Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies Recipe – 5 Expert Baking Tips

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Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies Recipe is the perfect combination of chewy chocolate chip cookies and creamy cheesecake filling in one indulgent dessert. If you love soft, thick cookies with a sweet surprise in the center, this recipe is a must-try.

Each bite is a perfect balance of buttery cookie dough, melty chocolate chips, and a tangy cheesecake core that stays soft even after baking. Whether you serve them warm or chilled, these stuffed cookies will satisfy every cookie and cheesecake lover’s cravings.

This recipe is easy to make, freezer-friendly, and perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or weekend baking adventures. Ready to take your cookie game to the next level? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Chewy – These cookies have the perfect texture with crispy edges and a gooey center.
Surprise Cheesecake Filling – The creamy, tangy cheesecake center takes chocolate chip cookies to the next level.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for birthdays, holidays, or just because you need a sweet treat.
Make-Ahead Friendly – The cookie dough can be made in advance and frozen for later.
Customizable – Try different mix-ins like white chocolate chips or crushed Oreos for a fun twist!

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling:

Cream Cheese (Softened) – Creates a smooth, creamy filling.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake without making it grainy.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, sweet depth of flavor.

For the Cookie Dough:

Unsalted Butter (Softened) – Gives the cookies richness and softness.
Brown Sugar (Firmly Packed) – Adds moisture and a deep, caramelized flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Helps create that perfect crispy edge.
Eggs (Room Temperature Preferred) – Binds the dough and adds structure.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cookie dough for the perfect texture.
Cornstarch – Keeps the cookies soft and chewy.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Help the cookies rise and create the perfect chewiness.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Melt into the dough for a gooey chocolate experience.
Mini Chocolate Chips (or extra regular chips) – Add more chocolate in every bite.

📌 Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

Drop the cheesecake mixture onto a wax paper-lined baking sheet in tablespoon-sized scoops. Transfer to the freezer to chill while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and fluffy.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until fully combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips and mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Stuff the Cookies

Scoop about 3 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll it into a ball.

Press your thumb into the center to create a crater. Take a scoop of the frozen cheesecake filling and gently press it into the indentation.

Wrap the cookie dough around the cheesecake, sealing it completely so no filling is visible. Ensure there are no cracks!

Step 4: Chill the Cookie Dough

Place the stuffed cookie dough balls on a wax paper-lined plate and freeze for 15 minutes. This helps them keep their shape and prevents spreading.

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Once chilled, place the cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 2.5 inches apart.

Bake for 12-13 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. The cheesecake filling sets as they cool, making them even more delicious!

Pro Tips for Making the Best Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

✔️ Chill the Cheesecake Filling – Freezing the filling makes it easier to stuff inside the dough without melting.

✔️ Don’t Overmix the Dough – Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.

✔️ Seal the Dough Tightly – Make sure no cheesecake filling is visible before baking to prevent leaking.

✔️ Use a Cookie Scoop – This ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

✔️ Chill the Dough Before Baking – Freezing the dough for 15 minutes prevents spreading and keeps the cookies thick.

✔️ Serve Warm or Cold – These cookies are amazing warm, but if you love cheesecake, try them chilled for a different experience!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

Storing Leftovers

Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
If you prefer them warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Freezing Unbaked Cookie Dough

Assemble the stuffed cookie dough balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake, bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the bake time.

Freezing Baked Cookies

Let cookies cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though these Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies are fairly simple to make, a few small mistakes can impact the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Not Chilling the Cheesecake Filling

Skipping the step of freezing the cheesecake mixture will make it difficult to stuff the cookies properly. The filling will be too soft and can blend into the dough rather than creating a distinct, creamy center.

Fix: Always freeze the cheesecake filling for at least 30 minutes before assembling the cookies.

2. Overmixing the Dough

Overworking the cookie dough can lead to tough, dense cookies instead of soft, chewy ones.

Fix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Once the flour disappears, stop mixing.

3. Using Warm Cookie Dough

If the dough is too warm when baking, the cookies will spread too much and lose their thick, stuffed shape.

Fix: Freeze the assembled cookie dough balls for at least 15 minutes before baking to help them keep their structure.

4. Not Completely Sealing the Cheesecake Filling

If any part of the cheesecake filling is exposed before baking, it can leak out, leaving an empty pocket inside the cookie instead of a creamy surprise.

Fix: Gently press and roll the dough around the cheesecake filling, making sure it is completely sealed before baking.

5. Overbaking the Cookies

These cookies continue baking on the hot cookie sheet after being removed from the oven. Overbaking will dry them out and can cause the filling to harden.

Fix: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are golden brown, but the centers still look slightly underbaked. Let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Try using dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even caramel chips for a fun twist.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

Yes! Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much and keeps the cheesecake filling inside.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

How do I keep my cheesecake filling from leaking?

Make sure the dough completely covers the filling with no cracks or openings. If needed, pinch the edges together and add a little extra dough to seal.

Conclusion

These Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies are the ultimate indulgent treat, combining the best of cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies into one irresistible dessert. With their soft, chewy exterior and creamy, tangy center, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you enjoy them warm, chilled, or straight from the freezer, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Try them out, share with friends and family, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cookie recipe.