Advertisement
As holiday lights twinkle, I can’t help but crave desserts that wrap nostalgia in a warm embrace. Enter the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, a delightful blend of a buttery sugar cookie crust and creamy cheesecake that feels like a festive hug on a plate. This recipe not only brings joy to holiday gatherings but also allows for fun variations, whether you want to go gluten-free or vegan. With its rich vanilla notes and playful sprinkles, it’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for those who love homemade treats. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making your holiday baking stress-free and enjoyable. Are you ready to create a dessert that will have friends and family raving?
Why is Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Unforgettable?
Nostalgia in Every Bite: This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake captures the essence of childhood holiday memories with its buttery crust and creamy filling.
Versatile and Adaptable: Easily modify the recipe for gluten-free or vegan diets without sacrificing flavor, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Advertisement
Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can impress guests with this showstopper dessert.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Its rich vanilla flavor and playful sprinkles make it a guaranteed hit at any festive gathering or potluck.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this cheesecake in advance, allowing it to chill and develop its flavors, thus reducing stress during holiday preparations.
Elevate your dessert table with this delightful creation and check out my Chocolate Chip Cheesecake for another irresistible treat!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Ingredients
• Get ready to create a holiday sensation!
For the Crust and Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – A key structure for the crust and cookie dough. Substitution: Can swap with a gluten-free blend with xanthan gum.
- Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the crust rise perfectly.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Unsalted butter – Brings richness and moisture; Note: Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar – Adds delightful sweetness to both crust and filling; Substitution: Can replace with monk fruit or erythritol for a low-sugar option.
- Pure vanilla extract – Infuses flavor; Substitution: Use vanilla bean paste for an even richer taste.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients and contributes to a creamy texture; Note: Use room temperature eggs for optimal mixing.
- Christmas sprinkles (jimmies) – Adds festive decoration and an extra touch of flavor to both the crust and dough.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream cheese – Acts as the creamy base for the cheesecake filling. Substitution: Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Sour cream/Greek yogurt – Brings tanginess and creaminess to the filling; Note: Ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Heavy cream – Adds richness to the cheesecake; Substitution: Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
- White chocolate chips – Essential for creating the luscious ganache topping; Substitution: Use dairy-free white chocolate for vegan adaptations.
- Milk – Keeps the cookie dough balls moist; Substitution: Dairy-free milk alternatives can work just as well.
Embrace the delightful journey of baking this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake and watch as it lightens up your holiday gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven warms, prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will help release your beautiful Sugar Cookie Cheesecake once it’s baked. Set the prepared pan aside as you mix the ingredients.
Step 2: Sugar Cookie Crust
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, cream ¾ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter with 1 cup of regenerative organic cane sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Next, beat in 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract. Gradually combine the dry ingredients and gently fold in ½ cup of Christmas sprinkles before pressing the dough into the prepared pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden; then set aside to cool completely.
Step 3: Cookie Dough Balls
In a separate bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter and ¾ cup of regenerative organic cane sugar until smooth. Mix in 2 tablespoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt, folding in ¼ cup of sprinkles as you go. Once the dough is mixed, shape it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the cookie dough balls in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes until firm.
Step 4: Cheesecake Filling
To make the filling, using a mixer, beat 16 oz of room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ¾ cup of cane sugar, followed by ½ cup of sour cream and 1 cup of heavy cream, continuing to blend until well incorporated. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 3 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully blended before adding the next. Finally, gently fold in the chilled cookie dough balls, combining them evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Bake Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled sugar cookie crust in the springform pan. To prevent cracking, wrap the bottom of the pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking dish filled with hot water (a water bath). Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the center jiggles slightly when shaken. After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door to let the cheesecake cool gently for about an hour before transferring it to the refrigerator.
Step 6: Ganache and Decorate
While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the white chocolate ganache. Heat ½ cup of heavy cream in a saucepan just until it simmers, then pour it over 1 cup of white chocolate chips in a bowl. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Once the cheesecake has chilled for at least 6 hours or overnight, pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to drip beautifully down the sides. Decorate with more cookie dough balls and additional sprinkles for a festive touch.
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your unique twist on this delightful dessert and make it your own!
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend with xanthan gum to maintain that fabulous texture.
- Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy cream, creating a plant-based version that everyone can enjoy.
