Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the flavors of fall with the creamy goodness of cheesecake. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with pumpkin flavor, making them ideal for cozy gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a chilly day. Every bite is a warm hug, and you’ll find it hard to eat just one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cheesecake is a match made in heaven.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive celebration, these cookies will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delicious cookies.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies maintain a soft and chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients easy and ensures everything is well combined.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating your wet and dry ingredients for optimal mixing.
• Baking sheets: Provides the perfect surface for even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

These are the best pumpkin cheesecake cookies! They are super chewy pumpkin cookies, stuffed with creamy cheesecake filling and rolled in pumpkin spice sugar. They’re the perfect fall treat and every pumpkin lover will adore them!

For the Cheesecake Filling

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

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s)
• 1 3/4 cups (219 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 g) light brown sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla

How to Make Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, use your stand mixer to beat together:
1. Cold cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar and vanilla until well combined.

Set this mixture aside while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, mix together:
1. The remaining granulated sugar and pumpkin pie spice.
2. Canned pumpkin puree until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in another bowl.
4. In yet another bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
5. Add egg yolks and vanilla into the butter mixture.

Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop:
1. Take a portion of cookie dough.
2. Flatten it slightly in your palm.
3. Place about one teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center.
4. Fold the dough around it to encase the filling completely.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Place each filled cookie on prepared baking sheets:
1. Bake for about 12 minutes or until lightly browned at the edges.
2. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies!

How to Serve Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Serving pumpkin cheesecake cookies can elevate any gathering or cozy evening at home. These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your pumpkin cheesecake cookies with a hot cup of coffee for a comforting afternoon break. The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall treats like apple pie and pecan bars. This creates an inviting spread for guests during gatherings.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Drizzle warm pumpkin cheesecake cookies with caramel sauce and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This combination adds an extra layer of indulgence.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual pumpkin cheesecake cookies in decorative bags as party favors. This thoughtful gesture leaves your guests with a sweet reminder of the event.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin cheesecake cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips.

• Use cold cream cheese – Starting with cold cream cheese helps achieve a thicker filling that won’t run out during baking.
• Sift your flour – Sifting flour before measuring ensures you don’t add too much, resulting in lighter, chewier cookies.
• Measure canned pumpkin carefully – Using the right amount of canned pumpkin puree is crucial for the texture and flavor balance in your cookies.
• Chill dough if needed – If your dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to make rolling easier.
• Don’t overbake – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Pumpkin cheesecake cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Hot Apple Cider – A warm mug of spiced apple cider complements the autumn flavors in these cookies beautifully.
2. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra sweet touch.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting – For those who love more sweetness, serve these cookies with a side of creamy frosting for dipping.
4. Peppermint Hot Chocolate – The rich chocolate flavor and minty freshness create a delightful contrast to the spices in the cookies.
5. Chai Tea – This spiced tea enhances the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice, making it an excellent pairing choice.
6. Cheese Board – Include assorted cheeses and fruits on a cheese board to provide savory balance against the sweet cookie flavors.
7. Pecan Pie Bars – Offering these alongside pecan pie bars can create a delightful dessert experience for guests who enjoy variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the cream cheese prep – Ensure your cream cheese is cold but softened slightly to make mixing easier. This helps achieve a smooth filling.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour and sugar. Incorrect measurements can lead to dry or overly wet cookies.
• Overbaking the cookies – Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove them when they are just set; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
• Ignoring room temperature eggs – Using cold egg yolks can lead to uneven mixing. Always let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
• Forgetting to chill the dough – Allowing your dough to chill for at least 30 minutes will enhance the flavors and prevent spreading during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container once solid; they can last for 2-3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat cookies individually for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but ensure it’s well-cooked and drained of excess moisture for best results.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra treat!

What makes these Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies unique?

The combination of chewy pumpkin cookie dough with creamy cheesecake filling creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Are Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies suitable for special diets?

You can modify these cookies by using gluten-free flour or dairy-free cream cheese if needed.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and perfect for sharing during the fall season. You can easily customize them with various mix-ins or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of autumn right from your kitchen!