Name: Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for filling); Spiced sugar (for rolling cookies)

Why make this recipe

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats. These cookies bring together the warm spices of gingerbread with a creamy cheesecake filling, creating a perfect holiday dessert. They are easy to make and will impress your family and friends at any gathering. These cookies not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma that feels like the holiday season.

How to make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)
Spiced sugar (for rolling cookies)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until everything is combined.
In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla for the filling.
Roll the cookie dough into small balls and flatten them slightly. Place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center, then carefully wrap the dough around the filling.
Roll each cookie in spiced sugar.
Bake for 10-12 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Allow the cookies to cool before you enjoy your festive treat!

How to serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies are great on their own but can be served with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat. You can also dust them with extra spiced sugar before serving for a lovely presentation. They are perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet gift for friends and family.

How to store Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Tips to make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.
If you want a stronger flavor, add more spices or a pinch of allspice.
To save time, you can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead, then assemble and bake when ready.

variation

For a different twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough or swapping out the cream cheese filling for a pumpkin spice filling. You can adjust the spices based on your preferences to create your unique cookie flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
You can use mascarpone or another soft cheese, but cream cheese gives the best flavor and texture.

2. Can I make these cookies in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough and the filling in advance. Just keep them separately stored until you are ready to bake.

3. What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls. This helps to firm it up for easier handling.