Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies are the ultimate treat for fall! They combine chewy pumpkin cookies with a creamy cheesecake filling, rolled in a delightful pumpkin spice sugar. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking for a special dessert to impress your friends, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavors and unique texture, every pumpkin lover will absolutely adore them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake and spiced pumpkin creates an unforgettable taste.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for parties, holidays, or simply enjoying at home during the fall.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy the soft and chewy consistency that makes each bite delightful.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to cater to your personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugars easier, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie batter.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

These are the best pumpkin cheesecake cookies! They are super chewy pumpkin cookies, stuffed with creamy cheesecake filling and rolled in pumpkin spice sugar. They’re the perfect fall treat and every pumpkin lover will adore them!

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
• 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s)
• 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

• In a mixing bowl, beat together the cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
• Set aside while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

• In another large bowl, cream together softened butter and light brown sugar until fluffy.
• Mix in egg yolks one at a time along with 2 teaspoons of vanilla.
• Add canned pumpkin puree and mix until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Scoop out small amounts of cookie dough and flatten them in your hand. Place about half a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center before folding the dough around it to form a ball.
• Roll each ball in a mixture of granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice before placing them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake for about 12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies warm or store them for later indulgence!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Pumpkin cheesecake cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Enjoy with Coffee

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and sweetness.

Plate with Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies alongside vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.

Accompany with Hot Chocolate

• Enjoy these cookies with a steaming mug of hot chocolate, making it a perfect fall treat.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch that complements the pumpkin flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

To make your pumpkin cheesecake cookies even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and improves the cookie’s texture.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature will create a smoother batter.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a chewy texture; overmixing can lead to dense cookies.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfectly baked cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

When serving pumpkin cheesecake cookies, consider these delightful side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm beverage packed with cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the cozy vibes of fall.

2. Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup serves as a savory counterpart to sweet cookies, creating balance on your plate.

3. Cheese Platter: Pairing with a selection of cheeses adds variety; sharp cheddar contrasts well with sweet cookies.

4. Pecan Pie: The nutty richness of pecan pie elevates the dessert experience during fall gatherings.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully, offering a hearty and healthy side option.

6. Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts bring out the autumnal flavors in the cookies while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, avoiding common mistakes ensures a delicious outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Incorrect cream cheese temperature: Using warm cream cheese can lead to a runny filling. Always use cold cream cheese for the best results.
• Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for ideal texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread too much. Allow time in the fridge for better shape.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

• Freeze individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies that might help you:

How long do Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies last?

These cookies stay fresh for about 5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies?

Yes! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer, depending on how soon you plan to eat them.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure to chill your dough before baking. This helps maintain their shape during cooking.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies?

Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel on top.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile, making them perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. With their chewy texture and creamy filling, they offer a unique twist on classic pumpkin flavors. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make them your own!