1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
3. Assemble the Cookies
- Scoop Cookie Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out a portion of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Add Cheesecake Filling: Place a small spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center of the flattened dough. Use additional dough to encase the filling, rolling it into a ball and sealing the edges.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the stuffed dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still look slightly underbaked—that’s okay.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft and difficult to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before assembling the cookies.
- Seal the Edges: Ensure the cheesecake filling is completely encased by the cookie dough to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the best of both worlds: a gooey, creamy cheesecake center encased in a soft, chewy chocolate chip cookie. They’re perfect for a special treat, a sweet surprise for a loved one, or a delightful addition to your dessert table. Enjoy these indulgent cookies fresh from the oven or at room temperature—either way, they’re sure to be a hit! 🍪🧀🍫