This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful treat that brings the joy of the holiday season to your table. With a buttery sugar cookie crust and a creamy cheesecake filling studded with playful sugar cookie dough balls, this dessert is perfect for Christmas celebrations. Its rich white chocolate ganache topping adds an extra touch of elegance, making it ideal for gatherings and festive occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of a creamy cheesecake and a sweet cookie crust makes every bite heavenly.
- Festive Appeal: Decorated with colorful Christmas sprinkles, this cheesecake is visually stunning and perfect for holiday parties.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Versatile Dessert: While great for Christmas, this cheesecake can be enjoyed year-round for birthdays or special events.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Everyone loves cookies, and this dessert doubles down on that love with cookie dough in the filling.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delectable Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and baking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- 9-inch springform pan
- Rubber spatula
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool makes blending cream cheese and sugar effortless, resulting in a smooth filling.
- Springform pan: It allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging the crust or edges.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients gently while ensuring an even mix.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake:
For the Sugar Cookie Crust
- 1 3/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup White granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 1 Large egg (room temperature)
- 1 Egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)
For the Cookie Dough Filling
- 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup White granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 3 TBSP Milk
- 1/2 cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup White granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Sour cream (room temperature or greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup Heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 4 Large eggs (room temperature)
- 3/4 Cookie dough balls
For the Topping
- 1 cup White chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup Heavy cream
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Crust
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat together unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract, egg, egg yolk, and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well incorporated. Fold in Christmas sprinkles.
5. Press the dough into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan evenly. Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough Filling
In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together unsalted butter and sugar until creamy.
2. Add vanilla extract and milk; mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and salt until combined. Fold in Christmas sprinkles.
4. Form small cookie dough balls from this mixture.
Step 4: Create the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
2. Gradually add sugar and mix well.
3. Add sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and blend until smooth.
4. Incorporate eggs one at a time into the mixture until fully combined.
Step 5: Assemble Your Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the baked cookie crust in the springform pan:
1. Evenly distribute cookie dough balls over this layer.
2. Pour remaining cheesecake filling over everything.
Step 6: Bake Your Cheesecake
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 80 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with door ajar for an hour.
Step 7: Cool & Chill
Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight.
Step 8: Prepare White Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan:
1. Heat heavy cream until just simmering but not boiling.
2. Pour over white chocolate chips in a bowl; let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Step 9: Serve & Enjoy
Once chilled, pour white chocolate ganache over your cheesecake before serving! Top with more cookie dough balls if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Sugar Cookie Cheesecake!
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Serving your sugar cookie cheesecake is an exciting part of the dessert experience. This festive treat can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance its delightful flavors and textures.
Individual Slices
- Serve each slice on a decorative plate for an elegant presentation.
- Top with whipped cream for added creaminess and a festive touch.
With Fresh Berries
- Pair with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
- The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cheesecake perfectly.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of flavor.
- It creates a deliciously gooey texture that complements the cheesecake.
Accompanied by Hot Cocoa
- Serve alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience.
- This pairing is especially delightful during the holiday season.
Topped with Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream adds richness to each bite.
- Let the ice cream slightly melt into the warm cheesecake for an indulgent treat.
How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Perfecting your sugar cookie cheesecake takes some attention to detail, but it’s worth the effort. Here are some key tips to ensure your dessert turns out flawlessly.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing cream cheese, eggs, and butter to room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter and prevents lumps.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake while baking.
- Bake in a water bath: Using a water bath helps regulate the temperature and moisture around your cheesecake, resulting in even baking.
- Chill thoroughly: Allow your cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours. This helps set its texture.
- Decorate just before serving: For best results, add toppings like ganache and sprinkles right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Pairing your sugar cookie cheesecake with complementary side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats add elegance and pair beautifully with the flavors of your dessert.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Christmas-themed cookies offer a nostalgic flavor that matches well during holiday gatherings.
- Pecan Pie Bars: A crunchy pecan pie bar adds texture contrast alongside creamy cheesecake.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Serving mini versions gives guests variety while keeping within the same dessert family.
- Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts brings crunch and flavor complexity that complements the sweet dessert.
- Coffee or Espresso: A strong brew can enhance the sweetness and provide a lovely after-dinner drink option.
- Cheese Platter: Including soft cheeses can create an interesting savory-sweet balance that guests will appreciate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a sugar cookie cheesecake can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dessert. Here are a few to watch out for:
Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can affect the texture and flavor. Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Not Softening Cream Cheese: If you don’t let your cream cheese come to room temperature, it may not blend well. Make sure it’s soft to create a smooth filling.
Skipping the Chill Time: Rushing the chilling process can lead to a cheesecake that’s too soft. Allow adequate time for it to set in the refrigerator before serving.
Overmixing Batter: Mixing the batter too much can introduce excess air, leading to cracks during baking. Mix just until combined for a smooth finish.
Ignoring Oven Temperature: An incorrectly calibrated oven may bake unevenly. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures for perfect baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sugar cookie cheesecake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Sugar cookie cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with a sugar cookie crust and chunks of sugar cookie dough.
Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, using store-bought cookie dough is an easy option! Just make sure it fits well with the rest of your ingredients.
How do I make my cheesecake more festive?
You can add extra Christmas sprinkles or use different flavors of extract like almond extract for added depth!
Why does my cheesecake have cracks?
Cracks often occur due to overmixing or sudden temperature changes. Bake at a lower temperature and avoid overbeating the batter.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add flavors like peppermint or chocolate chips to make it unique, perfect for any occasion!
Final Thoughts
This sugar cookie cheesecake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any celebration. Its creamy filling paired with a sweet crust makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite flavors or toppings to suit your taste!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Indulge in the festive delight of this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake filling and a buttery sugar cookie crust. This dessert captures the essence of holiday celebrations with its vibrant colors and rich flavors. Each slice features playful cookie dough balls, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache, this cheesecake not only looks stunning but tastes heavenly. Whether for Christmas or a special occasion, this easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 80 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 3/4 cup White granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 1 Large egg (room temperature)
- 1 Egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1/3 cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)
- 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup White granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 3 TBSP Milk
- 1/2 cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)
- 24 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup White granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Sour cream (room temperature or greek yogurt)
- 1/4 cup Heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 4 Large eggs (room temperature)
- 3/4 Cookie dough balls
- 1 cup White chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare the sugar cookie crust by mixing flour, baking soda, salt, butter, sugar, vanilla, egg, and egg yolk until combined. Fold in sprinkles and press into a greased springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Make cookie dough filling by creaming butter and sugar, adding milk and vanilla, then gradually incorporating flour and salt. Form small dough balls.
- For the cheesecake filling, beat cream cheese until smooth then add sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, and eggs one at a time until well combined.
- Layer half of the cheesecake filling over the crust, add cookie dough balls, followed by the remaining filling. Bake for about 80 minutes or until set.
- Cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours.
- Prepare white chocolate ganache by heating heavy cream and pouring it over white chocolate chips until melted.
- Serve chilled with ganache drizzled on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (115g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
