As I sat sipping a warm mug of spiced apple cider on a crisp autumn afternoon, inspiration struck. The comforting blend of flavors made me long for a new twist on dessert—something that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Enter my Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies! Not only are these cookies a delightful crowd-pleaser, but they also provide a fun and unexpected surprise with a creamy cheesecake center. The best part? They’re impressively easy to whip up, perfect for anyone looking to treat friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re eager to elevate your baking game this season, let’s dive into these irresistible cookies that blend two classic favorites into one delicious treat. Are you ready to embark on this flavorful journey with me?
Why Will You Adore These Cookies?
Unforgettable Flavor: The blend of apple cider and warm spices creates a truly unique taste that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
Surprise Inside: Each cookie hides a creamy cheesecake center, adding an unexpected twist to your classic treat.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress friends and family. If you're craving more easy desserts, check out our Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe.
Perfect for Gatherings: These cookies make an excellent addition to any fall gathering, sure to spark joy and compliments.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm out of the oven or as a delightful accompaniment to your afternoon coffee, making them a go-to all season long!
Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• 2 cups (480 ml) apple cider – brings a rich, spiced flavor that defines these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.
• ¾ cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened – crucial for a tender and flavorful cookie texture.
• ¾ cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed – adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
• 3 tablespoon (38 g) granulated white sugar – balances the sweetness and enhances browning.
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature – enriches the dough for a rich, full taste.
• 2 teaspoon vanilla – infuses a warm aroma that elevates the cookie’s flavor profile.
• 1 ¾ cups (218 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled – gives structure and support to the otherwise soft cookie.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – helps the cookies rise slightly, ensuring they stay fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – aids in browning and adds a nice spread to each cookie.
• ½ teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 2 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – brings warmth and a hint of spice reflective of fall.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apple cider.
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice – deepens the spice profile, giving it that cozy feel.
For the Cheesecake Center
• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold – gives that rich, creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the dough.
• 2 tablespoon (30 ml) apple cider reduction from above – intensifies the apple flavor in the creamy filling.
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated white sugar – sweetens the cheesecake, ensuring a delightful contrast to the cookie.
For the Topping
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated white sugar – for the final sweet dusting that enhances the cookie’s look and taste.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon – reaffirms that warm spice element with each bite.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg – complements the topping and brings a hint of festive flavor.
• Pinch ground allspice – finishes the topping with a touch of comforting spice.
• 1-2 tablespoon (14-28 g) salted butter, melted – helps the spiced sugar adhere nicely to the cookies for that perfect finish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally and let it reduce to about 2 tablespoons, which will take approximately 25-38 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, watch closely until it reaches the right consistency, and then set it aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Center
Line a small cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, beat together the cold cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scoop this mixture into 16 portions of 2 teaspoons each and place them in the freezer until firm, usually about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat and Line Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the cookie dough. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy release of the cookies once baked. This setup is key, as you'll be baking the Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies in batches, so make sure your workspace is ready.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon each of ground nutmeg, ground allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they're evenly mixed, creating a warm spice blend that complements the apple cider perfectly.
Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the soft texture needed in your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, so make sure to whip it thoroughly.
Step 6: Incorporate Egg Yolks and Cider
Add 2 room-temperature egg yolks, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix everything together until the batter looks pale and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This will infuse your cookie dough with rich flavor.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as a tender dough is crucial for the delightful texture of your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.
Step 8: Chill the Cookie Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for 15-20 minutes. This step helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle when you scoop and shape your cookies later on.
Step 9: Shape the Cookies
Using a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the chilled dough into 16 portions. Flatten each portion slightly and place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center before enclosing it with the dough. Roll the cookie dough back into a ball, ensuring the cheesecake is completely sealed inside.
Step 10: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the prepared cookie dough balls onto the lined baking sheets, making sure to space them out. Bake 6 cookies at a time for approximately 11-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they should remain soft in the center for that perfect chewy bite.
Step 11: Shape and Cool
After baking, use a large round cookie cutter to gently reshape the cookies while they are still warm, if desired. Let the Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 12: Add the Spiced Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of ground allspice. Once the cookies are cooled, brush the tops with melted salted butter and sprinkle generously with the spiced sugar mixture, adding a delightful finishing touch to each cookie.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful, perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving to get back that delightful texture.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply shape the cookie dough around the cheesecake filling and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This revives their freshness and brings back that melty cheesecake surprise inside!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheesecake centers up to 3 days in advance by mixing together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, then freezing them in portions until firm. Additionally, the cookie dough can be made up to 24 hours ahead; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough, wrap around the frozen cheesecake centers, and bake as instructed for freshly baked cookies that taste just as delicious. Prepare ahead for busy weeknights and enjoy warm, comforting treats with minimal effort!
Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies and customize them to suit your taste preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.
- Vegan: Replace cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use flax eggs or applesauce instead of egg yolks for a plant-based twist. Just keep in mind, the texture might differ slightly, but the flavor will still shine!
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture and a flavor boost that pairs beautifully with apple cider.
- Chocolate Chip: Stir in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent chocolatey surprise within your cookies, delighting any chocolate lover in your family!
- Spice it Up: Increase the ground spices by adding an extra ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a bolder, spicier flavor that truly captures the essence of fall.
