1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 tsp of vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

2. Make the Cookie Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips.

3. Assemble the Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop 1½ tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly. Place a small spoonful of the chilled cheesecake filling in the center, then top with another scoop of cookie dough. Seal the edges to fully enclose the filling.
3. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

4. Bake the Cookies:

1. Bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
2. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.