Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Scoop teaspoon-sized dollops onto parchment paper and freeze for 45–60 minutes to prevent melting during baking.
- Step 2: Mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter to create a thick cinnamon paste; set aside.
- Step 3: Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Step 4: Beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Step 5: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix gently until soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
- Step 6: Fold in cinnamon paste gently, creating visible ribbons without fully blending.
- Step 7: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten slightly, place one frozen cheesecake dollop in center, and seal dough completely around it, forming a smooth ball.
- Step 8: Chill assembled cookie balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to help maintain shape during baking.
- Step 9: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange cookie balls on parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers are just set.
- Step 10: Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. For optional glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Notes
Freeze cheesecake filling to prevent leakage. Chill cookie balls before baking to avoid spreading. Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for even mixing. Cookies can be stored at room temperature up to 3 days, refrigerated up to a week, or frozen for 3 months. Warm briefly before serving for a fresh-baked texture. Optional substitutions include vegan butter and cream cheese, gluten-free flour, and alternative sugars. Customize with nutmeg, cardamom, nuts, or chocolate chips. Try maple syrup or cream cheese frosting glaze as alternatives.
