If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if your favorite festive cookies joined forces with the world’s dreamiest cheesecake, it’s time to meet your new must-bake dessert: Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. This show-stopping creation blends creamy, tangy cheesecake with sweet, colorful sugar cookie crumbles, all nestled atop a buttery cookie crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream and merry sprinkles. Whether you’re making it for a party, family gathering, or simply to add a little extra magic to the season, this festive treat is guaranteed to steal the spotlight and bring out smiles all around!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the simple but spectacular ingredients that make this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake so irresistible. Each element plays a unique role, from the crumbly cookie base to the luxurious filling and whimsical topping. Here’s what you’ll need (and why each one matters):
- Cream Cheese (16 oz, softened): This is the heart and soul of the cheesecake, lending silky texture and that signature creamy tang.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the filling, balancing out the tang of the cream cheese and sour cream.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): A splash of vanilla provides warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Eggs (2 large): Essential for binding the batter together and creating a luscious, velvety texture.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Brings a subtle zing and keeps the texture extra rich and creamy.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances the other flavors and keeps the sweetness perfectly in check.
- Crushed Sugar Cookies (2 cups, divided): For the festive magic! These cookies form both the base and a fun, crunchy swirl in the filling—go for Christmas-themed ones if you want a burst of color.
- Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, melted): Holds the cookie crust together and adds that classic buttery richness we all love.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup): Whips up into that dreamy cloud-like topping for your finished cake.
- Powdered Sugar (1/4 cup): Helps the whipped cream hold its shape and adds a touch of sweetness.
- Red and Green Sprinkles: The finishing touch—nothing says holiday joy quite like a blizzard of colorful sprinkles!
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Craft Your Festive Cookie Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grab a 9-inch springform pan. In a mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of the crushed Christmas sugar cookies with your melted butter. Use a fork (or your hands—no judgment here!) to mix until it’s evenly moistened and crumbly. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of your pan, making sure it’s packed tight for the perfect sturdy base. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool while you move on to the luscious filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s absolutely smooth and fluffy. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended—you don’t want any lumps at this stage! One at a time, mix in the eggs, blending well after each addition. Next, stir in the sour cream and salt, ensuring everything is silky and cohesive. Finally, gently fold in the remaining ½ cup of crushed sugar cookies for a fun burst of cookie flavor in every slice.
Step 3: Bake Your Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling onto your cooled cookie crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center just sets (a slight wobble is perfectly normal). When it’s done, don’t rush—you want the creamiest possible texture. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let your cheesecake rest inside for about an hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks and makes the texture extra dreamy.
Step 4: Chill to Perfection
Transfer your cheesecake to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 hours—or, if you can resist, overnight. The longer it rests, the better the flavors develop and the easier it is to slice beautifully.
Step 5: Whip, Decorate, and Serve
Just before serving, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until you get luscious, stiff peaks. Spread (or pipe, for extra flare!) the whipped cream over your chilled Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. Finish with a joyful flurry of red and green sprinkles. Slice, serve, and get ready for rave reviews!
How to Serve Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Garnishes
When it comes to decorating this cheesecake, don’t hold back! Besides the classic whipped cream and red-and-green sprinkles, you can scatter extra crushed sugar cookies or even a smattering of crushed peppermint candies for a peppermint bark vibe. Edible glitter or colored sugar crystals add sparkle for an extra festive presentation.
Side Dishes
This decadent Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a star on its own, but it pairs fantastically with a mug of hot cocoa, mulled wine, or a simple cup of coffee. For a touch of fresh contrast, serve with a bowl of mixed seasonal fruit or a tart cranberry compote on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re in the mood to impress, try cutting the cheesecake into bite-sized bars for a dessert platter, or serve individual mini cheesecakes in jars layered with extra cookie crumbs and whipped cream. You can even use playful cookie cutters to add festive shapes to the garnish—think snowflakes, stars, or tiny trees for a true holiday centerpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake keeps best in the fridge, tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days—if it lasts that long! The flavors often deepen after a day or two, making those leftovers extra tempting.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap your cheesecake (whole or sliced) tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving; just wait to add whipped cream and sprinkles until you’re ready to enjoy it fresh.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at cool room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warm (hey, everyone has their preferences!), let a slice sit out for 20-30 minutes on the counter. Avoid microwaving, as it can compromise the creamy texture and melt those pretty toppings!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought sugar cookies for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! Using store-bought sugar cookies saves time and adds plenty of festive flavor. Just be sure to crush them well, and pick colorful Christmas varieties for a more vibrant cheesecake.
What’s the best way to avoid cracks in the cheesecake?
A gentle bake and slow cooling are the secrets here. Letting your Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake rest in the turned-off oven with the door slightly open for an hour reduces the risk of cracks and helps create that signature creamy texture.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap the sugar cookies for your favorite gluten-free Christmas cookies or a gluten-free graham cracker mix. Double-check all other ingredient labels to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
How far in advance can I make this dessert?
You can make Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake up to two days in advance. Just wait to add the whipped cream and sprinkles right before serving, so everything stays fresh and picture-perfect.
What can I add to make this even more festive?
Get creative! Try stirring in some crushed peppermint candies, adding a swirl of raspberry jam before baking, or garnishing with sugared cranberries and mint leaves for a winter wonderland effect.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a true celebration dessert, and I hope it finds a special place on your holiday table—and in your heart! There’s something extra magical about that sweet cookie crunch nestled in every creamy bite. Gather your favorite people, grab your sprinkles, and get ready to make the holidays even sweeter!
Print
Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with this delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. Creamy cheesecake with a sugar cookie twist, topped with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles, it’s a perfect holiday treat!
Ingredients
Cheesecake:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups crushed sugar cookies (Christmas-themed if desired), divided
Crust:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Red and green sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare the crust: Mix 1 1/2 cups crushed sugar cookies with melted butter, press into the pan, and bake.
- Make the filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, eggs, sour cream, and salt. Fold in remaining crushed cookies.
- Bake: Pour filling over crust and bake until set.
- Chill: Let the cheesecake cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Prepare topping: Whip cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread on cheesecake and decorate with sprinkles.
Notes
- You can use pre-baked Christmas sugar cookies for easy prep and festive flavor.
- For extra flair, top with crushed peppermint candies or cookie pieces.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
