Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough Layer:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Spread the flour onto a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes to ensure the flour is safe to eat (this removes any raw flour risks). Let it cool.
• In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
• Add the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until smooth.
• Gradually add the cooled flour mixture, mixing until combined. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.
• Roll the cookie dough into small balls (about 1-inch) and place them on a tray. Freeze the dough balls while you prepare the cheesecake.

2. Prepare the Crust:

• In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Set aside.

3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and creamy.
• Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Slowly pour in the heavy cream and mix until smooth.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Pour half of the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it into an even layer.
• Drop spoonfuls of the frozen cookie dough balls onto the cheesecake mixture.
• Pour the remaining cheesecake batter over the cookie dough layer, smoothing the top.
• Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is just set (it should still have a slight jiggle).
• Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour.

5. Chill:

• After cooling in the oven, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

6. Finish the Topping:

• Before serving, top the cheesecake with mini chocolate chips and additional cookie dough balls (optional) for extra texture and flavor.

This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake combines two of the best desserts in one, and the creamy cheesecake with bites of cookie dough throughout makes it absolutely irresistible! Enjoy! 🍪🍰