Cinnamon-Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies

Indulge in these delightful cookies that blend the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm embrace of cinnamon, all in a charming donut shape. Perfect for sharing sweet moments with loved ones.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Optional Topping:

Caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off for easy filling.

Assemble the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball into a disc about 2 inches in diameter.
Pipe a small amount of the cheesecake filling into the center of the disc.
Take another 2-tablespoon portion of dough, flatten it, and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by pressing them together gently, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.

Bake the Cookies:
Place the assembled cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet.

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
In a shallow bowl, mix together 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon.
While the cookies are still warm, gently roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Optional: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce:
For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle the cooled cookies with caramel sauce before serving.

These Cinnamon-Kissed Cheesecake Donut Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of cheesecake, donuts, and cookies into one irresistible dessert. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or share them with friends and family for a sweet experience.