Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the egg yolk until smooth and well combined.

Chill the Filling: Place the cheesecake filling in the refrigerator while you prepare the cookie dough.

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Stir in Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips.

Assemble the Cookies:

Chill the Dough: Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Form the Cookies: Take about 1.5 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it in your palm. Add about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling in the center and fold the cookie dough around it to seal. Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.

Bake:

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.

Serve:

Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.