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Cinnamon Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies Recipe

4.5 from 60 reviews

Delight in these Cinnamon Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies, a perfect fusion of tender cookie dough enveloping a creamy cheesecake filling. Rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked to golden perfection, these treats combine the best of donuts and cheesecake into a handheld delight ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Cheesecake Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Coating

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Topping

  • 1 cup caramel sauce (optional for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, indicating that air has been incorporated for a tender cookie texture.
  2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse warmth and depth of flavor.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute leavening agents and seasoning.
  4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the creamed wet mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix which can toughen the dough.
  5. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and creamy, then transfer this to a piping bag for easy application.
  6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  7. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten each. Use a large cookie cutter to cut circles from the dough pieces.
  8. Fill the Cookies: Pipe the cheesecake filling around the edges of each dough circle. Fold the edges over the filling to enclose it, press to seal securely, and cut out the center to form a donut shape with a creamy center.
  9. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Mix 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Roll each shaped cookie in this mixture to coat completely, adding a sweet and spicy crust.
  10. Bake: Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for slight expansion. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cookies are lightly golden and set.

Notes

  • For best results, chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth cheesecake filling.
  • Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving to prevent breaking the delicate donut shape.
  • Serve with caramel sauce as a drizzle for extra indulgence, but it is optional.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: cinnamon cheesecake cookies, donut cookies, baked cheesecake treats, cinnamon sugar cookies, cream cheese filled cookies