Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for dough)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup thick caramel sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes until firm.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough, flatten slightly, place frozen filling in center, and wrap dough around it, sealing completely.
- Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart.
- Bake 11–13 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers remain soft.
- Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over cooled cookies and sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Notes
- Freeze filling thoroughly to prevent leaking during baking.
- Seal dough completely around filling to keep center intact.
- Store in refrigerator due to cream cheese filling.
- Use thick caramel sauce for best results.
- Do not overbake to maintain soft texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg