Fall is in the air, and you know what that means—apple cider everything! But let me introduce you to a new obsession: Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies. These soft, cinnamon-spiced stuffed cookies are filled with creamy cheesecake centers and dusted in a warm spiced sugar. They’re basically fall wrapped up in a cozy, edible hug.

Whether you’re juggling work, keeping up with the kids, or simply craving something sweet with your pumpkin spice latte, this recipe is your perfect go-to. It’s a little indulgent, a little fancy, but totally doable, even on a busy weeknight. Plus, if you’re the type who loves impressing at bake sales or family gatherings, these apple cider dessert gems will earn you all the compliments.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

They’re the ultimate stuffed cookies with a luscious cheesecake surprise inside.
Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of allspice—hello, fall flavors!
The apple cider reduction infuses every bite with a tangy-sweet depth.
Great for fall dessert tables, cozy nights in, or gifting to your favorite people.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Apple Cider Reduction:

2 cups apple cider

For the Cheesecake Filling:

6 oz cream cheese (cold)
3 tbsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cookies:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 egg yolks (room temp)
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp apple cider reduction

For the Spiced Sugar Topping:

1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
Pinch of ground allspice
1-2 tbsp melted salted butter

How to Make Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Reduce the Apple Cider: Simmer 2 cups of apple cider over medium-low heat until it thickens down to 2 tablespoons. Stir often in the last few minutes to avoid scorching. Cool completely.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cold cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy. Scoop into 16 small portions (about 2 tsp each) and freeze until solid.
Make the Cookie Dough: Whisk flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. In another bowl, cream the softened butter with brown and white sugars until fluffy. Add egg yolks, vanilla, and the cooled apple cider reduction. Slowly mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Chill the dough for 20 minutes.
Assemble & Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Scoop dough into 16 balls (1 1/2 tbsp each). Flatten each, place a frozen cheesecake filling in the center, and wrap dough around to seal. Roll into smooth balls. Bake 6 at a time for 11-12 minutes until edges are set.
Finishing Touch: While cookies are still warm, gently swirl a round cookie cutter around them to shape perfectly. Cool on the sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a rack. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle generously with spiced sugar.

Baking Tips & Tricks

The apple cider reduction is the magic ingredient—don’t rush it! A slow simmer brings out all that rich, tangy sweetness.
Keep the cheesecake filling cold. Freezing it makes stuffing the cookies so much easier (and less messy).
If the dough gets too sticky, lightly flour your hands when wrapping it around the filling.
Use a round cookie cutter trick right after baking for Instagram-worthy, perfectly shaped cookies.
Don’t skip the spiced sugar topping—it adds an extra cozy crunch that’s worth every sprinkle.

A Little Story From My Kitchen to Yours

These cookies were a happy accident during one of my weekend kitchen experiments. I was craving a stuffed cookie but also had a leftover jug of apple cider staring at me. One thing led to another, and bam! Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies were born. I made a batch for a casual Sunday family gathering, and let’s just say the platter was empty before dinner even started. Now, it’s a must-bake every fall, and my kids call them “hidden cheesecake pillows.” Honestly, can you blame them?

What to Serve with Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies are pure bliss with a steaming mug of spiced chai or a classic hot apple cider. Hosting a fall brunch? Pair them with a light arugula salad with candied pecans to balance the sweet. For dessert tables, they nestle perfectly between pumpkin pie bars and cinnamon rolls. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, sandwich two cookies around a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream—trust me, it’s worth it.

How to Store Your Cookies (If They Last That Long!)

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheesecake centers stay deliciously creamy, and the spiced sugar coating keeps its lovely texture. To enjoy them warm, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. You can also freeze them! Just arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slightly for that fresh-baked feel.

FAQs About Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies

Can I substitute apple juice for apple cider?

While apple juice can work in a pinch, apple cider has a richer, tangier flavor that really makes these cookies pop.

Can I make these stuffed cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and the cookie dough a day in advance. Assemble and bake when you’re ready.

Do I have to use the spiced sugar topping?

Technically, no. But it’s the crown jewel that gives these cookies that final fall dessert sparkle.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, a good 1:1 gluten-free baking blend should work well here.

Bake These Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies and Savour Fall in Every Bite

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are not just a fall dessert; they’re a cozy experience, stuffed with creamy cheesecake goodness and wrapped in a warmly spiced embrace. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or treating yourself on a quiet Sunday, these stuffed cookies bring comfort and joy with every bite. Go ahead, tie on that apron, and let your kitchen fill with the sweet scent of apple cider magic.

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