Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
There’s something truly magical about the combination of chocolate chips and cheesecake in cookie form. These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that simply melts in your mouth. Light, simple, and utterly delicious, they have quickly become my favorite cookie recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are perfect for any time of the day, whether it’s breakfast with a glass of milk, a mid-afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee, or whenever you’re craving something sweet. They’re not overly sweet, making them a hit for those who prefer a more balanced treat. Plus, they’re easy to customize, allowing you to experiment with different add-ins like pecans, M&M candies, or even Oreo cookies. Double the batch, and you’ll have a variety of cookies to enjoy for days!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Cookie sheet
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the mixture and continue mixing until no lumps remain. The texture should be smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and the egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture, a little at a time, then add the baking soda and salt. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Turn off the mixer and gently fold in the chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto a cookie sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 9-11 minutes. I find that 10 minutes is perfect.
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in a plastic bag or container in the fridge to prevent spoilage, as they contain cream cheese.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing to achieve a smooth dough.
- Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent the cookies from overbaking and becoming dry.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to switch up the add-ins for these cookies. Try chopped nuts, candy pieces, or even dried fruits for a unique twist. You can also make multiple batches with different variations for a delightful mix of flavors.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While specific nutritional information will vary based on the size of the cookies and any additional ingredients, each serving is generally rich in flavor and provides a sweet treat that’s hard to resist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the texture. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best results.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent spoilage.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough balls and bake them straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that you and your family will love. They’re easy to make, deliciously soft, and perfect for sharing. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!