White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

If you love festive treats that combine creamy richness with a burst of refreshing mint, then you simply must try these White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies. This delightful recipe brings together the smoothness of cheesecake, the sweetness of white chocolate, and the cool sparkle of peppermint in every bite. Imagine biting into a tender cookie that hides a luscious cream cheese center, topped with a drizzle of white chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies to finish. These cookies are perfect to share at holiday gatherings or to enjoy snuggled up with a warm drink on a chilly day. Once you try White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies, they’ll quickly become a beloved seasonal favorite in your cookie collection.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, and with this recipe, you’ll find everything is simple yet essential to create the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Each component plays a vital role, from the buttery base to the creamy cheesecake filling and the festive peppermint crunch on top.

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, tender texture as the cookie base.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with browning for that perfect golden edge.
• 1 egg: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture to keep the cookies soft.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the cookie structure, giving it just the right bite.
• ½ tsp baking powder: Adds a gentle lift for a soft, light texture.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and highlights flavors.
• ½ cup white chocolate chips, melted: Drizzled on top for creamy, sweet decadence that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
• Crushed peppermint candies (for topping): Adds a refreshing crunch and holiday flair.
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened (for filling): The star of the cheesecake center, giving a smooth, tangy surprise inside each cookie.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for filling): Sweetens the cheesecake filling without graininess.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (for filling): Provides a subtle depth and complements the cream cheese perfectly.

How to Make White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Start by combining the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This luscious cheesecake filling is what sets these cookies apart. Scoop the mixture into teaspoon-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze these cheesecake centers for about 30 minutes so they’re firm and ready to be wrapped in cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

While the cheesecake centers are chilling, it’s time to create the perfect cookie dough. Begin by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—this step is crucial for tender cookies. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.

Step 3: Combine Dough and Form Cookies

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything holds together. The dough will be soft but manageable. Now, scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center, then carefully mold the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. This outer shell will bake into a tender cookie that encases the creamy cheesecake inside.

Step 4: Chill the Dough Balls

Before baking, it’s important to chill these dough-wrapped cheesecake balls for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, preventing it from spreading too much during baking and keeps the cheesecake filling perfectly contained.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Arrange the chilled cookie balls on a lined baking sheet, spaced comfortably apart. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or just until the edges start to turn a light golden color. Be careful not to overbake, as you want soft, tender cookies with a creamy center.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Once the cookies have cooled slightly, drizzle the melted white chocolate chips over the tops. While the drizzle is still soft, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive, minty crunch. These finishing touches make the White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies not only delicious but visually irresistible.

How to Serve White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies

Garnishes

To amplify the holiday spirit, consider adding extra crushed peppermint sprinkles or a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. A small dollop of whipped cream on the side can also complement the creamy cheesecake filling perfectly.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa, allowing their peppermint essence to truly shine. If you want to serve them as part of a dessert spread, offer a simple vanilla ice cream to accompany the cookies for an indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive occasions, arrange the White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies on a decorative holiday platter lined with evergreen sprigs or holiday ornaments. You can also stack them in a clear jar tied with a red ribbon for an elegant gift idea. Serving them warm with a glass of cold milk is another crowd-pleaser that invites cozy nostalgia.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their tender texture and creamy filling. Make sure the container is sealed well to prevent any peppermint or chocolate scents from mixing with other foods.

Freezing

White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Stored this way, they’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or gently warm in a low oven.

Reheating

To bring the cookies back to that delightful freshly baked warmth, pop them in a 300°F (149°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which may make the cheesecake center too soft and the cookie edges tough.

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese that’s not softened?

Softened cream cheese is essential here because it mixes smoothly with the powdered sugar and vanilla, creating a silky filling. Using cold cream cheese will result in lumps and make it difficult to portion the filling evenly.

How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking out?

Chilling the cheesecake balls and the assembled dough balls before baking is key. This firms everything up and helps seal the filling inside while the cookie bakes, preventing leaks and maintaining that beautiful creamy center.

Can I substitute peppermint candies with something else?

While crushed peppermint candies provide a lovely crunch and minty flavor, you can also try finely chopped candy canes or even peppermint extract in the dough for added mint flavor. Just be cautious with extract as it can be potent.

Are these cookies suitable for making ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and dough in advance, assemble the cookies, and freeze them before baking. This makes for a stress-free holiday treat that you can enjoy fresh whenever you’re ready.

What is the best way to melt white chocolate chips for the drizzle?

The best method is to melt them gently in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval. This prevents overheating and keeps the chocolate smooth and glossy for drizzling.

Final Thoughts

White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies are everything you want in a holiday sweet treat: creamy, minty, and irresistibly festive. Whether you’re baking them for a gathering or as a special gift, these cookies never fail to bring joy and smiles. I encourage you to whip up a batch of these magical cookies and savor the cozy, bright flavors that only White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies can deliver.