Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of red velvet cookies with a creamy cheesecake filling. This dessert is not only stunning to look at but also delicious to eat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet snack, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your cravings.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies. First, they are a unique twist on two classic desserts—red velvet cake and cheesecake. This recipe is fun to make and share with family and friends. Additionally, the combination of soft, chewy cookies and the creamy filling creates a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. Plus, they are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

How to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

Ingredients:

3/4 cup full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
2 tablespoons white sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup salted butter, room temperature
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup white sugar (for rolling the cookie dough)

Directions:

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, white sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth. Scoop out 18 portions and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until firm.
Make the Red Velvet Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and yolk, then mix in the vanilla, buttermilk, and red food coloring. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combine the dry and wet ingredients.
Assemble the Cookies: Scoop 3 tablespoons of dough, flatten it, and place a cheesecake ball in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling and roll it into a ball. Roll in sugar and place on baking sheets. Bake for 13 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before serving.

How to Serve Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

These cookies are best served warm or at room temperature. They make a wonderful dessert for parties or family gatherings. You can also enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. For an extra touch, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or serving them with a scoop of ice cream.

How to Store Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will stay good for up to three months. Just thaw them before serving!

Tips to Make Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by combining milk and a little vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.
Freeze the cheesecake balls well to prevent them from melting into the cookies while baking.

Variation

You can experiment by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even swapping red food coloring for other colors to create cookies for different occasions. You could also try different flavored extracts like almond or mint.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

2. How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch when baked. They will continue to set as they cool.

3. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for longer storage before baking.

Enjoy making and savoring your Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies!