NEW YORK CHEESECAKE COOKIES

New York Cheesecake Cookies bring together the creamy, rich flavors of traditional New York cheesecake and the convenient, hand-held form of cookies. This innovative dessert combines a buttery, graham cracker-infused cookie dough with a cheesecake filling, topped with a strawberry or cherry preserve. Ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a sophisticated treat with afternoon tea, these cookies offer a delightful twist on two beloved desserts.

Ingredients Overview

Cream Cheese

• Why This Ingredient? Cream cheese is the core of the cheesecake filling, providing its signature creamy texture and tangy flavor.
• Health Benefits: Cream cheese is a good source of vitamin A and contributes to your daily protein intake.

Graham Crackers

• Why This Ingredient? Graham crackers are crushed and mixed into the cookie dough, giving it a distinct flavor reminiscent of a cheesecake crust.
• Health Benefits: Graham crackers add a dose of fiber, especially if you choose the whole grain variety.

Fruit Preserves

• Why This Ingredient? A dollop of strawberry or cherry preserves on top of each cookie adds a sweet and slightly tart contrast to the richness of the cheesecake filling.
• Health Benefits: Fruit preserves contain fruit’s natural antioxidants, although they’re often high in sugar.

Sugar

• Why This Ingredient? Sugar sweetens the cookie dough and cheesecake filling, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Health Benefits: While sugar primarily provides energy, it should be consumed in moderation.

Substitutions

For those with specific dietary preferences or restrictions, consider these alternatives:

• Cream Cheese: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan version.
• Graham Crackers: Gluten-free graham crackers can be used for those avoiding gluten.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar or a natural sugar substitute like stevia can be used to reduce the recipe’s glycemic index.

Recipe

Yield: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 24 teaspoons strawberry or cherry preserves

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Make Cookie Dough: In a bowl, combine flour, crushed graham crackers, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Assemble Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets. Use the back of a spoon to create a small well in each cookie. Fill each well with a teaspoon of cheesecake filling, then top with a teaspoon of preserves.
5. Bake: Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are golden. Remove from oven and cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Nutrition

Each cookie approximately contains:

• Calories: 150
• Carbs: 18g
• Fats: 8g
• Protein: 2g

Storage Instructions

Store New York Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best texture, let come to room temperature before serving.

FAQ

1. Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour and graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives.