Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies
Delightfully soft, spiced cookies with a hidden layer of creamy cheesecake make for the perfect autumn treat, combining the best of both worlds for a cozy indulgence.
Ingredients
For the cheesecake filling
- 8 oz cream cheese Make sure it's at room temperature for a smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar To sweeten the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds depth of flavor.
For the cookie dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure to the cookie.
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice Infuses warm flavors.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda Helps cookies rise.
- 1/4 tsp salt Enhances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Melted for rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar Contributes moisture and flavor.
- 1 large egg yolk Binds the ingredients.
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree Adds moisture and pumpkin flavor.
- 1/4 cup spiced sugar Used to coat cookie balls.
Instructions
Preparation
- Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a small mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Scoop into dollops and freeze for about 20 minutes until firm.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Mix in the egg yolk, vanilla, and pumpkin puree.
- Fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until well combined.
- Create nine cookie dough balls and flatten each one. Place a frozen cheesecake filling dollop in the center, fold the dough over, and roll into a smooth ball.
- In a small bowl, mix the spiced sugar and roll each cookie ball in this mixture.
- Place the cookie balls onto the prepared sheets and bake for 11-12 minutes until the edges are set.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Make sure to chill the cheesecake filling to help maintain its shape and prevent melting. Enjoy the cookies fresh for the best texture.