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Churro Cheesecake Cookies

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This provides the structure and base for the cookies. Make sure to measure accurately for the best results.
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder: This helps the cookies rise giving them a light and airy texture.
  • 1/4 tsp salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened: Softened butter is crucial for creating a creamy, well-combined dough. Ensure it is at room temperature but not melted.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and contributes to the golden-brown color of the cookies.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed: Brown sugar adds a depth of flavor and helps to create a slightly chewy texture. The molasses in brown sugar enhances the caramel notes in the cookies.
  • 1 large egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the dough.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened: This is the key ingredient that gives the cookies their cheesecake-like flavor and incredibly soft texture.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This is used for the cinnamon-sugar coating providing sweetness and a delightful crunch.
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the coating perfectly complementing the cream cheese and sugar.

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the cookies bake evenly without burning. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze. Using a baking sheet is highly recommended, as greasing the pan directly can lead to uneven baking and potential sticking.
  • Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that these dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is essential for consistent baking. This step also helps to incorporate air into the flour, resulting in a lighter cookie. Set this bowl aside.
  • Step 3: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie. Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air, which contributes to the cookie's soft texture. Ensure that the butter is properly softened to avoid lumps in the dough.
  • Step 4: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until well combined. Then, blend in the softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The cream cheese should be at room temperature to avoid clumping. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure that all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour mixture) to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. Mix only until the flour is just incorporated; a few streaks of flour are acceptable. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a denser, chewier cookie.
  • Step 6: Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows the cookies room to spread as they bake. If you don't have a cookie scoop, you can use a tablespoon to portion out the dough.
  • Step 7: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The cookies should be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. They will continue to set as they cool. Avoid overbaking, as this can result in dry cookies.
  • Step 8: While the cookies are still warm, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Ensure that the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
  • Step 9: While the cookies are still warm, gently roll each cookie in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly. The warmth of the cookies will help the sugar to adhere better. Ensure that each cookie is thoroughly coated for the best flavor and texture. Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.