1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

2️⃣ Prepare the cookie dough:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Beat in the vanilla extract, egg, and egg yolk until fully incorporated.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.

3️⃣ Make the cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Chill for a few minutes if the mixture becomes too soft.

4️⃣ Assemble the cookies:

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll into a ball. Flatten slightly and make an indentation in the center.

Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling into the indentation.

Take a smaller piece of cookie dough and cover the filling, sealing the edges to enclose the cheesecake completely. Roll gently to form a smooth ball.

5️⃣ Bake: Place the stuffed cookie balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will still appear soft but will firm up as they cool.

6️⃣ Cool and serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.