Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add 2 large eggs to the bowl, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, mix together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Assemble the Cookies

Scoop a tablespoon of the cookie dough and flatten it slightly. Add a teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center, then cover with a bit more dough, sealing the edges carefully.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Place the assembled cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before savoring the delightful creamy, chocolatey goodness!