Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies combine the rich, creamy taste of cheesecake with the chewy texture of cookies, and the sweetness of caramel makes them even more indulgent! Here’s how to make them:

Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup caramel bits (or caramel chips)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (for drizzling or making the glaze)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for the glaze)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for the glaze)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

4. Add Sugars and Egg:

   • Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and egg to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined, and add the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Fold in the Caramel and White Chocolate Chips:

   • Gently fold in the caramel bits (or chips) and white chocolate chips (if using) into the dough.

7. Scoop and Bake:

   • Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.

8. Make the Caramel Glaze (optional but delicious!):

   • While the cookies are cooling, make the caramel drizzle. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream.
   • Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the caramel thickens.
   • Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before drizzling over the cookies.

9. Cool and Serve:

   • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, drizzle the caramel glaze over the cookies and allow it to set before serving.

These Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are irresistibly delicious with a soft, chewy texture and the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake flavor and sweet caramel goodness. Perfect for any occasion! Enjoy! 🍪🍯