If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that brings pure holiday magic to your table, the Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is it. Imagine the cozy nostalgia of classic sugar cookies meeting the luscious, creamy bliss of cheesecake, all studded with sparkly red and green sprinkles. It’s festive, it’s delightfully decadent, and it somehow manages to capture the joy of Christmas in every single bite. Whether you’re gathering with family, attending a potluck, or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this cheesecake is like unwrapping a sweet, edible present.

Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and ensures that each bite is bursting with holiday cheer. Every component of this recipe plays a special role, from the buttery cookie crust to the creamy filling and the playful pops of color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each element is essential.

Crushed sugar cookies (2 cups): The foundation for our crust—use your favorite store-bought or homemade sugar cookies for maximum flavor.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Melts into the cookie crumbs for a rich, cohesive base that holds together perfectly.
Cream cheese (3 packages, softened): The heart of the cheesecake, providing that classic tang and irresistible creaminess.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the filling just right, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang and smooth texture to make the filling incredibly luscious.
Large eggs (3): Help bind the filling while adding structure and just the right amount of richness.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): A hint of warm, comforting flavor that enhances the holiday vibe.
Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): The secret ingredient—a little goes a long way to infuse that classic sugar cookie taste.
Red and green sprinkles (1/2 cup + more for topping): Because what’s Christmas without a little sparkle and fun?
Whipped cream (for garnish): Fluffy, sweet clouds to crown each slice with festive flair.

How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Crush the sugar cookies into fine crumbs—this is a fantastic job for little hands if you’re baking with kids! Mix the crumbs with the melted butter until everything is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure to create an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to give it a lovely golden base, then set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

While the crust cools, grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy—it should look light and pillowy, almost like frosting. Next, blend in the sour cream, vanilla, and almond extract, mixing until fully incorporated. This combo of flavors creates the signature depth you want in a Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low just until each one is mixed in. This step is crucial; overmixing can lead to cracks, so take it slow and steady. Your batter will look rich and velvety, and resisting the urge to taste-test is its own holiday miracle.

Step 4: Fold in Festive Sprinkles

Gently fold in the red and green sprinkles, being careful not to overwork the batter. The sprinkles peek out like little jewels, giving you that unmistakable Christmas bakery look baked right in.

Step 5: Bake and Cool Your Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a gentle jiggle. When baking is done, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent surface cracks and keeps your Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake looking party-perfect.

Step 6: Chill and Garnish

Transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Just before serving, top each slice with a swirl of whipped cream and a generous sprinkle of extra red and green sprinkles. You’ll find it as irresistible to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Garnishes

Pile on the holiday cheer by crowning each slice with a lofty swirl of whipped cream and a hearty shower of red and green sprinkles. For a playful finishing touch, try adding a mini candy cane or even a whole sugar cookie on the side. This dessert just loves to get dressed up, so don’t hold back!

Side Dishes

Since your Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is rich and festive, keep things simple. Offer fresh, tart berries or a sparkling cranberry compote alongside each slice—the freshness is a perfect contrast. For a sip, a mug of peppermint hot chocolate or strong coffee never fails to complement the creamy, sweet notes of this cheesecake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, cut the cheesecake into small squares and serve them cupcake-style in festive liners—instant mini cheesecakes! Another fun idea: use holiday-shaped cookie cutters to adorn each slice with edible sugar cookie decorations. If you’re feeling extra spirited, let guests top their own slices with bowls of crushed peppermint, extra sprinkles, or white chocolate shavings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the holiday excitement winds down, cover any leftover cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 5 days—just be sure to keep it well-sealed to preserve its creamy texture and festive flavor.

Freezing

To make your Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake even farther ahead, freeze whole or in slices. Wrap well in plastic wrap and foil, then store in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture, and don’t forget to add fresh whipped cream and sprinkles before serving!

Reheating

While cheesecake is usually best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, you can gently bring chilled slices up to room temp by setting them on the counter for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought sugar cookies for the crust?

Absolutely! Store-bought sugar cookies make this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake even easier. Just be sure they’re crisp enough to crush into fine crumbs for a sturdy, flavorful crust.

What if my cheesecake cracks on top?

Don’t worry—cracks are actually pretty common and won’t affect the taste. Just cover the top with whipped cream, sprinkles, or even extra cookie crumbles. It’ll still be show-stopping (and delicious)!

Can I make Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake in advance?

Yes, in fact it’s even better that way! Prepare and bake the cheesecake a day before serving, then let it chill overnight. This not only saves you time, but also helps the flavors meld for an even more decadent dessert.

Is almond extract necessary?

While you can technically leave it out, a little almond extract is what gives this cheesecake its sugar cookie spirit and aroma. If anyone in your group has nut allergies or you’re not a fan, vanilla alone will still taste fantastic.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?

The key is to look for a set edge and a center that jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan. The cheesecake will continue to set as it cools and chills, so don’t worry if it seems a bit soft when you take it out of the oven.

Final Thoughts

There’s simply nothing like sharing a homemade Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with the people you love. It’s beautiful, celebratory, and delicious, and bound to become the centerpiece of your holiday dessert table. Give it a try this season—you’ll create sweet memories (and probably start a new tradition) with every slice!

Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a festive and decadent dessert that combines the flavors of sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

24 sugar cookies, crushed (about 2 cups crumbs)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup red and green sprinkles (plus more for topping)

whipped cream, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Prepare the crust: Mix crushed sugar cookies and melted butter, press into a 9-inch springform pan, and bake for 10 minutes.
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy, add sour cream, vanilla, almond extract, and eggs one at a time. Fold in sprinkles.
Assemble: Pour filling over crust, bake for 50–60 minutes, cool in the oven, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Serve: Top with whipped cream and sprinkles before serving.