Name: Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (480 ml) apple cider; 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold; 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 3/4 cups (218 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; 2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground allspice; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar; 2 egg yolks, at room temperature; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp (30 ml) apple cider reduction from above; 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg; Pinch ground allspice; 1-2 tbsp (14-28 g) salted butter, melted

Jump to Recipe

If you are looking for a cookie that captures all the cozy, warming flavors of autumn in every bite, let me introduce you to the magic of Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies. These delightful cookies combine the comforting spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice with the luscious creaminess of a cheesecake center and the bright, tangy sweetness of apple cider reduction. The result is a soft, tender, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any moment when you want a little taste of sunshine and warmth. Trust me, once you try these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, they might just become your new favorite seasonal indulgence.

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies is how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each item plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma — from the tangy cream cheese that adds that signature richness to the blend of warm spices that fills your kitchen with a comforting scent.

Apple cider: The base for a deeply flavored reduction that infuses each cookie with fruity warmth.
Cream cheese: Cold and creamy, it forms the indulgent cheesecake filling that surprises and delights.
Granulated white sugar: Sweetens both dough and cheesecake filling, balancing tartness and spice.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its familiar, cozy notes.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the dough, ensuring a tender, yet sturdy cookie.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice for autumn treats, giving warmth and depth.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a slightly sweet, nutty note that pairs beautifully with apple.
Ground allspice: Brings a hint of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg in one aromatic pinch.
Baking powder & baking soda: Work together to give the cookies a light, fluffy texture.
Salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors, balancing the cookie perfectly.
Unsalted butter: Softened for creaming, lending richness and helping create a tender crumb.
Light brown sugar: Adds a gentle molasses note and keeps the cookies moist and chewy.
Egg yolks: Provide richness and help bind the dough for perfect texture.
Apple cider reduction: A concentrated form of cider that infuses the dough with intense apple flavor.
Salted butter (melted): For brushing the finished cookies to help the spiced sugar adhere beautifully.

How to Make Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Create the Apple Cider Reduction

This is where the cookie’s magic starts. Simmering your apple cider down until it’s thick and syrupy concentrates the sweet and tangy flavors into a luscious reduction. This step takes some patience — expect around 25 to 38 minutes of simmering — but don’t rush it. Watch closely near the end to prevent burning, and let it cool so it’s ready to incorporate into your dough. This reduction is the secret ingredient that gives these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies their distinct, unforgettable apple essence.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While the cider is reducing, whip up the cheesecake filling by beating cold cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until fluffy and smooth. Portion this mixture into small balls and freeze them solid. These frozen cheesecake bites will nestle inside the cookie dough, melting just enough during baking to create a creamy surprise center — seriously, this is what makes the cookies feel extra luxurious and special.

Step 3: Prepare the Spiced Cookie Dough

Mix together your dry ingredients — flour, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt — in one bowl. In another, cream the softened butter with sugars until airy, then beat in egg yolks, vanilla, and the cooled apple cider reduction. This dough, rich with warm autumn spices and buttery sweetness, is what envelops the cheesecake filling for the ultimate taste experience.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Divide the dough into 16 portions and flatten each slightly. Place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center, carefully wrapping the dough around it until completely sealed. Chilling the dough slightly before baking helps keep the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring a perfect shape and thickness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for 11 to 12 minutes. When they come out, gently press the tops with a cookie cutter if you want perfect round shapes. Let the cookies cool briefly on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch with Spiced Sugar

Mix a blend of sugar and warm spices, then brush melted butter onto each cookie before sprinkling the sugar mixture on top. This final coating adds a delightful, crunchy sugary crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy cookie interior, making each bite wonderfully textured and flavorful.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Garnishes

For a visually stunning presentation, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans can add an extra layer of texture and complementary flavor. These little touches elevate the cozy vibe of the cookies, making them a centerpiece worthy of sharing with friends and family.

