Decadent Cookie Dough Cheesecake: A Sweet Fusion of Favorites

Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp milk

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, beating until well combined.
  4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract and the sour cream until the mixture is smooth.
  5. In another bowl, combine mini chocolate chips, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the softened butter, 3/4 tsp of vanilla extract, and milk. Beat until well combined.
  6. Dollop spoonfuls of the cookie dough mixture into the cream cheese batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cookie dough into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
  7. Pour the batter over the crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly browned. Let the cheesecake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
  9. Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, then remove the sides of the pan. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use Oreo cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers for the crust.
  • Try using almond flour or crushed nuts as an alternative to all-purpose flour in the cookie dough.
  • Add a layer of fruit preserves or pie filling on top of the crust before pouring the cheesecake batter.
  • Swap the mini chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips.
  • Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the cookie dough for a chocolatey twist.
  • Include a teaspoon of flavored extract, such as almond or coconut, to enhance the cheesecake's flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
  • Make it vegan by using dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter, and vegan chocolate chips.
  • Add a layer of caramel or salted caramel sauce between the crust and cheesecake filling.
  • Include a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, in the cookie dough for added texture.
  • Create a fruit swirl by adding a few tablespoons of fruit puree (e.g., raspberry or strawberry) to the cheesecake filling and swirling it gently with a knife.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a heavenly combination of two classic desserts with this Cookie Dough Cheesecake recipe. Featuring a rich cream cheese filling marbled with sweet, homemade cookie dough, this dessert is nestled on a crispy graham cracker crust. The recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating this decadent dessert, from preparing the crust and the fillings to baking and serving. Making this dessert may require a bit of effort, but the result is well worth it - a creamy, dreamy cheesecake with delightful bits of cookie dough surprises in every bite. Perfect for special occasions or just when you're craving something sweet, this Cookie Dough Cheesecake is a recipe you'll want to make again and again.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust? Yes, you can use any type of cookie crumbs you prefer for the crust. Some popular alternatives include chocolate wafer cookies, Oreo cookies, or even shortbread cookies.
  2. Can I substitute the mini chocolate chips with regular-sized chocolate chips? Yes, you can use regular-sized chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips if you prefer. Keep in mind that the texture and distribution of chocolate in the cheesecake may be slightly different.
  3. Can I use a different pan size? You can use a different pan size, but the baking time may vary. For a different size, adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the cheesecake to ensure it is fully cooked.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, you can cover it and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days before serving.
  5. Can I freeze the cheesecake? Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowls - You'll need bowls of varying sizes to mix and combine ingredients.
  • Electric mixer - An electric mixer will make it easier to beat the cream cheese and incorporate air into the batter.
  • Spatula - A spatula is useful for scraping the sides of the bowl and smoothing the batter.
  • Springform pan - This type of pan has a removable bottom and sides, making it easier to release the cheesecake without damaging it.
  • Knife - You'll need a knife to cut through the crust and to swirl the cookie dough into the batter.
  • Wire rack - A wire rack allows the cheesecake to cool evenly after baking.
  • Refrigerator - You'll need a refrigerator to chill the cheesecake for several hours before serving.

Origin stories

While the exact origins of cookie dough cheesecake are unknown, it represents a delightful fusion of two beloved dessert traditions. The concept of cheesecake dates back thousands of years and is believed to have originated in ancient Greece, while edible cookie dough is a relatively recent treat that became popular in North America in the late 20th century. This decadent dessert captures the creamy, rich flavor of traditional cheesecake, with the unexpected twist of sweet, chocolate-chip-filled cookie dough swirled into the batter. It's a creative celebration of both old and new dessert traditions, and a perfect example of the culinary creativity that emerges when different food cultures intersect.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.