Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

If you love the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a unique, delightful treat, these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine soft, spiced apple cider cookies with a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling melting in your mouth – it’s a perfect combination that brings warmth and sweetness to every bite. These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies aren’t just cookies; they’re a celebration of comfort and flavor that will brighten any gathering or a quiet afternoon treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies is easier than it sounds because each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the signature texture and taste that makes this recipe so special. From the tangy cream cheese to the fragrant spices, everything works together harmoniously.

• Apple cider: Reduced to a thick, intense syrup to infuse rich apple flavor into the dough.
• Cream cheese: The cold cream cheese creates a creamy, tangy cheesecake filling for the center.
• Granulated white sugar: Sweetens both the cheesecake filling and cookie dough evenly.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm aromatic backdrop to the mixture.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cookie, ensuring a tender but sturdy base.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice: Classic fall spices that bring warmth and complexity.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cookies rise perfectly for a soft texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, creating a buttery crumb.
• Light brown sugar: Imparts a subtle caramel note and keeps the cookies chewy.
• Egg yolks: Bind the dough and contribute to tenderness.
• Spiced sugar mixture: A finishing touch with melted butter and sugar spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg for sparkle and flavor.

How to Make Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction

Start by simmering 2 cups of apple cider over medium-low heat until it reduces down to approximately 2 tablespoons. This step concentrates the apple flavor wonderfully and creates a sticky syrup that will later swirl into the cookie dough, infusing it with bold apple notes. Keep a close eye on it in the last few minutes to prevent over-reduction and burning. Once cooled, the reduction becomes thick, almost candy-like, but don’t worry—it blends beautifully into the dough and butter mixture.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While the cider reduces, whip together cold cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy and smooth. This creamy filling is portioned into little balls and frozen solid, ensuring they hold their shape inside the cookies during baking. This luscious surprise at the center is what makes these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies truly stand out.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Whisk together all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to build the perfect spice base. Separately, cream the softened butter with both light brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the egg yolks, vanilla, and sticky apple cider reduction. Be patient here when adding the cider reduction since it can be thick and sticky after cooling—using a spatula helps incorporate it fully.

Step 4: Combine and Chill the Dough

Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, making it much easier to handle when assembling the cookies.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Cookies

Scoop dough into portions and gently flatten each ball. Nestle a frozen cheesecake ball in the center, fold the dough completely around it, and roll it back into a smooth ball. Bake the cookies at 350°F in small batches for 11-12 minutes, then gently round the cookies out with a cookie cutter while still warm. Allow them to cool partially before moving them to a wire rack.

Step 6: Add the Spiced Sugar Topping

Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice into granulated sugar for a fragrant spiced sugar dusting. Brush the cooled cookies with melted butter and either sprinkle or roll them in the spiced sugar for an irresistible, slightly crunchy finish that complements the soft cookie and creamy center perfectly.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Garnishes

To make your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies even more enchanting, consider light dustings of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness and charm. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or a steamy mug of apple cider, elevating the cinnamon and apple flavors. For a cozy brunch or dessert spread, serve alongside fresh apple slices or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to complement their rich cheesecakey center.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, try stacking the cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins and cinnamon sticks for a festive autumn display. You can also place individual cookies in small parchment paper bags tied with twine, making the perfect homemade gift or party favor that everyone will talk about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to retain their softness and creaminess. If you prefer a cool treat, refrigerate them to prolong their freshness for up to a week.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully, which is perfect for prepping ahead. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them all into a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months without losing flavor or texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or briefly warm them in the oven.

Reheating

If you want to recapture that fresh-baked warmth, gently reheat the cookies in a low oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This helps soften the cookie dough once more and brings out the creamy cheesecake filling without melting it away. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them too soft or rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple cider reduction instead of making my own?

While store-bought reductions might save you time, making your own ensures the freshest, most concentrated apple flavor, which really makes these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies special. The homemade reduction also contributes to the ideal texture in the dough.

What if I don’t have all the spices called for in the recipe?

You can certainly customize the spice blend! Cinnamon and nutmeg are the stars here, so if you have to leave out the allspice, it’s okay. The cookies will still be delicious with just those two classic fall spices.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Substituting the cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives can work, but the texture and flavor might vary slightly. Using a firm, plant-based cream cheese and a good-quality vegan butter are your best bets for keeping that signature creaminess.

How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking out during baking?

Freezing the cheesecake filling balls until firm is key. Also, make sure the dough completely envelops the filling with no gaps. This way, the filling stays inside, giving you a soft, creamy center with no mess.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes! If you want to bake the cookies fresh later, prepare the dough balls with cheesecake centers and freeze them on the baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag once solid, then bake straight from frozen, just adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you get to experience the joy these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies bring to the table. They combine the best of soft, spiced cookies with a rich cheesecake surprise, all wrapped up in an enchanting apple cider flavor that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, these cookies have a way of making moments a little sweeter and cozier.

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