Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful fall treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with a rich cheesecake filling. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Pumpkin Cookie Dough:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Assemble the Cookies:
   Scoop about 1 tablespoon of pumpkin cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create a small well in the center of each dough ball. Place a small dollop of the cheesecake filling into the well of each cookie dough ball. Optionally, you can add a small additional piece of cookie dough on top of the filling to cover it slightly.
5. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the edges are lightly golden.
6. Cool and Serve:
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies

Variations

• Spices: Adjust the spices to your liking by adding more cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Chocolate Chips: Incorporate chocolate chips into the pumpkin dough for a sweet twist.
• Nut Options: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
   No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will alter the recipe.
2. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
   You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
4. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
   Ensure your butter is at room temperature, not melted, and chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
5. What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
   You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.
6. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
7. What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
   Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft.
8. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
   Yes, use dairy-free butter and a non-dairy cream cheese substitute.
9. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should be set but slightly soft.
10. Can I add more pumpkin puree?
    While you can add more, it may affect the dough’s consistency. Adjust flour accordingly if you do.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies are a delicious blend of flavors that celebrate the essence of fall. With their soft texture and creamy filling, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a delightful snack throughout the week!

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