Get ready to indulge in a holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peppermint with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. These Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect festive cookie that will have your taste buds dancing with joy and leave your kitchen smelling like a winter wonderland.

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that is packed with chunks of chocolate and infused with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Each cookie features a luscious cheesecake filling that adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet chocolate, making these cookies an irresistible treat for any holiday gathering or special occasion.

These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of festive cookies that are sure to impress. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or as a special treat for yourself, these Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies are a must-try this season.

Resume of the Recipe: Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies offer a delightful combination of rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and creamy cheesecake filling. These cookies are soft and chewy with a unique twist that makes them stand out from traditional cookies. Quick and easy to prepare, they’re perfect for holiday celebrations and make a festive addition to any dessert table.

Exciting Story: I first made these Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies for a holiday party, and they were an instant hit. The combination of chocolate and peppermint brought a burst of festive flavor that everyone loved, and the creamy cheesecake filling was a delightful surprise in every bite. Since then, they’ve become a staple in my holiday baking repertoire. They’re always a crowd-pleaser and add a touch of elegance to any cookie tray.

Why These Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies?

• Festive Flavors: The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a deliciously seasonal flavor profile that’s perfect for the holidays.
• Creamy Cheesecake Filling: The surprise cheesecake center adds a rich, creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookie exterior.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, these cookies are a breeze to prepare, making holiday baking a joy.

How to Make Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
6. For the cheesecake filling, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making an indentation in the center of each.
8. Spoon a small amount of cheesecake filling into the center of each cookie dough mound.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, sprinkle the cookies with crushed peppermint candies and additional mini chocolate chips if desired.

Tips For Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing the filling easier.
• For a smoother filling, beat the cream cheese mixture until it’s completely smooth before adding to the cookies.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Replace peppermint extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• Use white chocolate chips or chunks in place of mini chocolate chips for a different twist.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese for the cheesecake filling to lower the calorie content.
• Substitute a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or maple syrup for granulated sugar in the cookie dough and filling.

Closing: And there you have it! These Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holidays with a touch of elegance and a burst of festive flavor. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party or just to enjoy at home, they’re sure to be a hit. Let us know how your cookies turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our delicious recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies

Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips instead of mini chips?

Yes, regular-sized chocolate chips can be used. Just chop them into smaller pieces if desired.

How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, these cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute for regular cream cheese.

What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

You can use almond extract or vanilla extract for a different flavor, though it will change the overall taste.

How can I make these cookies look more festive?

Sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candies or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decorative touch.

What if my cheesecake filling is too runny?

Ensure the cream cheese is softened and well-beaten. If the filling is still runny, chill it slightly before using.

Can I use a different type of candy for topping?

Yes, you can use crushed toffee, sprinkles, or any other candy you like for a different topping.

How do I make sure my cookies don’t spread too much?

Chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

Can I make these cookies in advance?

Yes, you can make the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container. They also freeze well if you want to prepare them ahead of time.

Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes, Chocolate, Christmas, Dessert, Snacks, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

• For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

• For Topping:

• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

• Additional mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
• In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
• For the cheesecake filling, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making an indentation in the center of each.
• Spoon a small amount of cheesecake filling into the center of each cookie dough mound.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once cooled, sprinkle the cookies with crushed peppermint candies and additional mini chocolate chips if desired.