Creating New York Cheesecake Cookies is simple and enjoyable when you follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Cream Cheese and Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
3. Add Sugar: Gradually incorporate the granulated sugar into the cream cheese mixture, mixing well until fully combined.
4. Add Egg and Flavorings: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
8. Scoop the Dough: Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, sprinkle the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.

By following these clear steps, you will create an alluring batch of New York Cheesecake Cookies that are sure to become a hit!