Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies: Soft, Creamy, and Irresistibly Sweet
A dreamy fusion of cheesecake and chocolate chip cookie—these pillowy bites are rich, tender, and perfect for sharing
Introduction: The Best of Both Worlds
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies combine the tangy richness of cheesecake with the nostalgic comfort of chocolate chip cookies. The cream cheese makes the dough extra soft and tender, while powdered sugar gives them a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Mini chocolate chips add just the right amount of sweetness and indulgence.
Whether you’re baking for a party, prepping for a cookie exchange, or just craving something cozy and unique, these cookies are easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes these cookies so soft, creamy, and flavorful:
Dry Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour (1¼ cups)
Provides structure and a soft crumb. - Cornstarch (¼ cup)
Adds tenderness and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth texture. - Baking powder (½ tsp)
Gives a gentle lift and lightness.
Tip: Sift dry ingredients for extra fluffiness.
Creamy Base:
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, softened)
Adds richness and flavor. - Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
Adds tang and a creamy texture—key to the cheesecake vibe.
Optional: Use full-fat cream cheese for best results.
Wet Ingredients:
- Egg (1 large)
Binds the dough and adds moisture. - Milk (1 tbsp)
Helps loosen the dough and adds softness. - Vanilla extract (½ tsp)
Adds warmth and depth.
Optional: Add almond extract for a nutty twist.
Sweetness:
- Powdered sugar (1¼ cups)
Sweetens and creates a smooth, tender texture.
Tip: Don’t substitute with granulated sugar—it changes the texture.
Add-Ins:
- Mini chocolate chips (5–6 tbsp)
Add melty pockets of sweetness.
Optional: Use dark chocolate or mix with white chocolate chips.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Mix
In a medium bowl:
- Whisk together flour, cornstarch, and baking powder.
Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl:
- Beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Tip: Use a hand or stand mixer for best results.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in:
- Egg
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
Beat until well combined.
Step 4: Add Sugar
Gradually add powdered sugar.
Mix until light and fluffy.
Optional: Chill mixture for 10 minutes before adding dry ingredients.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Gently fold in dry ingredients until fully incorporated.
Stir in mini chocolate chips.
Chill dough for 1 hour to firm up.
Tip: Chilling helps prevent spreading and improves texture.
Step 6: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Scoop dough into 24–26 balls.
Place on baking sheets 1.5 inches apart.
Slightly flatten each ball.
Optional: Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top for visual appeal.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 10 minutes, until:
- Edges are set
- Tops are just starting to turn golden
Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes.
Transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Tip: Don’t overbake—cookies will continue to set as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Cookie exchanges
- Afternoon tea
- Dessert trays
- Cozy nights in
Pair with:
- Hot cocoa
- Vanilla milkshake
- Espresso
Presentation Tip: Stack on a festive plate with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Variations to Try
Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:
Strawberry Cheesecake
Add freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips.
Coconut Chocolate
Add shredded coconut and dark chocolate chips.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based butter, cream cheese, and egg substitute.
Citrus Twist
Add orange zest and swap vanilla for orange extract.
Sandwich Style
Spread cream cheese frosting between two cookies.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare dough up to 2 days in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Tip: Bake frozen dough balls straight from freezer—add 1–2 minutes to baking time.
Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 24)
- Calories: ~120
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Fat: ~6g
- Sugar: ~9g
- Sodium: ~80mg
- Fiber: ~0.5g
These cookies are:
- Kid-friendly
- Crowd-pleasing
- Comfort food approved
- Perfect for gifting
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a celebration of texture, flavor, and creativity. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or sneaking one with your morning coffee, they’re guaranteed to bring joy.