The smell of warm apple cider, the rich flavors of fall spices, and the indulgence of creamy cheesecake all come together in one heavenly treat: Soft Apple Cider Cookies with a Cheesecake Filling. Imagine biting into a soft, spiced cookie only to discover a smooth, tangy cheesecake center. These cookies are the perfect mix of comfort and decadence, making them an absolute must-try for your baking list.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy family night, a holiday party, or just to enjoy the warm flavors of fall, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of spiced cookies and bring smiles to everyone who tastes them.

Why You Need to Try These Cookies

These cookies are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love baking and sharing them:

• Unique Combination: Soft apple cider cookies meet creamy cheesecake for an unforgettable flavor.
• Seasonal Perfection: The warm spices and apple cider reduction scream fall and winter comfort.
• Show-Stopping Center: The surprise cheesecake filling makes them a standout at any gathering.
• Irresistibly Soft and Chewy: The texture is perfectly soft, and the spiced sugar topping adds a delicate crunch.

Ready to elevate your baking game? Let’s dive into every step to make these incredible cookies!

Ingredients for Soft Apple Cider Cookies with Cheesecake Filling

Before you start baking, gather all the ingredients. Here’s a handy table to keep everything organized:

For the Apple Cider Reduction

Ingredient	Measurement
Apple cider	2 cups (480 ml)

For the Cheesecake Filling

Ingredient	Measurement
Cream cheese (cold)	6 oz (170 g)
Granulated sugar	3 tbsp (38 g)
Vanilla extract	½ tsp

For the Apple Cider Cookies

Ingredient	Measurement
All-purpose flour	1 ¾ cups (218 g)
Ground cinnamon	2 ½ tsp
Ground nutmeg	½ tsp
Ground allspice	¼ tsp
Baking powder	½ tsp
Baking soda	½ tsp
Salt	½ tsp
Unsalted butter (softened)	¾ cup (168 g)
Light brown sugar (packed)	¾ cup (165 g)
Granulated sugar	¼ cup (50 g)
Egg yolks (room temperature)	2
Vanilla extract	2 tsp
Apple cider reduction (from above)	2 tbsp (30 ml)

For the Spiced Sugar

Ingredient	Measurement
Granulated sugar	¼ cup (50 g)
Ground cinnamon	¼ tsp
Ground nutmeg	⅛ tsp
Ground allspice	Pinch
Salted butter (melted)	1–2 tbsp (14–28 g)

How to Make Apple Cider Cookies with Cheesecake Filling

Step 1: Make the Apple Cider Reduction

The apple cider reduction is what gives these cookies their rich, concentrated apple flavor.

1. Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the cider to a simmer over medium-low heat.
3. Let the cider reduce until it becomes thick and syrupy, about 25–38 minutes.
   • Stir frequently during the last 5 minutes to avoid burning.
4. Once reduced to 2 tablespoons (30 ml), set it aside to cool.

Pro Tip: The reduction will get thick and sticky as it cools—that’s exactly what you want!

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
3. Scoop the filling into 16 portions, using about 2 teaspoons for each.
4. Freeze the cheesecake balls until firm. This will make it easier to handle later.

Step 3: Mix the Cookie Dough

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Allspice
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction.
   • Scrape the sticky reduction into the bowl—it will incorporate as you mix.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture on low speed.
2. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop the chilled cookie dough into 16 portions using a 1½ tablespoon scoop.
3. Flatten each dough ball slightly, place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center, and wrap the dough around it.
4. Roll each cookie into a smooth ball, ensuring the cheesecake filling is completely covered.

Pro Tip: Keep the cheesecake balls in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Place the cookie dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake 6 cookies at a time for 11–12 minutes.
3. Immediately after baking, use a round cookie cutter to gently “scoot” the cookies into a perfect circle.
4. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

Step 6: Finish with Spiced Sugar

1. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Brush the tops of the cooled cookies with melted butter.
3. Sprinkle or gently roll the cookies in the spiced sugar for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

• Freeze the Cheesecake Filling: This step is essential to keep the center creamy and intact during baking.
• Don’t Skip the Reduction: The apple cider reduction intensifies the apple flavor—don’t rush this step!
• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the dough hold its shape and makes assembly easier.
• Work in Batches: Only take out a few cheesecake balls at a time to keep them firm.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the approximate nutritional values for one cookie:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	10g
Protein	3g
Sugar	18g

FAQs: Soft Apple Cider Cookies with Cheesecake Filling

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Store baked cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

2. How do I store the cookies?
Keep them refrigerated due to the cheesecake filling. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

4. Can I skip the apple cider reduction?
It’s not recommended—the reduction is key to achieving the deep apple flavor.

5. Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Yes, but make sure it’s real apple cider and not apple juice.

6. What’s the best way to reheat these cookies?
Enjoy them at room temperature, or warm them for 10 seconds in the microwave.

Give These Cookies a Try!

These Soft Apple Cider Cookies with a Cheesecake Filling are the ultimate fall and winter indulgence. With their spiced flavor, creamy center, and sugary coating, they’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re sharing them at a party, gifting them during the holidays, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a baking favorite.

Ready to bring some cozy comfort to your kitchen? Bake these cookies today—you won’t regret it!

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