1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until combined.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Transfer the filling to a piping bag.

3. Shape the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, flatten them into circles.
3. Pipe a ring of cheesecake filling around the edge of each circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges.
5. Cut out the center of each cookie to create a donut shape.

4. Coat the Cookies

1. In a shallow dish, mix sugar and cinnamon.
2. Roll each cookie in the mixture until fully coated.

5. Bake the Cookies

1. Place cookies on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden and set.

6. Serve & Enjoy

• Let cookies cool slightly, then drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.