Caramel Cheesecake Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cheesecake Filling

01 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

04 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt

→ Cookie Dough

08 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
10 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
11 - 1 large egg, room temperature
12 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
13 - 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar for rolling (optional)

→ Finishing

14 - 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined plate (18 to 20 pieces) and freeze for 20 to 30 minutes.
02 - Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and fine salt in a bowl. Set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined without overmixing.
04 - Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten into a disc. Place a frozen cheesecake filling dollop in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling completely and roll into a sealed ball. Optionally, roll the balls in granulated sugar. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
05 - Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and cracks form on top.
06 - Allow cookies to cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle generously with caramel sauce before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Freeze the cheesecake filling to prevent leakage during baking.
02 - Ensure the dough is completely sealed around the filling to retain the creamy center.
03 - Do not overbake to maintain a soft and creamy texture inside.