- Low-Sugar: Replace the cane sugar with monk fruit or erythritol for a lower-sugar alternative that still tastes sweet.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of sprinkles, melt bittersweet chocolate and drizzle it on top for an extra indulgent touch.
- Seasonal Swaps: Use seasonal sprinkles or edible flowers, making it festive for any holiday or occasion.
As you explore variations, you might also enjoy making these treats: an irresistible Chocolate Chip Cheesecake or a delightful Lemon Raspberry Cookie. Continue to tailor this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake to suit your palate and celebrate those cherished moments!
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Cookie Cheesecake delights are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the crust and cookie dough balls up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. Refrigerate the crust to keep it firm and chill the dough balls until you’re ready to use them, preventing them from becoming too soft. When you’re set to make the cheesecake, combine the filling ingredients and bake as directed. After cooling, you can also make the ganache and pour it over the chilled cheesecake on the day of serving for the best taste and presentation. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy products are at room temperature; this helps create a smooth batter without lumps.
Water Bath Magic: Don’t skip the water bath! It prevents the cheesecake from cracking, resulting in a beautifully smooth finish.
Gentle Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool in the turned-off oven with the door cracked; this minimizes the risk of cracks forming on the surface.
Hot Knife Slicing: For clean, professional slices after chilling, dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and cut through the cheesecake.
Chill Time Matters: Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight or for at least 6 hours; this enhances the flavors and ensures it sets perfectly.
What to Serve with Festive Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Indulge in a delightful holiday feast by pairing this creamy dessert with complementary dishes that enhance its festive flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture balances the sweetness of the cheesecake, providing a comforting contrast on the plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized edges add a savory depth to your meal, making each bite of the cheesecake taste even more decadent.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of freshness brightens the palate, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy cheesecake.
- Peppermint Hot Cocoa: This cozy drink infuses a sweet mint flavor that harmonizes perfectly, making it a festive beverage choice for celebrations.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Their chocolatey richness paired with the tartness of the berries creates an irresistible combination alongside the sweet cheesecake.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage brings seasonal spices that enhance the dessert’s flavors while creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
- Gingerbread Cookies: These treats add a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the cheesecake’s creamy consistency, evoking classic holiday vibes.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop alongside the cheesecake complements its rich flavors and adds a delightful chill you won’t forget.
Let these pairings elevate your holiday dessert experience and create cherished memories with loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Fridge: Store uncut cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wait to add ganache until the day of serving to maintain its shine.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer it to the fridge for 24 hours to thaw slowly, maintaining its creamy texture.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; serve cold for the best taste experience! Enjoy this delicious Sugar Cookie Cheesecake at your next gathering!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What type of flour can I use for this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Absolutely! You can use all-purpose flour for a classic taste, but if you need a gluten-free option, swap it for a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum—this helps replicate the texture and structure of traditional flour.
How should I store leftovers of the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
To keep your cheesecake fresh, store uncut slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I recommend waiting to add the ganache until the day you plan to serve it to maintain that glossy finish.
Can I freeze Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Yes! Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge and allow it to thaw for 24 hours.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry! This can happen, especially if the oven temperature is too high or if it cools too quickly. Always use a water bath during baking to create a gentle heat environment. Additionally, let it cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This can help minimize those pesky cracks.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Definitely! You can easily adapt this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake to be dairy-free. Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips for the ganache. Everyone can enjoy this scrumptious dessert without worry!
How can I tell when the cheesecake is done baking?
Very! The cheesecake is done when the center jiggles slightly but is not wet. Use a toothpick to check the edges—if it comes out clean but the center remains slightly soft, it’s ready! It will firm up as it cools.
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake That's a Holiday Showstopper
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients. Fold in Christmas sprinkles and press the dough into the prepared pan. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and cool completely.
- Cream together unsalted butter and cane sugar. Mix in milk and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour and salt, folding in sprinkles. Shape into balls and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in sugar, sour cream, and heavy cream. Add vanilla and eggs one at a time, blending fully. Fold in chilled cookie dough balls.
- Pour the filling over the crust, wrap the pan in foil, and place in a water bath. Bake for 60–70 minutes until slightly jiggly. Cool in the oven for an hour, then refrigerate.
- Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over white chocolate chips. Stir until smooth. Once the cheesecake has chilled, pour ganache over the top and decorate with cookie dough balls and sprinkles.
