Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups All-purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 Large Egg
- 1 tablespoon Milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 1/4 cups Powdered Sugar
- 5-6 tablespoons Mini Chocolate Chips
Directions:
- Prepare the Dry Mix: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Cheese: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the softened butter and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined.
- Combine with Sugar: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, continuing to blend until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Form the Dough: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well incorporated. Stir in the mini chocolate chips. Refrigerate the dough for about an hour to allow it to firm up.
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape the Cookies: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and shape it into 24-26 balls. Place the dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart. Slightly flatten each ball with your hand.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For extra indulgence, sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top of each cookie.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are just starting to turn golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies!
Tips and Variations:
- Chocolate Varieties: Substitute mini chocolate chips with white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, or even chocolate chunks for a different flavor.
- Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the dough for a crunchy texture.
- Flavor Enhancements: A dash of almond extract can add a delightful twist to the cookies.
- Decoration: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decorative and tasty finish.
How to Store:
- At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: To extend their shelf life, place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
A: Powdered sugar helps achieve a lighter, softer texture in these cookies. Using regular sugar may alter the texture and sweetness.
Q: How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
A: Chilling the dough is crucial. Ensure the dough is firm before baking, and consider chilling the baking sheets as well.
Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
Q: Why are my cookies too dense?
A: Ensure you are not overmixing the dough, as this can result in dense cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Enjoy baking and indulging in these delightful Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies!