Cheesecake Filled Chocolate Walnut Thumbprint Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies combine three irresistible textures crisp walnut coating, tender chocolate base, and smooth cheesecake filling. They’re decadent yet balanced, making them ideal for holiday trays, special gatherings, or just an indulgent coffee break treat.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup finely chopped walnuts

For the Cheesecake Filling:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish (Optional):
Melted dark or milk chocolate for drizzling
Extra chopped walnuts for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the finely chopped walnuts, pressing lightly so they stick.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, press an indentation into the center of each ball.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until set. Remove from oven and gently re-press the indentations if needed. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
8. While cookies cool, prepare the filling: In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
9. Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into the cooled cookie centers.
10. Garnish with a drizzle of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of extra chopped walnuts if desired. Let set before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 20 cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Cool & fill time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Nut-free version: Skip the walnut coating or replace with crushed pretzels or cookie crumbs.
• Citrus twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a fresh flavor contrast.
• Spiced chocolate: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder into the dough for extra depth.
• Berry cheesecake: Top the cheesecake filling with a dab of fruit jam before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. Cookies can be frozen (unfilled) for up to 2 months thaw before adding cheesecake filling.

FAQs

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the cheesecake filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

Not for this recipe, but chilling can help the cookies keep their shape if your kitchen is warm.

Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?

Yes pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all work well.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I skip the chocolate drizzle?

Absolutely the cookies are still delicious without it.

Will the filling set firmly?

It will remain soft and creamy, more like cheesecake than frosting.

Can I make these without a mixer?

Yes cream the butter and sugar thoroughly with a sturdy spoon, though it takes more effort.

How do I keep the cookies from cracking?

Roll the dough balls smoothly and press indentations gently before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes just bake in batches.

Can I freeze the filled cookies?

It’s best to freeze them unfilled. The cheesecake center can change texture after freezing.

Conclusion

These Cheesecake Filled Chocolate Walnut Thumbprint Cookies are a decadent, bakery-worthy treat you can make at home. With their nutty crunch, rich chocolate base, and creamy cheesecake center, they’re sure to be the star of any dessert spread.

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