Cookie Dough Cheesecake is an indulgent and irresistible dessert that combines the beloved flavors of cookie dough and creamy cheesecake. This delectable treat features a graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy vanilla cheesecake layer studded with chunks of cookie dough, and is topped with a luscious chocolate ganache and vanilla whipped cream. The combination of cookie dough and cheesecake creates a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.

The history of Cookie Dough Cheesecake is rooted in the popularity of both cookie dough and cheesecake. The idea of combining raw cookie dough with other desserts has been around for a long time, as cookie dough itself is a beloved treat enjoyed by many. As for cheesecake, it has a long and varied history that dates back to ancient civilizations.

The modern version of cookie dough cheesecake, as we know it today, likely originated in the 20th century when home bakers started experimenting with new and creative dessert ideas. Combining the rich and creamy texture of cheesecake with the delightful chunks of cookie dough seemed like a match made in dessert heaven.

Over the years, various recipes and variations of cookie dough cheesecake have emerged, with each baker adding their own twists and personal touches. Today, this dessert can be found in bakeries, cafes, and restaurants around the world, delighting dessert enthusiasts with its unique and mouthwatering taste.

INGREDIENTS

Cookie Dough:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup plus 2 tbsp flour
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Crust:

• 1 1/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1/3 cup melted butter

Vanilla Cheesecake:

• 2 eight-ounce packages cream cheese
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whipping cream

Chocolate Ganache:

• 1/3 cup whipping cream
• 1 1/3 cups chocolate chips

Vanilla Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup whipping cream
• 3 rounded tbsp icing sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

Cookie Dough:

1. Cream together the butter, white sugar, and dark brown sugar until well combined.
2. Fold in the flour and salt until a dough forms, then mix in the chocolate chips.
3. Chill the cookie dough in the fridge for at least an hour.
4. Break off small nuggets of the chilled dough and set aside. Approximately 3/4 of these nuggets will be used in the cheesecake batter, while the remaining 1/4 will be used as a garnish.

Crust:

1. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lightly greased or parchment-lined 9-inch springform pan.

Vanilla Cheesecake:

1. Cream together the cream cheese and 2/3 cup of sugar until smooth.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and fold in 1/4 of the chilled cookie dough pieces.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and bake at 300 degrees F for 60 – 70 minutes.
5. The cheesecake is properly baked when the surface loses its shine and the edges slightly pull away from the pan.
6. Allow the cheesecake to cool thoroughly on a wire rack at room temperature before refrigerating.

Chocolate Ganache:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the whipping cream until it’s almost boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
3. Pour the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake in the pan and return it to the fridge to let the chocolate set.

Vanilla Whipped Cream:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the whipping cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until firm peaks form.
2. Use the vanilla whipped cream to garnish the edges of the cheesecake.

Assembly:

1. Once the cheesecake is fully cooled and the chocolate ganache is set, remove it from the springform pan.
2. Garnish the top of the cheesecake with the remaining cookie dough pieces.
3. Slice and serve this delightful Cookie Dough Cheesecake, savoring the perfect blend of cookie dough goodness and creamy cheesecake delight. Enjoy!