Picture merging the crunchy, cinnamon-coated goodness of churros with the smooth, tangy essence of cheesecake and the tender bite of fresh donuts into a single extraordinary dessert. These Cinnamon-Sugar Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies deliver precisely that experience—a creative fusion that captures the most beloved aspects of these traditional sweets in convenient, handheld portions. Ideal for celebrations, social gatherings, or as a special accompaniment to your afternoon tea, these treats will dazzle guests with their unique combination of tastes and mouthfeel.
Required Ingredients
For these delectable creations, gather:
- All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups)
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
- Fine salt (½ teaspoon)
- Butter, room temperature (¼ cup)
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces)
- White sugar (1 cup)
- Large egg (1)
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- White sugar (½ cup)
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
For the Cream Cheese Center:
- Cream cheese, softened (4 ounces)
- White sugar (2 tablespoons)
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Time Investment
- Prep work: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Complete process: Approximately 1 hour
Note that the recipe requires dough chilling time, so factor this into your schedule.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Create the Cookie Base
Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium mixing bowl using a whisk. In a larger bowl, blend the softened butter, 4 ounces cream cheese, and 1 cup sugar until the mixture becomes pale and airy. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly. Slowly fold the flour mixture into the creamed ingredients, stirring only until everything comes together. Refrigerate the dough for a minimum of 30 minutes to achieve proper firmness.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Filling
During the chilling period, create the cheesecake center by blending 4 ounces cream cheese with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until completely smooth. Reserve for later use.
Step 3: Form and Stuff the Treats
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Retrieve the chilled dough from refrigeration. Portion out small amounts of dough, press flat in your hand, and add one teaspoon of cream cheese mixture to the middle. Encase the filling by wrapping the dough around it and forming into a sphere. Make certain the filling stays completely sealed inside.
Step 4: Apply the Cinnamon Coating
Combine ½ cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a shallow dish. Roll each formed cookie thoroughly in this mixture until evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the cinnamon-sugar rolled balls on the prepared pan, leaving about 2 inches of space around each cookie. Gently press down using the base of a drinking glass to flatten slightly. Cook in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the borders become lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool Down
Allow the cookies to sit on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool entirely.
Nutritional Details
Per cookie, expect roughly:
- Energy: 150-200 calories
- Carbs: 25 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fat: 7 grams
Serving Ideas
While fantastic eaten alone, these Cinnamon-Sugar Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies complement hot coffee with milk beautifully or pair wonderfully with a tall glass of fresh milk. These treats serve as a wonderful focal point for sweet tables, especially at festive gatherings or milestone events.
Mistakes to Watch Out For
- Using too much filling can cause leakage while baking, so limit the cream cheese center to one teaspoon maximum per cookie
- Keep the dough well-refrigerated to avoid the cookies spreading too much during baking.
Storage Instructions
Keep these treats in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or store in the refrigerator for one week maximum. The taste actually improves after sitting overnight as the flavors have time to blend together perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Combining the sweet cinnamon crunch of churros with the rich creaminess of cheesecake and the soft texture of donuts, these Cinnamon-Sugar Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies represent a dessert lover’s paradise. Give this recipe a try and prepare for the amazement of those lucky enough to taste your innovative baking skills. Feel free to experiment with your own variations and share your creative results!
