Description
These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are a decadent fusion of rich cheesecake filling nestled in soft cookie dough, finished with a sweet caramel drizzle. The contrast between the buttery cookie base, creamy center, and sticky caramel topping makes each bite a delightful indulgence. A sprinkle of sea salt elevates the flavors with a touch of sophistication.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg yolk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
For the Cheesecake Filling
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg white
For the Caramel Drizzle
1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Optional
Flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, beating until well incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the egg white and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and consistent.
Step 4: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Use your thumb or a spoon to make a small well in the center of each. Fill each indentation with about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake mixture.
Step 5: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookie edges are golden and the centers are just set. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet to firm up.
Step 6: Once cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce over each cookie. Add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired.
Notes
For a deeper caramel flavor, try using a homemade salted caramel sauce. These cookies store well in the refrigerator and taste even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.