If you have a sweet spot for both cheesecake and cookie dough, the Cheesecake Cookie Dough Pull-Apart Cake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This irresistible dessert combines soft, buttery cookie dough loaded with chocolate chips with luscious, creamy cheesecake layers all baked together into a pull-apart cake you’ll want to savor piece by gooey piece. Imagine that perfect balance of textures and flavors unfolding in every bite, creating a dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake brings all the warmth and indulgence of your favorite comforts in one spectacularly shareable dish.

Cheesecake Cookie Dough Pull-Apart Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the rich flavors and textures of this cake. From the buttery cookie dough base to the smooth cheesecake filling and the cinnamon-sugary topping, every element harmonizes to create magic in your oven.

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Provides creamy richness and tenderness to the cookie dough.
Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to the dough.
Vanilla Extract (2 1/2 teaspoons total): Enhances the flavor, bringing warmth and sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups plus 1 tablespoon): Gives structure to the dough and cheesecake filling.
Baking Soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookie dough rise lightly and stay soft.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and boosts all the other flavors.
Mini Chocolate Chips (1 cup): The perfect melty pockets of chocolate that make every bite delightful.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates the rich, tangy filling that feels heavenly when baked between cookie dough layers.
Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling without grit.
Egg (1): Binds the cheesecake filling for a smooth, custardy texture.
Melted Butter (2 tablespoons for topping): Adds a buttery glaze finishing touch to the cake.
Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon for topping): Gives a caramelized crust when baked.
Ground Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a hint of spice in the topping.

How to Make Cheesecake Cookie Dough Pull-Apart Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or bundt pan thoroughly so your cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly shaped, ready to impress.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

Grab a large bowl and beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until wonderfully creamy — this is the base for that soft, chewy texture we’re after. Blend in vanilla extract for added sweetness, then gently add the flour, baking soda, and salt to form a soft dough. Don’t forget the mini chocolate chips, stirring them in ensures bursts of chocolate charm in every chunk.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, beat your softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and luscious. Adding the vanilla, egg, and a bit of flour will give your filling that creamy yet stable structure, perfect for layering between cookie dough discs.

Step 4: Assemble the Pull-Apart Layers

Now comes the fun part. Take spoonfuls of cookie dough and gently flatten them into discs. Start layering these discs in your prepared pan, alternating with generous spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture. Keep layering until the pan is generously filled, creating pockets of creamy cheesecake nestled within the cookie dough.

Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Brown Sugar Topping

Mix melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then drizzle this sugary, buttery mixture over the top of your cake assembly. This will bake into a golden, slightly crunchy finish that complements the soft inner layers beautifully.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If you notice the top browning too fast, simply cover loosely with foil and continue baking to avoid burning.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow your cake to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes to let the layers set slightly but still remain wonderfully gooey. Then, pull apart pieces of this decadent treat and relish the heavenly mix of cheesecake and cookie dough melting together.

How to Serve Cheesecake Cookie Dough Pull-Apart Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or add a drizzle of melted chocolate before serving. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries can bring a bright contrast and a pop of color to your plate.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or rich milk pairs perfectly to balance out the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve pull-apart feast, or place it on a tiered cake stand at your next gathering so everyone can easily grab and share pieces. It’s a conversation starter and a crowd-pleaser all in one!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any cake left (which is honestly unlikely!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheesecake filling needs to stay chilled, and this will keep your cake fresh and moist for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake comfortably by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. This way, the layers will retain their texture without turning soggy.

Reheating

For the best result, warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will bring back that gooey, melty feel as if it just came out of the oven, making every bite just as delightful as the first.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips work just fine, though mini chips distribute more evenly and melt quicker, giving a smoother bite.

Is the cheesecake filling safe to eat if not baked fully?

The filling contains egg, so it’s important to bake the cake fully as directed to ensure it’s safe to eat and sets properly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup, but results may vary slightly in texture.

What’s the best pan to use for this recipe?

A 9-inch round cake pan or bundt pan works wonderfully, but ensure it’s greased well to prevent sticking and allow easy pull-apart action.

How sweet is this cake? Should I adjust sugar levels?

This cake has a balanced sweetness due to the combination of brown sugars and cheesecake tang, but if you prefer it less sweet, you can slightly reduce the brown sugar in the dough.

Final Thoughts

Making the Cheesecake Cookie Dough Pull-Apart Cake Recipe is like giving yourself a warm hug in dessert form. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing treat that invites sharing and savouring every bite of ooey-gooey goodness. If you’re looking for a unique twist on classic flavors with unlimited comfort and joy, this recipe is your new go-to. Trust me, once you pull apart that first piece, you’ll be hooked!