- Sweet and Salty: Drizzle melted caramel over the cooled cookies for a sweet contrast, or sprinkle sea salt on top to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
- Dried Fruits: Incorporate ½ cup of dried fruits like cranberries or raisins into the dough for that chewy texture and additional fruity notes, adding variety to each bite.
- Pumpkin Twist: For a seasonal twist, replace ¼ cup of the flour with canned pumpkin puree, embracing another autumn flavor while keeping moisture intact!
With so many exciting options, you can mix and match to create your own signature version of these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies. For more fun, try pairing them with Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe for a delightful dessert spread!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring flour and sugar to ensure consistency in your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading during baking, allowing for a perfect shape and texture.
Tempering the Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature before blending, making it easier to achieve a smooth, airy cheesecake filling.
Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so check the cookies at around 10 minutes. They should be lightly golden on the edges while remaining soft in the center.
Sealing the Filling: Make sure the cookie dough fully encases the cheesecake center to prevent it from leaking during baking, ensuring every bite is a surprise!
What to Serve with Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies?
Elevate your cozy gatherings with delightful accompaniments that enhance the warmth of these rich cookies.
-
Spiced Coffee: The subtle warmth of spiced coffee complements the autumn flavors perfectly, making each sip a comforting experience.
-
Pumpkin Soup: This creamy and slightly sweet soup brings a savory balance to the sweetness of the cookies, adding depth to your meal.
-
Fresh Apple Slices: Crisp, juicy apple slices enhance the apple cider essence and introduce a refreshing crunch alongside the rich cookies.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast and balances the spices, creating a delightful dessert duo.
-
Maple Pecan Salad: The nutty crunch and maple dressing in this salad provide a lovely contrast to the sweet and soft cookies for a complete meal.
-
Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety hot chocolate makes for a cozy pairing, and the chocolatey notes beautifully meld with the spices of the cookies.
-
Mulled Wine: This spiced wine is a festive choice that perfectly echoes the warmth of the cookies and enhances your gathering's atmosphere.
-
Cheese Platter: Incorporate creamy cheeses like Brie or tangy goat cheese for a savory contrast, creating a well-rounded flavor experience.
Each of these pairings brings something unique to your table, making your taste buds dance while celebrating the essence of fall!
Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of apple cider should I use?
Absolutely! Use high-quality, fresh apple cider for the best flavor. Look for unfiltered cider without added sugars or preservatives; organic options work wonderfully as they retain more natural flavors. This will help enhance the taste of your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.
How should I store my cookies after baking?
To keep your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve them for longer, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for that perfect chewy texture before serving!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Freezing is a great option! To freeze, shape the cookie dough around the cheesecake filling into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. The dough can be kept for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, but add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time for a delightful treat anytime!
What should I do if the cheesecake filling leaks during baking?
If you notice leaks, it may be a sign that the cheesecake center wasn’t fully encased by the cookie dough. For the next batch, ensure each frozen cheesecake ball is well covered by the dough when rolled back into shape. Gently press the dough around the filling to seal it properly. A little extra care goes a long way in creating perfectly enclosed Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies every time!
Are these cookies safe for my pets?
While Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are delicious for humans, they contain ingredients like sugar and butter that are best avoided by pets. Specifically, the cinnamon should be consumed with caution. Always keep baked goods out of reach from your furry friends to ensure their safety!
Delightful Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies for Cozy Evenings
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- cookie sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop
- parchment paper
- Oven
- freezer
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups apple cider brings a rich, spiced flavor
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened for best texture
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed for moisture and caramel flavor
- 3 tablespoon granulated white sugar balances sweetness and enhances browning
- 2 large egg yolks at room temperature for rich flavor
- 2 teaspoon vanilla to enhance flavor profile
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled for accuracy
- ½ teaspoon baking powder helps cookies rise
- ½ teaspoon baking soda aids in browning
- ½ teaspoon salt enhances flavors and balances sweetness
- 2 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon adds warmth and spiciness
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg for nutty flavor
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice provides cozy feel
For the Cheesecake Center
- 6 oz cream cheese cold for easy blending
- 2 tablespoon apple cider reduction intensifies apple flavor
- ¼ cup granulated white sugar sweetens cheesecake filling
For the Topping
- ¼ cup granulated white sugar for dusting
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon warm spice element
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg complements the topping
- pinch ground allspice for finishing touch
- 1-2 tablespoon salted butter melted to adhere topping
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce to about 2 tablespoons, about 25-38 minutes, then let it cool.
- Line a small cookie sheet with parchment paper. Beat together cold cream cheese, 3 tablespoon granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scoop into 16 portions and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine 1 ¾ cups flour, 2 ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl; whisk until mixed.
- Cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and ¼ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add 2 egg yolks, 2 teaspoon vanilla, and cooled cider reduction to butter-sugar mixture; mix until pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for 15-20 minutes.
- Scoop dough into 16 portions. Flatten each, place a cheesecake ball in the center, and encase completely.
- Transfer dough balls onto lined sheets and bake for 11-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Let cookies cool on the sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Mix ¼ cup sugar, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of allspice. Brush cooled cookies with melted butter and sprinkle with spiced sugar.
Leave a Reply