Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion! Combining the flavors of chewy apple cider cookies with a creamy cheesecake filling, they are brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with spiced sugar. Perfect for fall gatherings, these cookies will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Their unique taste and texture make them a standout dessert that every apple cider lover will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and apple cider brings a warm, comforting flavor that captures the essence of fall.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a holiday gathering, tea party, or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
• Cheesecake Filling: The creamy cheesecake center adds an indulgent twist that takes your cookie experience to the next level.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices or add nuts for a personal touch!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to gather the right tools. Having the necessary equipment on hand will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes whipping cream cheese and butter quick and easy, ensuring a smooth filling without lumps.
• Mixing bowls: Using several bowls helps keep ingredients organized during preparation, making it easier to follow the recipe steps.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 cups (480 ml) apple cider
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1 3/4 cups (218 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Cream Cheese Filling

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

For Spiced Sugar Topping

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• pinch ground allspice
• 1-2 tbsp (14-28 g) salted butter, melted

How to Make Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by reducing 2 cups of apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it reduces down to about 1 cup. This will concentrate the flavor. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine cold cream cheese with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla.
2. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Refrigerate until needed.

Step 3: Mix Cookie Dough

In another mixing bowl:
1. Cream together softened butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until fluffy.
2. Add egg yolks one at a time followed by 2 teaspoons of vanilla.
3. Slowly mix in reduced apple cider.

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground allspice.
2. Gradually add dry ingredients into wet mixture until combined.

Step 4: Assemble Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop dough portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Make an indentation in each dough ball and fill with cream cheese mixture.
4. Cover with more dough to seal.

Step 5: Bake & Finish

Bake for about 11 minutes or until lightly golden around edges. While still warm:
1. Brush cookies with melted salted butter.
2. Sprinkle generously with spiced sugar topping.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

These delicious apple cider cheesecake cookies can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance the experience of these chewy treats.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Apple Cider: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a cozy fall treat.
• Coffee or Latte: Enjoy them alongside your favorite coffee or latte to balance the sweetness.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Board: Arrange the cookies on a cheese board with assorted cheeses and fruits for a sweet and savory combination.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich filled with your favorite flavor of ice cream.

For Special Occasions

• Holiday Parties: Serve these cookies at holiday gatherings as a festive dessert option that everyone will love.
• Gift Boxes: Package them in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and family during the fall season.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

To achieve the best results, consider these tips for making outstanding apple cider cheesecake cookies.

• Use Cold Cream Cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese ensures that it mixes smoothly into the batter without becoming too runny.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center when done.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Enhance your dessert experience by pairing these apple cider cheesecake cookies with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds creaminess and balances out the spiced flavors of the cookie.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each cookie for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
3. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can complement these cookies perfectly, adding a fluffy texture.
4. Candied Pecans: Crunchy candied pecans provide a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
5. Spiced Fruit Compote: A warm compote made from apples or pears offers fruity freshness that pairs beautifully with the cookies.
6. Chocolate Ganache Dip: For chocolate lovers, serve these cookies with a side of rich chocolate ganache for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using warm butter: Warm butter can lead to a greasy cookie texture. Always use softened butter at room temperature for the right consistency.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Under-measuring flour: Incorrect measurements can affect the cookie’s structure. Use the spoon and level method for accurate flour measurement.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep them chewy and tender.
• Ignoring spice measurements: Too much or too little spice can throw off flavor balance. Stick to the recipe’s spice amounts for perfect flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming cookies for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies.

Can I use other types of cheese in my filling?

You can try mascarpone or ricotta cheese, but cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor for these cookies.

How do I make apple cider reduction?

Simmer apple cider over medium heat until it reduces by half, concentrating its flavor. This should take about 15-20 minutes.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have ground spices?

You can substitute with pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice if you don’t have individual spices on hand.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines chewy cookie goodness with creamy cheesecake filling, making them perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize your cookies by adding different spices, nuts, or even drizzling with caramel sauce. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a sweet taste of autumn!

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