Black Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that screams Halloween, look no further than these Black Velvet Cheesecake Cookies! They are wonderfully rich and have a dark chocolate flavor that will transport you to cookie heaven. Each bite reveals a creamy cheesecake filling that balances the cookie’s sweetness perfectly. Trust me, these cookies are not just for spooky season; they make a fantastic dessert for family gatherings or cozy movie nights too!

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet impressive. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or make it ahead of time for that upcoming Halloween party. Plus, the kids will adore them! Who wouldn’t want a cookie that tastes like an Oreo but even better?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and creamy cheesecake is truly irresistible.
• Fun to Make: Rolling the cookies in black cocoa sugar adds an extra fun element to baking!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 cookies in one batch, there’s plenty to share with friends and family.
• Easily Customizable: You can change up the filling or toppings based on your taste preferences.
• Great for Any Occasion: While they shine during Halloween, these cookies are perfect for any festive gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baking these Black Velvet Cheesecake Cookies requires just a few simple and wholesome ingredients. You’ll find everything here easy to work with, making your baking experience enjoyable!

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
• 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 tsp (3 g) black cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups (188 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 cup (40 g) black cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 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
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Some Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cookie dough can add warmth and depth.
• Mix in Some Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey kick, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the dough.
• Try Different Fillings: Swap out the cheesecake filling for flavored creams like raspberry or lemon for a fruity twist.
• Make Them Mini: Shape smaller cookies for bite-sized treats perfect for parties!

How to Make Black Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Start by blending together your cold cream cheese, granulated white sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because a well-mixed filling makes for a delightful surprise when you bite into your cookie!

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a separate bowl, combine your dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, both types of cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter with light brown sugar and granulated white sugar until fluffy. Then add in your egg yolks and vanilla. Mixing these ingredients creates a soft dough that’s rich in flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Gently fold the dry mixture into your butter mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want your cookies to stay soft! Next, take about two tablespoons of dough, flatten it slightly in your hand, place about a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center, and wrap it up into a ball.

Step 4: Roll in Cocoa Sugar

Roll each filled cookie ball in black cocoa sugar before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and gives the cookies their signature look.

Step 5: Bake & Enjoy!

Bake your cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they’re set but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying! These Black Velvet Cheesecake Cookies are sure to become your new favorite treat!

Pro Tips for Making Black Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you keep these handy tips in mind!

• Chill the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is cold before mixing. This helps create a denser cheesecake filling that holds its shape when baked.
• Use Room Temperature Egg Yolks: Bringing your egg yolks to room temperature allows them to blend more easily into the dough, resulting in a smoother cookie texture.
• Sift Your Cocoa Powder: Sifting your black cocoa powder can eliminate any lumps and ensures an even distribution throughout the cookies, enhancing the rich chocolate flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined will prevent your cookies from becoming tough. Aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough for best results.
• Experiment with Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be set around the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.

How to Serve Black Velvet Cheesecake Cookies

These black velvet cheesecake cookies are not only delicious but also visually striking! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine during spooky season.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and contrast against the dark cookies.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate can enhance the visual appeal while complementing the rich flavors of the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: This warm, spiced drink pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate flavor of the cookies, making for a cozy autumn treat.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the dense texture of the cookies and balances out their sweetness.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each cookie or serving it on the side adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries brightens up your plate and provides a tart contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

Enjoy these black velvet cheesecake cookies as a special treat this Halloween season, and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These black velvet cheesecake cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy these treats whenever the craving strikes. Let’s dive into the best ways to store and preserve them.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container.
• Keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them; they will stay good for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For the best texture, reheat cookies from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• If thawed, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.

FAQs

You may have some questions about making these black velvet cheesecake cookies. Here are answers to some common queries!

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for black velvet cheesecake cookies?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese! However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making it a bit less creamy compared to full-fat cream cheese.

How do I know when my black velvet cheesecake cookies are done baking?

The edges should be set and look slightly crinkled while the centers may still look soft. They will continue to firm up after cooling.

Can I customize the filling of my black velvet cheesecake cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips or mix in some crushed Oreos into the cheesecake filling for extra flavor and texture.

What should I serve with black velvet cheesecake cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee! They also make great additions to a dessert platter during Halloween gatherings.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these black velvet cheesecake cookies as much as I do! They’re not only stunning but also incredibly delicious—a true showstopper for any gathering or just a cozy night in. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!