Apple Pie Cheesecake Cookies – Soft, Creamy, and Filled With Fall Flavor

There’s something magical about desserts that combine two classics into one irresistible treat, and these apple pie cheesecake cookies do exactly that. They capture everything we love about warm apple pie—tender spiced apples, cozy cinnamon aromas, and buttery sweetness—then tuck it all inside a soft cookie wrapped around a creamy cheesecake center. One bite and you get the comfort of a fall pie, the indulgence of cheesecake, and the handheld ease of a bakery-style cookie.

These cookies are the kind that make your kitchen smell incredible while they bake. Apples gently soften on the stovetop with brown sugar and spice, filling the air with that unmistakable apple pie warmth. Meanwhile, cream cheese gets lightly sweetened and chilled so it stays luscious and creamy once baked. When everything comes together, each cookie becomes a little package of surprise—soft on the outside, rich and creamy on the inside.

Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday cookie trays, or just a cozy afternoon treat with coffee, these apple pie cheesecake cookies feel special without being overly complicated. They look impressive, taste indulgent, and yet are completely doable for home bakers. If you love desserts that feel nostalgic but a little elevated, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your baking rotation.

Ingredients:

For the Apple Pie Filling:

• Fresh apples, peeled and finely diced
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch
• Water

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract

For the Cookie Dough:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat until apples are soft and mixture thickens. Remove from heat and cool completely.
2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Scoop small teaspoon-sized portions onto a lined baking sheet and freeze until firm.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
6. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
7. Scoop cookie dough and flatten slightly in your hand. Place a frozen cheesecake portion and a small spoonful of apple filling in the center.
8. Carefully wrap the dough around the filling, sealing completely, and roll gently into a ball.
9. Place cookies on a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
10. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes, until edges are set and tops are lightly golden.
11. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips & Tricks

• Finely dice the apples so they cook evenly and fit easily inside the cookies.
• Keep cheesecake filling frozen until ready to assemble for easier stuffing.
• Do not overbake; the cookies will continue to set as they cool.

Variations

• Use apple pie spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Add a drizzle of caramel on top for extra indulgence.
• Swap apples for pears for a twist on the classic flavor.

Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies slightly warm for the best cheesecake texture. They pair beautifully with coffee, chai, or hot apple cider.

Storage Information
Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let come to room temperature before serving.

FAQ

• Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, freeze baked cookies up to 2 months.
• Can I make the filling ahead? Absolutely—both apple and cheesecake fillings can be prepared a day in advance.

History / Fun Facts
Apple pie has long been a symbol of comfort baking, while cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece. Combining them into a cookie is a modern twist that brings the best of both worlds together.