Funfetti Cheesecake Sandwich Cookies

Essential Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened) – Ensures a rich, buttery texture.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, room temperature) – Adds creaminess and tang.
• Light brown sugar (¾ cup) & white sugar (¾ cup) – A perfect blend for sweetness and chewiness.
• Salt (1 tsp), nutmeg (¼ tsp), cinnamon (¼ tsp) – Enhance the cookie’s depth of flavor.
• Egg (1 extra large, room temperature) – Provides structure and moisture.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp) & almond extract (¼ tsp) – Boosts the overall flavor.
• Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups, finely ground) – Gives a signature graham flavor.
• All-purpose flour (2 ¾ cups) – Forms the base of the dough.
• Cornstarch (2 tbsp) & baking powder (1 tsp) – Helps achieve a light and soft texture.
• Red, pink, and white sprinkles (½ cup) – Adds color and fun to every bite.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened) & cream cheese (8 oz, room temperature) – Creates a smooth, rich filling.
• Confectioners’ sugar (3 ½ cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp), almond extract (⅛ tsp), salt (⅛ tsp) – Enhances the cheesecake flavor.
• Lemon juice (1 tsp) & heavy cream (1 tbsp) – Adds a slight tang and creaminess.
• Red, pink, and white sprinkles (1 tbsp) – Gives the filling a festive touch.

Preparation Steps

Making the Cookies:

1. Mix the Dough – Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add both sugars, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon, then mix until combined. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients – Mix in graham cracker crumbs, then gradually add flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Fold in sprinkles.
3. Chill the Dough – Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. Roll & Cut – Roll dough to ⅛-inch thick and cut into heart shapes. Chill cutouts for 30 minutes before baking.
5. Bake the Cookies – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake cookies for 6-9 minutes until just set. Cool completely before assembling.

Making the Cheesecake Filling:

1. Whip the Butter & Cream Cheese – Beat until smooth.
2. Add Sweeteners & Flavorings – Gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, salt, almond extract, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Beat for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
3. Fold in Sprinkles – Gently mix to distribute sprinkles throughout the filling.

Assembling the Sandwich Cookies:

1. Pipe or Spread the Filling – Flip a cookie over and spread frosting evenly.
2. Sandwich & Press – Place another cookie on top and lightly press to adhere.
3. Chill Before Serving – Refrigerate assembled cookies to set the filling.

Health Benefits

• Source of calcium & protein – From cream cheese and butter.
• Perfect portion-controlled dessert – Great for special occasions.
• No artificial preservatives – Made from scratch with fresh ingredients.
• Energizing treat – A balance of carbs and fats for an indulgent bite.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a delightful dessert.
• Dust with extra powdered sugar or drizzle with white chocolate for an elegant touch.
• Add themed sprinkles to match holidays or celebrations.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Twist – Add mini chocolate chips to the dough or filling.
• Berry Infusion – Add freeze-dried strawberries to the filling for a fruity touch.
• Nutty Crunch – Mix in finely chopped almonds or pecans for extra texture.
• Citrus Burst – Increase the lemon juice and zest for a tangier flavor.
• Holiday Edition – Swap sprinkles for seasonal colors like red & green for Christmas or orange & black for Halloween.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for later – Freeze cookies before filling for up to 3 months. Thaw and fill when ready.
• Keep the filling fresh – Refrigerate extra filling separately and re-whip before using.

Pro Tips

• Don’t skip the chill time – It helps keep the cookies firm and easy to cut.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensures even mixing and smooth texture.
• Roll dough evenly – Helps cookies bake uniformly.
• Let cookies cool completely before filling – Prevents the filling from melting.
• Use a piping bag for a clean, professional look when adding the cheesecake filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be made 1-2 days in advance, and the cookies can be stored before assembling.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and all-purpose gluten-free flour.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use different shapes?

Absolutely! Use any cookie cutter shapes for different themes and occasions.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling prevents spreading, making the cookies easier to cut and ensuring a soft yet sturdy texture.

These Funfetti Cheesecake Sandwich Cookies are the ultimate festive, fun, and flavorful treat! Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies bring joy with every bite!

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