New York Cheesecake Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1 1/4 cups finely crushed graham crackers (1 sleeve)
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
04 - 115g unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
06 - 1 egg, separated

→ Filling

07 - 85g cream cheese, softened
08 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
09 - 2 teaspoons lemon zest
10 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
02 - In a large bowl, mix the finely crushed graham crackers, flour, and baking powder until well combined.
03 - In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer until fluffy. Add the egg white and beat until well incorporated.
04 - Add the butter mixture to the graham cracker mixture and blend until just combined. The dough may be slightly crumbly.
05 - In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
06 - Using a small ice cream scoop or measuring approximately 2 tablespoons of dough, place portions onto a nonstick or parchment-lined baking sheet.
07 - Flatten each dough ball slightly and press your thumb in the center to create an indentation for the filling.
08 - Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the center of each cookie.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12 minutes, until the filling is barely set and cookies are lightly golden.
10 - Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

# Notes:

01 - These cookies combine the flavors of classic New York cheesecake with the convenience of a handheld treat.