11/21/2025
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Filling
• 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cookie Dough
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Optional: 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar for rolling
Caramel Topping
• ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Tip: If using homemade caramel, be sure it’s fully cooled so it doesn’t melt the cookies too quickly.
Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
1 In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
2 Beat until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
3 Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined plate (18–20 pieces).
4 Freeze for 20–30 minutes to help the filling hold its shape during baking.
Step 2 — Make the Cookie Dough
1 Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
2 In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, 2–3 minutes.
3 Add the egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix well.
4 Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.�Do not overmix.
Step 3 — Fill and Form Cookies
1 Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten into a disc.
2 Place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center.
3 Wrap dough around the filling and roll into a sealed ball.
4 Roll in granulated sugar (optional).
5 Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment, spaced apart.
Step 4 — Bake
• Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
• Bake Time: 12–14 minutes
Bake until the edges are lightly golden and cracks appear on top. The centers will still look soft — that’s ideal.
Step 5 — Caramel Drizzle
Let cookies cool 10 minutes before drizzling generously with caramel sauce.
For added visual and flavor appeal:
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top
• Warm the caramel slightly for a glossy finish
Tips for Success
• Freeze the filling to keep it from leaking during baking
• Seal each dough ball fully — cracks are fine, holes are not
• Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft and creamy
• Allow to cool before lifting; the cookies are delicate when hot.