Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the fridge to chill while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Carrot Cake Cookie Dough Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Stir in the grated carrots, walnuts (if using), and raisins (if using).

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the carrot cake cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten it slightly with your hands or the back of a spoon. Scoop about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling and place it in the center of the flattened dough. Top with another tablespoon of cookie dough and gently press the edges together to seal the cheesecake inside the cookie dough. Place the filled cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden and the tops are set. Be careful not to overbake, as the cheesecake filling will continue to cook even after the cookies are removed from the oven. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Once cooled, these Carrot Cake Cheesecake Cookies are ready to be devoured! The spiced carrot cake flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake center for a decadent treat.