Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this aside as your dry mix.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, stirring until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in 3/4 cup of graham cracker crumbs for that extra flavor and texture.
- Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, flattening each scoop slightly to ensure even baking.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. Allow them to cool completely.
- For the cheesecake filling, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and remaining vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cheesecake filling generously over each cooled cookie.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle the tops with graham cracker crumbs for a decorative touch.
- Chill the cookies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for the perfect texture.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are best served chilled, allowing the filling to set and the flavors to meld beautifully. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience or serving them alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a wonderful addition to dessert platters at parties—just be ready for everyone to ask for the recipe!
How to store
To keep your Caramel Cheesecake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’re preparing them in advance, it’s best to fill them with the cheesecake mixture closer to serving time to maintain the best texture. Although these cookies can be frozen, it’s best to freeze them without the cheesecake filling. Simply thaw and fill before serving.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy filling.
- You can make the caramel sauce from scratch or use store-bought for convenience.
- To ensure the cookies remain chewy, avoid overbaking them and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different flavors to create unique variations of these cookies. Consider adding chocolate chips to the dough for a rich chocolaty flavor or even using flavored cream cheese (like berry or pumpkin) in the filling. For a fun twist, you could incorporate spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice during the holidays.
Common questions
What is the prep time for these cookies?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, followed by baking and cooling time.
Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
For a lighter option, you could use mascarpone cheese, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Is it necessary to chill the cookies before serving?
Chilling helps the filling set and enhances the overall texture, so it’s highly recommended for the best experience.