Side Dishes

Pair these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies with a warm cup of spiced chai, a robust coffee, or even a glass of warm apple cider for the ultimate autumn experience. They can also accompany a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to turn them into a decadent dessert that’s hard to resist.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cookies on a rustic wooden tray with fall leaves or mini pumpkins for a festive flair. Stack them in a pretty jar tied with a ribbon for gifting to loved ones. You might also sandwich two cookies together with a layer of cream cheese frosting or leftover cheesecake filling for an extra indulgent treat — the possibilities are as fun as your imagination!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To maintain their soft texture and the cheesecake filling’s creaminess, avoid refrigerating unless your kitchen is very warm or humid.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully, whether baked or assembled but unbaked. For baked cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. For unbaked cookies with frozen cheesecake centers, freeze the dough balls on a tray before storing. This way, you can bake fresh batches whenever the craving hits!

Reheating

To enjoy your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies fresh and gooey again, warm them in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps re-soften the cookie and revitalizes the luscious cheesecake center. Avoid microwaving as it can sometimes make the cookie rubbery or the filling too warm and runny.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple cider for the reduction?

Absolutely! Fresh or store-bought apple cider works perfectly for making the reduction. Just make sure to reduce it slowly over low heat to concentrate the flavors and achieve the right thickness.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

You can still make a delicious batch without every spice. Cinnamon is the key player, so keep that one, and feel free to adjust or omit nutmeg and allspice based on what you have. The cookies will still taste lovely and apple-forward.

Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?

Yes, prepping the cheesecake filling and freezing the balls ahead of time is recommended. It makes the assembly faster and helps maintain the shape when baking for those perfect creamy centers.

Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough firms it up, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. This step is essential to keep the cheesecake filling fully enclosed and results in a perfectly shaped cookie.

Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

Cream cheese is essential for the tangy, creamy filling texture in these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies. While you might experiment with mascarpone or ricotta, the flavor and texture will differ and might not give you the same luscious, rich surprise inside.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies — they strike the perfect chord between fruitiness, spice, and creamy indulgence. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, these cookies promise to bring warmth and delight. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and treat yourself to a cozy taste of autumn that will surely leave you reaching for one more.

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 19 reviews

Author: Lana
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 16 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in these Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies that combine the warm, cozy flavors of spiced apple cider with a creamy cheesecake filling. The cookies feature a soft, cinnamon and nutmeg spiced dough enveloping a frozen cheesecake center, finished with a buttery spiced sugar coating for an irresistible fall treat.

Instructions

Make the Apple Cider Reduction: Pour the apple cider into a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium low heat. Let it simmer until reduced to 2 tablespoons, approximately 25-38 minutes depending on your stove. Stir frequently towards the end to avoid over-reduction. Allow the thick, sticky reduction to cool completely.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Line a small cookie sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, beat the cold cream cheese with sugar and vanilla on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy and smooth. Portion the mixture into sixteen 2-teaspoon dollops on the parchment and freeze until firm.
Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and white sugar on high speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
Incorporate Egg Yolks and Reduction: Add egg yolks, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction to the butter mixture. Mix on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until pale and fluffy, scraping down the sides and pressing any chunks of reduction into the butter as needed.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
Assemble Cookies: Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon scoop, portion out 16 balls of dough. Flatten each slightly and place one frozen cheesecake ball in the center. Wrap the dough completely around the cheesecake and roll gently into a smooth ball. Keep cheesecake balls frozen until use.
Bake Cookies: Arrange 6 cookie dough balls per baking sheet. Bake for 11-12 minutes, ideally 11 minutes 30 seconds, until edges are set. While still warm, press a round cookie cutter around each cookie for a perfect shape. Cool on the sheet for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Spiced Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Finish Cookies: Using a pastry brush, apply melted salted butter over the cooled cookies. Sprinkle generously with the spiced sugar blend, or gently roll the cookie sides in the mixture, taking care not to break the delicate cookies. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Watch the apple cider closely during reduction to avoid burning; it should be very thick but not burnt.
Freezing the cheesecake filling ensures it stays intact during baking.
Scrape down the bowl often during mixing to fully incorporate the sticky apple cider reduction.
Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and wrap around the cheesecake centers.
Use a cookie cutter to shape cookies immediately after baking for tidier appearance.
Handle the finished cookies gently, as they are soft and delicate.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert, Cookies
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American