Start by pouring 2 cups of 100% pure apple cider into a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it reduce for about 25 to 38 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cider is ready when it thickens to just about 2 tablespoons, creating a rich concentrate. Once reduced, remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before using it in your cookie recipe.

In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of cream cheese, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Scoop out small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze these dollops for at least 30 minutes until they are firm to the touch.

In a separate mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ½ teaspoon allspice, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with ½ cup of brown sugar and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in 2 egg yolks, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin forming the cookies by scooping out about a tablespoon of chilled dough. Flatten it slightly in your palms, place one of the frozen cheesecake dollops in the center, and wrap the dough around it completely. Roll it gently into a ball. Place the assembled cookies on a lined baking sheet, keeping them spaced apart, and return them to the freezer until you're ready to bake.

Bake the cookies for 11-12 minutes. The edges will look set, while the centers will remain slightly soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Brush each warm cookie with melted butter. Sprinkle them with the spiced sugar mixture, adding a lovely sweetness to each bite.