To create these delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Cheesecake Cookies, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5. Incorporate Flavor: Add the lemon zest, poppy seeds, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until well combined.

6. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

7. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.

8. Form Cookies: Scoop a tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in the palm of your hand. Place about a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center, then wrap the cookie dough around the filling, ensuring it is completely enclosed.

9. Place on Baking Sheet: Set the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.

10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are slightly golden around the edges.

11. Cool Cookies: Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

12. Enjoy: Once cooled, your cookies are ready to be enjoyed!