Description
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a perfect fusion of two iconic desserts: cheesecake and cookies. This cookie recipe takes the classic cookie dough and transforms it into a soft, chewy, and slightly tangy treat by incorporating cream cheese. The star ingredient is the caramel filling tucked inside, making each bite a sweet surprise. The sea salt sprinkled on top gives the cookies an irresistible balance of sweet and salty.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
For the Caramel Filling:
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
4. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of caramel sauce in the center, then fold the dough over to seal it and roll it into a ball.
- Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will continue to set as they cool.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Add Finishing Touches:
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Notes
These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, creamy, and gooey goodness. With a rich cheesecake center and a sweet caramel drizzle, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Great for holidays, bake sales, or cozy nights in—don’t forget to make extra, because they vanish fast!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramel Cheesecake Cookies