Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

Festive and indulgent, Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies are the perfect treat for any celebration. With their vibrant colors, creamy cheesecake center, and delightful white chocolate chips, these cookies bring joy to Christmas gatherings and special occasions alike. The contrast of flavors makes them irresistible, ensuring they will be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: These cookies combine the rich taste of red velvet with a tangy cheesecake filling, creating a unique dessert experience.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for Christmas or birthdays, these cookies add a festive touch to any dessert table.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these cookies without any hassle.
• Impressive Presentation: The striking red color and creamy filling make these cookies not just delicious but also visually appealing.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as snacks, gifts, or party favors. They suit various occasions effortlessly.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your baking adventure, gather your tools for making Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies. Having everything ready ensures a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Freezer-safe dish
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized while mixing.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies.

Ingredients

Festive red velvet cookies with a surprise cheesecake center and white chocolate chips. Perfect for Christmas or special occasions.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup Butter (barely softened)
• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 2 large Eggs
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 2 teaspoons Red Food Coloring or Gel
• 1/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 3 cups Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/2 teaspoon Cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Salt (use 1/2 teaspoon if using salted butter)
• 1 3/4 to 2 cups White Chocolate Chips

For the Cheesecake Filling

• (1) 8-ounce pkg. Cream Cheese (barely softened)
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Scoop small portions (16 portions) onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until firm.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and red food coloring until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, fold together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in white chocolate chips.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

Scoop dough into 16 balls and flatten each ball into discs. Place one frozen cheesecake ball in the center of each disc. Wrap the dough around the filling completely by pinching seams closed and rolling into smooth balls.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Place your prepared cookie balls on lined baking sheets. Bake for about 10-13 minutes until edges are set but centers still look soft. Use a round spatula or glass rim immediately after taking them out to shape them into perfect circles.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Optionally drizzle with melted white chocolate or add colorful sprinkles to enhance their festive appeal!

Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies are not only delicious but also visually stunning. They can be served in various delightful ways to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy a sweet treat.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the rich flavors of the cookies.
• Opt for cold whole milk to complement the sweetness and creaminess.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies alongside other festive treats like brownies and cupcakes.
• This makes for an eye-catching display at parties or gatherings.

Drizzled with White Chocolate

• Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top for extra sweetness.
• This creates a beautiful presentation and amplifies the cookie’s flavor.

Topped with Sprinkles

• Use festive sprinkles to make your cookies even more fun.
• Great for birthdays or holiday celebrations, adding color and excitement.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite hot beverage.
• The warmth of coffee or tea balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

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How to Perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender and not tough. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
• Chill Your Dough: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will help in shaping and prevent spreading during baking.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature. An inaccurate oven can lead to uneven baking.
• Shape Cookies Evenly: Use a cookie scoop for uniform shapes, ensuring even baking and consistent texture across all cookies.
• Store Properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Ice Cream: Vanilla or cream cheese ice cream complements the richness of the cookies perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites echo the cheesecake center within the cookies for a delightful theme.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie in chocolate fondue for an indulgent experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
5. Coffee Cake: Serve slices of moist coffee cake alongside for a brunch option that pairs well with coffee.
6. Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa is great for holiday gatherings, enhancing the festive spirit while pairing nicely with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to freeze the cheesecake filling can result in melted filling during baking. Always freeze for at least 45 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect the cookie’s taste and texture. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause cookies to burn or underbake. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm cookies for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies:

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes, feel free to substitute white chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies are done when the edges are set, but the centers still look slightly soft.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and freeze it before baking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

What should I do if my cheesecake filling is too soft?

Ensure that your cream cheese is well chilled before mixing. Adding a bit more powdered sugar can also help firm it up.

Final Thoughts

Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize according to your tastes. You might add nuts or swap out chocolate chips for something unique. Try this festive recipe for your next gathering and impress everyone with its delightful flavors!