If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that combines the rich indulgence of cheesecake with the warm, nostalgic comfort of cookies, then you’re going to fall in love with this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe. These cookies have that perfect balance of soft, creamy texture thanks to cream cheese, and pockets of melty chocolate chips that make every bite irresistibly moist and flavorful. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because you need a sweet pick-me-up, these cookies promise to satisfy your cravings with their tender crumb and luscious taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is your first step toward cookie bliss. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the soft, creamy texture and that classic sweet flavor profile you’re after.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The secret to the creamy texture and slight tang that makes these cookies stand out.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies brown lightly on the edges.
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note to deepen the flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the tender crumb.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warm aromatic notes that elevate the cookie’s flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The body of the cookie; ensures structure while keeping it soft.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and creates a nice texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips: Little bursts of chocolate magic in every bite.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This sets you up perfectly for baking and prevents the cookies from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key to creating that signature soft texture in the cookies.
Step 3: Add Sugars and Beat Until Fluffy
Next, add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to your creamy mixture, beating it until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving the cookies a lovely lift and tenderness.
Step 4: Mix in Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. These ingredients add moisture and a wonderful depth of flavor you’ll notice in every bite.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning throughout your dough.
Step 6: Blend Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix as that can make the cookies tough; you want a tender, soft texture.
Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. These little gems provide bursts of melty chocolate in every mouthwatering bite.
Step 8: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges set but centers still look a bit soft.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time lets the cookies set perfectly while maintaining their creamy, soft texture.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can add a pretty and tasty touch to these cookies. You can also sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top before baking to give a slight cheesecake crust feel.
Side Dishes
Pair these soft and creamy cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. They also go wonderfully with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try sandwiching two cookies together with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting or softened buttercream. Another fun idea is to serve them with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful dessert platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to 4 days, perfect for snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating
Warm your cookies slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This will bring back their soft, creamy texture and enhance those melty chocolate chips.
FAQs
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips will work just fine, though mini chips distribute more evenly and melt nicely throughout the cookies, giving you chocolate in every bite.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
Cream cheese is key for that soft, creamy texture, but if you’re in a pinch, mascarpone can be a good substitute. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might be slightly different.
Should I chill the dough before baking?
Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes is optional but highly recommended. It prevents spreading and results in thicker, chewier cookies that highlight that creamy cheesecake flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for set edges with centers that still appear slightly soft or underbaked. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, maintaining that perfect softness.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Of course! Chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or dried fruit can add an interesting twist. Just be careful not to overload the dough, so it maintains its delicate texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to bake something that feels like a hug in cookie form, this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe is your new go-to. They’re easy to make, impossibly soft, and packed full of luscious cream cheese and chocolatey goodness. Bake a batch, share them with loved ones, or keep them all for yourself – either way, you’re in for a deliciously cozy treat that will quickly become a favorite.
Print
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies – Soft & Creamy Cookie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic comfort of chocolate chip cookies. Soft, smooth, and loaded with mini chocolate chips, they offer a delightful twist on a beloved favorite, perfect for any dessert craving.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Cream butter and cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a rich base for the cookie dough.
- Add sugars: Incorporate the granulated sugar and brown sugar into the bowl, beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy for the perfect texture.
- Mix in egg and vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined to enrich the flavor and bind the dough.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to distribute the leavening and seasoning evenly.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Carefully fold in the mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the cookie dough for bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Form cookie dough balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls, then place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.
- Bake the cookies: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers appear slightly soft, ensuring a soft, creamy texture.
- Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing them to firm up slightly without losing softness.
Notes
- For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- To enhance the cheesecake flavor, add a drop of lemon juice or a pinch of graham cracker crumbs to the dough.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
