Every holiday season, I look forward to creating a dessert that feels festive, indulgent, and comforting all at once. This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake has quickly become one of my favorite recipes to make for family gatherings and holiday parties. I first discovered the idea of combining the soft, buttery flavor of classic sugar cookies with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling a few years ago, and it instantly became a holiday tradition in my home. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and just a hint of holiday magic that everyone looks forward to.
You will love this recipe because it combines two beloved treats—sugar cookies and cheesecake—into one show-stopping dessert. The crust is made from crumbled sugar cookies, giving it a delicate, slightly crisp base that perfectly complements the smooth, velvety cheesecake layer. The topping adds a touch of festive flair, whether you choose colorful sprinkles, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of chocolate. Every slice is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a centerpiece on any holiday dessert table.
This recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can prepare it as a whole cheesecake for a large gathering, or make individual mini cheesecakes for a charming, personalized touch. You can also adjust the sweetness or decoration to suit your personal taste or your guests’ preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday brunch, a family dinner, or a cookie swap, this cheesecake is sure to impress.
Another reason I love sharing this recipe is that it is surprisingly affordable. The ingredients are simple and easy to find in any grocery store, and you likely already have most of them in your pantry. You don’t need any special tools or fancy ingredients, yet the end result looks and tastes like it belongs in a high-end bakery.
Ingredients for this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake:
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Sugar cookies (for crust and decoration)
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Cream cheese
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Granulated sugar
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Eggs
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Vanilla extract
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Heavy cream or sour cream
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Butter
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Baking powder
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Sprinkles or other festive toppings
This combination of accessible ingredients and festive flair makes this cheesecake a must-try holiday recipe that brings warmth, joy, and sweetness to any celebration.
How to Prepare Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Preparing this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is easier than it looks, and following each step carefully will ensure a creamy, flavorful dessert that everyone will love. The process is divided into three main parts: making the crust, preparing the cheesecake filling, and assembling and decorating the cheesecake. By following these instructions, you’ll create a holiday treat that is both impressive and delicious.
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, gather your sugar cookies for the crust. You will need about 15–20 cookies. Place them in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the cookies in a large zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin.
Next, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Pour the melted butter into the cookie crumbs and mix until all the crumbs are evenly coated. The mixture should feel slightly moist but crumbly enough to hold together when pressed.
Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. Press the cookie crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to smooth it out. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, add 24 ounces of cream cheese that has been softened to room temperature. Beat it with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.
Next, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to prevent overbeating. Overmixing can cause cracks in your cheesecake, so it is important to combine gently. Then, add ½ cup of heavy cream or sour cream and beat on low until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled cookie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Lightly tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles. If desired, crumble a few sugar cookies on top for added texture and decoration.
Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 50–60 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center will slightly jiggle when you gently shake the pan. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 10 minutes to prevent cracking. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
Step 4: Chill and Decorate
Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set fully. Before serving, decorate the top with festive sprinkles, crushed sugar cookies, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. You can also add mini chocolate chips or white chocolate shavings for extra flair.
This recipe is quick and easy, and although it involves a few steps, each one is simple when followed carefully. It is highly customizable; you can substitute different toppings, add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal touch, or even swirl in a berry puree for extra flavor.
This cheesecake is popular with many people because it combines the familiar sweetness of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake. It is festive, visually appealing, and perfect for sharing at any holiday gathering. The combination of textures and flavors ensures that every slice is a hit, making it a recipe you will return to year after year.
Print🎄 Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake 🎄
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake combines the buttery flavor of sugar cookies with a creamy cheesecake filling, creating a festive dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. It is rich, flavorful, and visually appealing, making it a standout addition to any dessert table.
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 60
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
Ingredients
- 15–20 sugar cookies (for crust and decoration)
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- Sprinkles or additional crushed sugar cookies for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Crush sugar cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
- Mix cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
- Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
- Add heavy cream or sour cream and mix on low speed until smooth.
- Pour cheesecake filling over cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Optional: crumble a few sugar cookies on top for texture.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50–60 minutes until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off oven, leave cheesecake inside for 10 minutes, then cool at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Decorate with sprinkles, crushed cookies, or powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
Customize toppings for a personal touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is perfect for making a day or two in advance. After baking and cooling, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set perfectly.
Q: Can I use store-bought sugar cookies for the crust?
A: Absolutely! Using store-bought sugar cookies is convenient and works just as well as homemade ones. Just make sure they are finely crushed to form a firm crust.
Q: How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
A: Overmixing the batter can cause cracks. Mix the ingredients gently and avoid adding too much air. Baking at a lower temperature and letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven also helps prevent cracking.
Q: Can I make mini cheesecakes instead of one large cheesecake?
A: Yes, mini cheesecakes are a fun alternative. Use a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners and reduce the baking time to 20–25 minutes, checking for a slight jiggle in the center.
Q: Can I add extra flavorings?
A: Definitely. Vanilla is classic, but you can also add almond extract, citrus zest, or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the festive flavor. Sprinkles or crushed cookies on top add both color and texture.