Churro Cheesecake Cookies: A Delectable Fusion Treat

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cookie dough.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Use a cookie scoop to portion out the cookie dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each).
7. Flatten each cookie dough portion slightly in your palm, add a teaspoon of the chilled cheesecake filling in the center, and then encase it by gently folding the dough around it. Roll it back into a ball.
8. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
11. While the cookies are cooling, in a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon.
12. Brush the warm cookies with melted butter and then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat them evenly.
13. Enjoy your delicious churro cheesecake cookies warm or at room temperature for the best combination of flavors and textures!