Keyword: Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, Cheesecake, cookies, desserts, fall treats, Homemade Cookies
Prep Time: 45 minutesminutes
Cook Time: 12 minutesminutes
Chill Time: 20 minutesminutes
Total Time: 1 hourhour17 minutesminutes
Servings: 16cookies
Calories: 150kcal
Equipment
medium saucepan
Mixing bowls
hand mixer
Parchment Paper
cookie scoop
Baking sheets
wire rack
Ingredients
For the Apple Cider Reduction
2cupsapple ciderThis is the star ingredient that gives our cookies a warm, autumn flavor.
For the Cheesecake Filling
6ouncescream cheeseMake sure it’s cold for easier mixing and fluffiness.
3tablespoonsgranulated white sugarSweetens the filling perfectly.
½teaspoonvanillaAdds a lovely aroma and taste to the cheesecake.
For the Cookie Dough
1 ¾cupsall-purpose flourBe sure to spoon and level for accurate measurement.
2 ½teaspoonsground cinnamonThis spice creates a cozy, fall flavor in each bite.
½teaspoonground nutmegJust a hint enhances the overall taste beautifully.
¼teaspoonground allspiceProvides a warm spiciness that pairs well with apple.
½teaspoonbaking powderHelps the cookies rise for that soft texture.
½teaspoonbaking sodaWorks with the baking powder for perfect cookie fluffiness.
½teaspoonsaltA little balance to bring out all the flavors.
¾cupunsalted butterSoftened to room temperature for easy mixing and creaminess.
¾cuplight brown sugarAdds moisture and a deeper flavor.
¼cupgranulated white sugarUsed again to ensure the dough is sweet.
2teaspoonsvanillaA repeat star ingredient that harmonizes all flavors.
apple cider reductionapple cider reductionA small dose intensifies the apple flavor in the dough.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
¼cupgranulated white sugarSprinkling on top gives a sweet crunch to the cookies.
¼teaspoonground cinnamonAmplifies the warm flavor profile.
⅛teaspoonground nutmegComplements the sugar and spice mix.
pinchground allspiceJust a pinch adds warmth and depth.
1-2tablespoonssalted butterMelted for brushing onto cookies before they’re coated in the spiced sugar.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction: Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat. Allow the cider to gently simmer until it reduces to just 2 tablespoons, taking about 25-38 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine 6 ounces of cold cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of granulated white sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes, then scoop into 16 small portions and freeze.
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground allspice, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of packed light brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated white sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Incorporate Liquid Ingredients: Add 2 egg yolks, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed for 3-5 minutes.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 15-20 minutes.
Shape the Cookie Dough: Scoop the chilled dough into 16 portions using a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop. Flatten each dough ball, place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center, and wrap the dough around it before rolling it into a ball.
Bake the Cookies: Arrange the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 11-12 minutes, or until lightly golden and puffy.
Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Add the Spiced Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground allspice. Brush the tops with melted salted butter and sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture over them.
Notes
Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes for best texture. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.