Cheesecake Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Cheesecake Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: classic chocolate chip cookies and rich cheesecake. Each cookie features a soft and chewy exterior with a creamy cheesecake filling at its core, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for special occasions or a sweet treat anytime, these cookies are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar or additional coconut sugar

• 2/3 cup chocolate chips

• 3 tablespoons butter or vegan butter

• 1½ tablespoons water

• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• ¼ cup cream cheese or vegan cream cheese

• 1½ tablespoons powdered sugar or erythritol

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

   • Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easier mixing.

   • In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined.

   • Set the filling aside.

2. Make the Cookie Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.

   • Add the chocolate chips and mix well.

   • Stir in the butter, water, and vanilla extract (if using) until a dough forms.

   • Note: The dough may appear dry initially, but continue mixing until it comes together.

3. Assemble the Cookies:

   • Divide the cookie dough into small portions and flatten each piece.

   • Place a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of each dough portion.

   • Enclose the filling by folding the dough around it and rolling into a ball.
     
     

4. Chill the Dough:

   • For softer cookies, refrigerate the dough balls until cold to the touch.

   • Alternatively, skip this step for crispier cookies.

5. Bake the Cookies:

   • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

   • Place the dough balls on a nonstick cookie sheet, ensuring space between each.

   • Bake for 18 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden.

   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: Approximately 160 kcal

• Total Fat: 9 g

  • Saturated Fat: 4 g

• Cholesterol: 15 mg

• Sodium: 95 mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 20 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 1 g

  • Sugars: 12 g

• Protein: 2 g