Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling

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Cookie Dough

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Instructions
Step 1
Combine *cream cheese*, *powdered sugar*, *egg yolk*, and *cornstarch* until smooth. Pour the mixture into hemispherical molds and freeze until set.
Step 2
In a bowl, beat *softened butter* with *brown sugar* and *egg* until fluffy. Add *chocolate chips* and *candied cherries* (if using) and mix well.
Gradually add *flour*, *salt*, *baking powder*, and *vanilla extract*, mixing until fully combined. Form large balls of dough, placing the filling inside (join two half-spheres of filling into one ball).
Step 3
Ensure the formed cookies are sent to the freezer for at least *20 minutes*.
Preheat your oven to *180°C (350°F)*. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake for *10-15 minutes*. Allow the cookies to cool for *7-10 minutes*.
Step 4
While still soft, you may use a piping bag to fill the cookies with *jam, preserves, or fruit butter*. I prefer using cherry preserves (recipe to be found in the comments).
Step 5
If possible, let them cool completely to stabilize the cream inside. But I didn't wait and started eating right away😁. Decorate as desired, but it's not mandatory. Just go ahead and try them!
Servings
✨ Enjoy these cookies warm and gooey straight from the oven, with the cheesecake and raspberry filling melting in your mouth. Serve them on a pretty plate, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. 🍪
🎉 For a fun twist at parties, serve these cookies with a chilled glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Your guests will love the combination of warm cookies and cold, creamy ice cream! 🍦
💖 You could also package these cookies in a beautiful box as a heartfelt gift. They’re fantastic for birthdays, holidays, or just to brighten someone’s day. Add a hand-written note for an extra personal touch. 🎁
Equipment
Use a large bowl to mix your ingredients thoroughly for the best consistency.
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A hand mixer will make blending butter, sugar, and eggs effortless.
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Accurate measurements are key to baking perfection.
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These will prevent your cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
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A large, flat baking sheet ensures even baking for your cookies.
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This is crucial for setting your cheesecake centers before baking.
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Variations
🍃 Gluten-Free Variation: Substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure your other ingredients, especially the baking powder and any vanilla extract you use, are certified gluten-free.
🌱 Vegan Variation: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) instead of regular eggs. Opt for a vegan cream cheese for the filling and ensure all other ingredients, like chocolate and any added fruits, are vegan-friendly.
Faq
- What can I use if I don't have a hand mixer?
You can mix the ingredients by hand with a wooden spoon or a whisk, although it may take a bit more effort to get a smooth consistency.
- Why do my cookies spread too much?
Ensure your butter isn't too warm when you start, and remember to chill the cookie dough before baking to help them hold their shape.
- Can I use a different type of filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheesecake flavors or add your favorite jam instead of raspberry for a new twist.
- How do I know when the cookies are done?
Bake them until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft. They will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven.
- Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough balls with the filling, and bake them directly from the freezer when needed. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- How can I make the cookies thicker?
Chill the dough longer before baking and add a little more flour to the batter. Try not to overmix the dough after adding the flour to prevent spreading.