Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined plate.
- Freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. This makes stuffing the cookies easier.
Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes if it feels too soft.
Assemble the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
- Place one frozen cheesecake filling portion in the center.
- Wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it completely, and roll gently into a ball.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll each dough ball generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Bake
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm for a gooey cheesecake center, or at room temperature for a firmer texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- These cookies can also be frozen after baking and reheated briefly before serving.
Optional Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for extra warmth.
- Drizzle cooled cookies with a light vanilla glaze for a dessert-style finish.
- Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the dough for a deeper flavor.
Perfectly soft, creamy, and coated in cinnamon sugar, these Cheesecake Stuffed Churro Cookies are guaranteed to impress.