Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Filled (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cheesecake Filling

01 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cookie Dough

04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
09 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
12 - 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a small bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes until firm.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Gently fold in crushed freeze-dried strawberries and white chocolate chips if using.
03 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough, flatten into a disc, and place a frozen cheesecake filling portion in the center. Cover with additional dough, sealing edges completely. Place cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and centers are just set. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Notes:

01 - Freezing the cheesecake filling prevents it from leaking during baking, ensuring a creamy center.
02 - Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
03 - If freeze-dried strawberries are unavailable, substitute with strawberry jam swirled into the dough or dried fresh strawberries, ensuring excess moisture is removed.

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