Imagine sinking your teeth into the perfect marriage of two irresistible treats: rich, velvety cheesecake and classic chocolate chip cookies. That’s exactly what you get with the Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe. These delightful cookies are soft, creamy, and bursting with chocolate goodness, making them a must-try for anyone who loves an indulgent twist on a familiar favorite. Each bite offers an amazing contrast of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe manages to capture exceptional flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the creamy tang from the cream cheese, the rich sweetness of brown sugar, or the melty chocolate chips that bring it all together.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Provides a creamy base and tender crumb for the dough.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and deep caramel flavor that keeps cookies soft.
- White sugar (1/4 cup): Balances sweetness and aids in spreading.
- Large egg (1): Binds ingredients while contributing to softness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for dough + 1/2 tsp for filling): Enhances overall flavor with sweet floral notes.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): The structural backbone of the cookie.
- Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Helps cookies rise and become tender.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
- Chocolate chips (1 cup): Delivers melty pockets of chocolate bliss.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): The star that makes these cookies creamy and luscious.
- Sugar for filling (2 tbsp): Sweetens the cheesecake center perfectly.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Having everything ready will make the entire baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is what sets these cookies apart, infusing them with incredible softness and richness. Set the filling aside in the fridge to chill while you prepare the dough.
Step 3: Create the Cookie Dough
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy — this usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Next, beat in the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for those warm fragrant notes. Slowly mix in the flour, baking soda, and salt until combined. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips, making sure every bite will have plenty of melty goodness.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
For each cookie, scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place about 1 teaspoon of the chilled cheesecake filling on top, then cover it with another tablespoon of cookie dough. Carefully seal the edges and roll the whole thing gently into a ball. This step is the magic that creates that melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake center surrounded by soft cookie dough.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown while the centers remain soft. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be truly irresistible.
Step 6: Cool Before Indulging
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes. This resting time helps the cookies set so you can enjoy every creamy bite without the filling spilling out. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely if you prefer a less gooey texture, or dive in while still warm for that extra indulgent experience.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies need no frills, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking can perfectly balance the sweet and creamy flavors. For a festive touch, dust lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate to impress guests with a bakery-quality finish.
Side Dishes
Serve your Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies alongside a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a hot cup of coffee or tea. The contrast of temperatures and textures will elevate the experience and satisfy any sweet tooth craving.
Creative Ways to Present
To delight friends and family, present these cookies on a beautiful platter with fresh berries or edible flowers. You can also create a fun cookie sandwich by layering two cookies with a scoop of ice cream in between for an extra-special treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain that creamy center, avoid refrigerating as it may firm up the cheesecake filling and change the texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze unbaked cookie balls by placing them on a tray in the freezer until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to accommodate.
Reheating
Warm leftover cookies briefly in the microwave for about 10 seconds to revive that luscious creamy center and soft dough. Be careful not to overheat, or the cookie may become too soft and lose its ideal texture.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While full-fat cream cheese provides the best creamy texture and flavor, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese if needed. Just keep in mind the cookies might be slightly less rich and creamy but will still be delicious.
Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, making sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for proper texture. The cookies may have a slightly different crumb but the cheesecake center will remain wonderfully creamy.
How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking out?
Make sure to chill the cheesecake filling well before assembling and seal the edges of the cookie dough around the filling tightly. Gently rolling the dough ball helps keep everything inside during baking.
Can I use white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips?
Yes! White chocolate chips pair beautifully with the tangy cheesecake center, creating a sweeter, more delicate flavor profile. Feel free to mix in your favorite type of chocolate chips for personalization.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay soft and delicious for about 3 days. For longer storage, follow freezing tips to enjoy them fresh whenever you want.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent, I can’t recommend the Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe enough. They bring together the best of both worlds in one bite, making every moment sweeter and cozier. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies will quickly become your go-to sweet treat that everyone will adore. Grab your mixing bowl and get ready for some serious baking joy!
Print
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies combine the best of both worlds—soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies with a creamy cheesecake center. Perfectly balanced with a rich yet tender dough and a sweet, tangy cheesecake filling, these cookies offer a delightful texture contrast and an indulgent flavor experience. Ideal for dessert lovers seeking a unique twist on classic chocolate chip cookies.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Cheesecake Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure even baking and easy cleanup.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill while making the cookie dough.
- Make Cookie Dough: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until the mixture is fluffy. Add the egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and beat until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly.
- Assemble Cookies: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place 1 teaspoon of the chilled cheesecake filling in the center, then cover with another small scoop of cookie dough. Carefully seal the edges, enclosing the filling completely, and roll into a smooth ball.
- Bake: Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your soft, creamy chocolate chip cheesecake cookies!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened to avoid lumps in your dough and filling.
- Do not overbake the cookies; they should be soft in the center when you take them out as they will firm up while cooling.
- You can use mini chocolate chips for a more even distribution of chocolate in each bite.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For easier handling, chill the cookie balls for 15 minutes before baking.
