Instructions:
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Make the Cookie Base:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, beating until well combined. Set aside.
Make the Graham Cracker Crumble:
In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
Assemble the Cookies:
Remove the cookie dough from the refrigerator.
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it into a small disk.
Place a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center of the disk.
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it inside, and roll it into a ball.
Roll the ball in the graham cracker crumble, coating it evenly.
Place the cookie on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Bake the Cookies:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage:
Serve the New York Cheesecake Cookies at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips for Success:
Ensure that the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before starting, as this will result in a smoother filling and dough.
Do not overbake the cookies; they should still be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
For a more pronounced lemon flavor, you can add a little lemon juice to the cheesecake filling.
Conclusion:
New York Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the convenience of a cookie. With their graham cracker crumble and tangy lemon zest, these cookies capture the essence of a classic New York cheesecake. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a personal indulgence, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
