Name: Lemon Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 Tablespoons (6 oz) cream cheese, softened regular or vegan; 4½ Tablespoons powdered sugar; 1½ Tablespoon lemon zest; 1½ teaspoon lemon juice; 1 cup butter, softened; ¾ cup white sugar; ¼ cup light brown sugar; 2½ Tablespoons lemon zest; 1 egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ Tablespoon lemon juice; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2¾ cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup chopped or crushed graham crackers

Looking for a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion? These Lemon Cheesecake Cookies are the answer! With a tangy lemon cheesecake filling sandwiched between two soft lemon cookies, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of creamy cheesecake filling and zesty lemon cookies creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
These cookies are easy to make and require simple ingredients, making them perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
They are great for meal prep and can be stored for a few days, allowing you to enjoy them whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Ingredient Notes:

Lemon Cheesecake Filling: Cream cheese adds a creamy texture, while powdered sugar and lemon zest provide sweetness and tanginess. For a vegan option, use vegan cream cheese.
Lemon Cookies: Butter, sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice create a soft and flavorful cookie base. All-purpose flour gives structure, and graham crackers add a crunchy topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
Cream together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add lemon zest, egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, salt, and baking soda.
Gradually add flour to form a dough. Roll into balls, flatten, and spoon cream cheese filling on top.
Top with crushed graham crackers and bake until golden brown.

Helpful Tips:

Chill the dough before baking for a thicker cookie.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Swap lemon zest for other citrus fruits like orange or lime for a different flavor profile.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother texture.
Don’t overmix the dough to prevent tough cookies.
Experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate ganache for variety.

Serving Suggestions:

These Lemon Cheesecake Cookies pair well with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve them as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store leftover cookies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm and gooey.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can freeze the dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
How can I prevent the filling from leaking out? Make sure to seal the edges of the cookies well before baking to prevent leakage.

Conclusion:

Get ready to indulge in these delightful Lemon Cheesecake Cookies that are bursting with flavor and creamy goodness. Try this recipe today and share your feedback with us!