Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies combine the best of fall flavors with a creamy twist, making them the ultimate treat for any autumn occasion. These chewy apple cider cookies, stuffed with a sweet cheesecake filling and topped with spiced sugar, are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re enjoying a crisp fall day or hosting a holiday gathering, these cookies will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
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Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
These cookies are more than just a delicious dessert — they embody the essence of fall. The chewy apple cider cookies paired with creamy cheesecake filling create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The apple cider flavor shines through, evoking the comfort of autumn cider donuts, while the cheesecake filling offers a rich, indulgent surprise in the center. The addition of spiced sugar sprinkled on top enhances the overall flavor, bringing the warm, cozy spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to each bite. These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to make, making them the perfect family baking project.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
For the Apple Cider Reduction:
- Apple Cider: Concentrated to bring out a rich apple flavor without adding excess moisture.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream Cheese: Forms the base of the sweet, tangy filling.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle, sweet aroma to the filling.
For the Apple Cider Cookies:
- Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and moisture to the cookie dough.
- Light Brown Sugar: Contributes to the chewy texture and caramelized flavor.
- Granulated White Sugar: Balances the brown sugar and adds sweetness.
- Egg Yolks: Add richness to the dough and help bind the ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cookie dough’s flavor.
- Flour: Forms the structure of the cookies.
- Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Allspice): These warm spices evoke the flavors of fall.
- Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Provide a slight lift without making the cookies cakey.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.
For the Spiced Sugar:
- Granulated Sugar: Used as the base for the spiced coating.
- Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Allspice: The perfect trio of spices to complete the fall flavor.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
- Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and butter to make these cookies dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
- Spiced Filling: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake filling for an extra layer of spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
- Make the Apple Cider Reduction: Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat for 25-38 minutes until reduced to 2 tablespoons. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Let the reduction cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Scoop the mixture into 16 portions and freeze until firm.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Add egg yolks, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction, mixing until smooth.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Assemble the Cookies: Scoop the dough into 16 portions and slightly flatten each. Place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center of each dough portion, then seal the dough around the cheesecake. Roll into a ball.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 11-12 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Finish with Spiced Sugar: Mix granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a small bowl. Once the cookies are cool, brush them with melted butter and sprinkle the spiced sugar over the top.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
- Proper Cider Reduction: Ensure you reduce the apple cider to a thick consistency. This step is crucial for achieving the right flavor and chewy texture in your cookies.
- Freeze the Cheesecake Filling: Make sure the cheesecake filling is completely frozen before adding it to the cookies. This helps prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Cooling the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely before enjoying them. The cheesecake filling will firm up as they cool, making them easier to eat.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a hot cup of apple cider or a cozy cinnamon latte for an extra autumnal touch. For a unique twist, try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness. You can also customize the spiced sugar by adding a bit of ginger for a spicy kick.
If you want to make a large batch for a holiday party or a family gathering, these cookies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature, or freeze them for up to two weeks. They’re perfect for preparing in advance!
Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal of Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
Apple cider is rich in antioxidants, which can help fight off inflammation and promote good health. While these cookies are indulgent, using fresh apple cider and natural spices can offer a small boost of nutrition with each bite. Plus, these cookies make the perfect fall treat, bringing together the flavors of the season in one delightful dessert.
These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are a must-try this fall. With their chewy texture, creamy cheesecake filling, and spiced sugar topping, they are a true celebration of autumn flavors. Make a batch today and enjoy the warmth of fall in every bite!
Conclusion: A Must-Make Fall Treat
Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect way to welcome the fall season. With their chewy texture, creamy cheesecake center, and spiced sugar coating, these cookies offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply enjoying the cozy vibes of fall, these cookies provide the ultimate indulgence. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and experience the warm, comforting taste of apple cider and cheesecake in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. You can prepare the dough and freeze the cheesecake filling in advance. Once ready to bake, simply assemble the cookies and bake as directed. For storage, keep them in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to two weeks.
Can I substitute apple juice for apple cider in this recipe?
It’s best to use apple cider rather than apple juice. Apple cider has a deeper, richer flavor that is essential to achieving the right taste and texture in these cookies. If you use apple juice, the flavor won’t be as strong, and the texture might not be as chewy.
How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking during baking?
To ensure the cheesecake filling stays inside the cookie, freeze the cheesecake portions before adding them to the dough. This helps keep the filling intact while the cookies bake, preventing any leaks and ensuring a perfectly stuffed cookie.
More Relevant Recipes
- Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: These muffins combine the best of fall flavors with a soft, moist texture. The addition of a crumbly streusel topping takes them to the next level, making them a perfect breakfast or snack that pairs well with a cup of warm cider.
- Apple Cider Glazed Chicken: This savory dish brings the sweetness of apple cider into a rich, tangy glaze that coats tender chicken. Perfect for a hearty fall dinner, the apple cider glaze pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Apple Cinnamon Jam: This homemade jam brings the cozy flavors of apple and cinnamon together in a spreadable form. It’s a great addition to your fall baking, perfect for topping toast or pairing with cheese for a festive appetizer.
Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 3 hours 1 minute
- Yield: 16 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies combine the best of fall flavors with a creamy twist. These chewy apple cider cookies, stuffed with a sweet cheesecake filling and topped with spiced sugar, are the ultimate treat for any autumn occasion. Perfect for the fall season, they provide a delightful balance of warm spices and tangy sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (480 ml) Apple Cider
- 6 oz (170 g) Cream Cheese, cold
- 3 tbsp (38 g) Granulated White Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 3/4 cups (218 g) All-Purpose Flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp Ground Allspice
- 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 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 Extract
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Apple Cider Reduction
- 1/4 cup (50 g) Granulated White Sugar (for spiced sugar)
- 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon (for spiced sugar)
- 1/8 tsp Ground Nutmeg (for spiced sugar)
- Pinch Ground Allspice (for spiced sugar)
- 1-2 tbsp (14-28 g) Salted Butter, melted (for spiced sugar)
Instructions
- Add the apple cider to a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let it reduce until you have 2 tbsp (30 ml) of thick apple cider reduction, which may take 25-38 minutes. Allow it to cool.
- In a small bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Scoop into 16, 2 tsp portions and freeze until firm.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add the egg yolks, vanilla, and cooled apple cider reduction to the butter mixture and mix until pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Scrape in any remaining cider reduction and mix well.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and combine until just incorporated.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for 15-20 minutes.
- Scoop dough into 16 portions, flatten slightly, and place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center. Seal the dough around the cheesecake and roll back into a ball.
- Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 11-12 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Brush the cooled cookies with melted butter and sprinkle with the spiced sugar mixture.
Notes
- Make sure the apple cider is reduced to a thick consistency for the best flavor and texture.
- Freeze the cheesecake filling before adding it to the cookies to prevent leaks during baking.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely to ensure the cheesecake filling sets properly.
- For a perfectly round shape, gently scoot a large round cookie cutter around the cookies while still hot from the oven.
- Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg