Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Medium
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies
If you love indulgent desserts that impress, then Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies will steal the show! These cookies blend the rich, velvety taste of red velvet with the creamy goodness of cheesecake filling. Each bite reveals a soft, chewy cookie wrapped around a luscious cheesecake center, offering a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Ideal for special occasions or just a treat to enjoy at home, these cookies will make your taste buds dance with joy!
How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Step 2: Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in soft cookies.
Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your butter and sugar mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies tough.
Step 4: Adding Color and Cheesecake Filling
Stir in the red food coloring until the cookie dough has an even, vibrant hue. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth to create the cheesecake filling.
Step 5: Forming the Cookies
Take a small amount of cookie dough, flatten it in your palm, then place a spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center. Carefully enclose the filling with more dough and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling is used.
Step 6: Baking
Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies
Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or even as a sweet surprise in lunch boxes. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience.
How to Store Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating the cookies, where they will last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies
- Soften Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing, resulting in a smooth filling.
- Color Consistency: Adjust the amount of red food coloring based on your preference for color. Start with one tablespoon and add more if desired.
- Even Sizes: Use a cookie scoop for uniformity in size, ensuring even baking.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to work with, refrigerate it for about 20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; they should look slightly underbaked in the center to ensure they remain soft.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate Chip Red Velvet: Mix in chocolate chips for an added layer of chocolate flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.
- Cheesecake Variations: Try flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or chocolate, to switch things up!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use any type of food coloring?
Yes, while red food coloring gives the classic red velvet look, you can use other colors for fun variations — just remember that gel colors provide a more intense hue.
2. Why did my cookies spread too much?
This can happen if your butter is too warm or if the dough was not chilled. Ensure the butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough before baking if necessary.
3. Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just scoop and freeze the cookie balls, and bake straight from the freezer.
4. How can I tell when my cookies are done?
The edges should be set, and the tops should look slightly puffy. They will continue baking on the baking sheet as they cool.
5. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone cheese for a lighter filling or use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies are not just a treat; they are an experience! The unique combination of flavors and textures makes them irresistibly decadent. They’re perfect for any occasion, and with the above tips, you’ll be able to whip up a batch that will impress your friends and family. Don’t wait any longer—get baking, and treat yourself to these delicious cookies!
