesecake filling to avoid the cookies splitting during baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened butter and cream cheese to ensure a smooth cookie dough and filling.
- Bake in Batches: If your dough feels too soft while assembling, refrigerate it briefly before continuing.
