Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Salted (Print Version)

Golden cookies filled with cheesecake cream, finished with caramel and a hint of sea salt.

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Dough

01 - 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
08 - Pinch of salt

→ Cheesecake Filling

09 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
10 - 1/3 cup powdered sugar
11 - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Topping

12 - 1/4 cup caramel sauce
13 - Pinch of flaky sea salt

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and pinch of salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
05 - In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
06 - Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, flatten each into a disc, and place a small spoonful of cheesecake filling in the center. Gently fold the dough around the filling, seal well, and roll into a ball. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all dough and filling are used.
07 - Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and centers are still soft. Cool completely on the baking sheet.
08 - Drizzle each cooled cookie with warm caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve once set.

# Notes:

01 - Fully softened butter and cream cheese ensure a smooth dough and creamy filling.
02 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for optimal texture.