Imagine combining two all-time favorite desserts in one showstopping treat: that’s exactly what you get with Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. Perfectly velvety cheesecake filling sits atop a sweet, buttery sugar cookie crust, and is finished with the playful crunch of cookie crumbles and colorful sprinkles. It’s a dessert that’s both nostalgic and elegant, equally at home on a holiday table or as a whimsical weekend baking adventure. If you’re looking for something that will wow your guests and make any gathering extra special, Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is your new go-to recipe.

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake comes together beautifully with a handful of essential ingredients, each bringing its own flair to the party. From rich cream cheese for a creamy texture to festive sprinkles that add a pop of color, every component is simple, accessible, and mighty important for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Sugar cookies (2 cups, crushed): Use soft, chewy cookies for a flavorful, firm crust that adds sweetness and crunch in every bite.
Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Helps bind the crust and boosts that irresistible buttery taste.
Cream cheese (3 packages, 8 oz each, softened): The heart of every cheesecake—give it time to soften for a perfectly smooth and creamy filling.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the tangy cream cheese without overpowering the delicate sugar cookie notes.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash rounds out all the flavors and smells like pure comfort baking away in your kitchen.
Large eggs (3): Create the custardy structure and help the cheesecake set up beautifully.
Sour cream (½ cup): Adds luscious creaminess and a touch of tang for balance.
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Gives the filling just enough structure to hold together without getting dense.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
Whipped cream (for topping, optional): Light and fluffy, it’s the perfect finishing touch for extra indulgence.
Holiday sprinkles or extra cookie crumbles (for garnish): Add color and crunch, making your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake festive and fun.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start things off by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and greasing a 9-inch springform pan. Grab your crushed sugar cookies and toss them with the melted unsalted butter in a bowl, mixing until every crumb is coated. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your pan—use the bottom of a measuring cup to get it nice and even! Pop it in the oven for 10 minutes to set the crust, then let it cool slightly while you whip up the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth, with no lumps in sight (this part is therapeutic!). Sprinkle in the granulated sugar and pour in the vanilla extract, beating again until the mixture gets fluffy. Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently and scraping down the sides after each addition. This gentle approach keeps your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake nice and airy.

Step 3: Add the Final Touches

Stir in the sour cream, all-purpose flour, and salt until just combined—overmixing at this stage is a no-no! Pour the velvety cheesecake filling over your cooled sugar cookie crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any stubborn air bubbles, which can help prevent cracks later.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the very center has a gentle jiggle when you nudge the pan. When it’s ready, turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour—this helps avoid cracks by allowing it to cool slowly.

Step 5: Chill and Decorate

After the hour-long cool, transfer your cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for neat slices and the perfect creamy texture. Dress up your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake just before serving: a cloud of whipped cream, a shower of extra sugar cookie crumbles, and a handful of sparkling holiday sprinkles make it irresistible.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Garnishes

Topping your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is where you can get creative and let your personality shine. Dollops of whipped cream, a scattering of crushed sugar cookies, and a sprinkle of colorful, seasonal sprinkles elevate each slice from amazing to unforgettable. Treat every serving like a mini celebration!

Side Dishes

While a slice of this cheesecake really shines on its own, you can pair it with a light fruit salad, a mug of hot chocolate, or even a tart berry compote to complement the sweetness. These refreshing sides balance the richness and make your dessert spread feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake into bars for a finger-food option at parties, or serve individual rounds in elegant dessert cups with layers of extra cookie crumble and cream. If you’re hosting a holiday crowd, arrange slices in a wreath shape with sprinkles and cookie stars for a truly festive centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sugar Cookie Cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to five days, making it perfect for enjoying little treats through the week or dazzling unexpected guests.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Sugar Cookie Cheesecake! Wrap cooled, un-garnished slices in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when a cheesecake craving strikes.

Reheating

Cheesecake is always best chilled, but if you want to enjoy it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the texture; instead, let it thaw gently for the creamiest results.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Store-bought sugar cookies work beautifully and make this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake even more convenient. Just be sure they’re the soft, chewy kind for the best texture in your crust.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Most cracks are just a sign of rapid temperature changes or overbaking. To help prevent this, cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven as directed, and consider using a water bath or placing a pan of hot water on the rack below your cheesecake for extra insurance.

Do I have to use a springform pan?

A springform pan makes it much easier to remove and serve your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake in neat slices, but if you don’t have one, you can use a regular round cake pan lined with parchment, taking extra care when lifting out the cheesecake.

Can I make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake ahead of time?

It actually tastes better when made ahead! Prepare, bake, and refrigerate your cheesecake up to two days in advance. Add your whipped cream and garnishes just before serving for the freshest look.

What’s the best way to crush the sugar cookies?

A food processor breaks cookies down evenly in seconds, but if you don’t have one, seal your cookies in a zip-top bag and gently smash them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a sturdy glass—it works just as well and is oddly satisfying!

Final Thoughts

If you love the playful flavors of sugar cookies and the luxurious creaminess of cheesecake, this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake really is the best of both desserts. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or simply to treat yourself, I promise this recipe will bring plenty of smiles and requests for second helpings. Happy baking!

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate holiday dessert with this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake recipe. Creamy cheesecake filling on a sweet sugar cookie crust, topped with whipped cream and festive sprinkles. Perfect for Christmas or any special occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

Sugar Cookie Crust:

2 cups crushed sugar cookies (plus extra for garnish)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt

For Topping:

Whipped cream
Holiday sprinkles or more cookie crumbles for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Prepare the crust: Mix crushed sugar cookies with melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Cool slightly.
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, eggs, sour cream, flour, and salt, mixing until combined.
Bake: Pour filling over crust and bake for 55–65 minutes. Cool in the oven, then chill for at least 4 hours.
Serve: Top with whipped cream, cookie crumbles, and sprinkles before serving.