This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of the holidays to your table. With its sweet sugar cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling packed with cookie dough bites, and a luscious white chocolate ganache, this dessert is sure to impress at any festive gathering. Perfect for Christmas celebrations or any occasion that calls for a sweet touch, this recipe stands out not just for its taste but also for its beautiful presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: This cheesecake combines the classic taste of sugar cookies with rich cream cheese, creating a dessert that is both familiar and exciting.
- Festive Appeal: With colorful Christmas sprinkles and a gorgeous white chocolate topping, it’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for holiday celebrations.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is straightforward and manageable even for beginner bakers.
- Versatile Dessert: While it’s perfect for Christmas, this cheesecake can be enjoyed year-round for birthdays, parties, or simply as an indulgent treat.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors and textures guarantees that your guests will love every bite.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch springform pan: This allows you to easily release the cheesecake without damaging it after baking.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures a smooth batter, making mixing easy work.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are key in baking; these tools help ensure accuracy.
Ingredients
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 Bites
- 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 cup Cookie dough balls
For the White Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup White chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup Heavy cream
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Grease your springform pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Preheat your oven to the desired temperature according to your recipe instructions.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Crust
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat together unsalted butter and sugar until creamy. Add in vanilla extract, egg, and egg yolk; mix well. Gradually add dry ingredients until combined. Press this dough into the bottom of your prepared springform pan.
Step 3: Prepare Cookie Dough Bites
For cookie dough bites, mix together flour and salt in one bowl. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add milk and vanilla extract; mix well before folding in dry ingredients. Finally, stir in Christmas sprinkles. Form into small balls and place them on parchment paper.
Step 4: Create the Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until blended. Add eggs one at a time while mixing on low speed. Gently fold in cookie dough balls.
Step 5: Assemble
Pour cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in your springform pan. Bake according to recipe instructions until set. Allow cooling completely before chilling in the fridge for several hours.
Step 6: Make White Chocolate Ganache
Heat heavy cream until just simmering then pour over white chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Step 7: Finish Your Cheesecake
Once chilled, pour ganache over the top of your cheesecake evenly. Decorate with additional cookie dough balls if desired before slicing into pieces to serve. Enjoy!
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Serving sugar cookie cheesecake is all about elevating its delightful flavors and textures. This dessert can be enjoyed in various ways to create the perfect festive experience.
Individual Slices
- Serve each slice on a decorative plate for an elegant presentation. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
With Fresh Berries
- Pair slices with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cheesecake beautifully.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds a rich flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cheesecake. It’s especially delicious for those who love sweet treats.
Topped with Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream. The combination of hot and cold creates a delightful contrast.
Festive Garnishes
- Decorate your cheesecake with additional Christmas sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive touch. This makes it visually appealing and fun for holiday gatherings.
How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Perfecting your sugar cookie cheesecake ensures it turns out delicious every time. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.
Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese, eggs, and butter are at room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
Avoid overmixing: Mix ingredients just until combined to prevent incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.
Bake in a water bath: Place your cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with water while baking to maintain moisture and achieve even cooking.
Cool gradually: After baking, let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracking due to sudden temperature changes.
Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Sugar cookie cheesecake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch from pretzels dipped in chocolate creates an enjoyable contrast with the creamy dessert.
Peppermint Bark: This festive treat adds a minty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of sugar cookie cheesecake.
Gingerbread Cookies: Traditional gingerbread offers spice notes that can enhance the holiday spirit when served alongside your cheesecake.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm drink like spiced hot chocolate can make for a comforting pairing during colder months.
Cheesecake Bites: Miniature versions of cheesecakes allow guests to enjoy more than one flavor while keeping portion sizes small.
Nutty Granola Bars: These provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of cheesecake while adding wholesome elements.
Caramel Popcorn: Sweet and crunchy caramel popcorn adds an exciting twist that will delight guests at any gathering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making sugar cookie cheesecake can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes can ruin the fun.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to a lumpy cheesecake. Always let your ingredients warm up for better blending.
- Skipping the crust chilling step: Failing to chill the crust before baking can cause it to crumble. Make sure to chill for at least 30 minutes for stability.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air, resulting in cracks. Mix just until combined to keep it smooth and creamy.
- Using a wrong baking pan: A non-stick or springform pan works best. Avoid using glass pans as they can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not allowing the cheesecake to cool properly: Cutting into a hot cheesecake can lead to a messy slice. Allow it to cool in the oven with the door ajar before refrigerating.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep slices separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in 15-second bursts until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a double boiler method, ensuring it doesn’t get too hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about sugar cookie cheesecake that might help you out.
What is a Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Sugar cookie cheesecake is a delicious dessert combining the flavors of classic sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake, creating a unique treat.
Can I customize my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Absolutely! You can add different flavors like peppermint or chocolate chips for variety. Feel free to experiment with toppings too!
How do I prevent cracks in my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
To avoid cracks, mix your batter gently and bake at lower temperatures. Also, cooling slowly in the oven helps maintain its smooth surface.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare sugar cookie cheesecake up to two days in advance. Just store it properly in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
This sugar cookie cheesecake is not only beautiful but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Customize it with your favorite sprinkles or toppings to make it truly yours. Give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy every bite!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Indulge in the festive delight of Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, a dessert that marries the classic flavors of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This show-stopping treat features a sweet sugar cookie crust, a luscious filling dotted with cookie dough bites, and a velvety white chocolate ganache atop. Perfect for Christmas celebrations or any festive occasion, this cheesecake is not only delicious but also visually stunning with its colorful sprinkles. Easy to make and sure to impress your guests, this recipe will become a cherished addition to your holiday dessert repertoire.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- 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 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 cup Cookie dough balls
- 1 cup White chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In separate bowls, prepare the sugar cookie crust by mixing dry ingredients and then creaming butter and sugar together. Press into the prepared pan.
- Create cookie dough bites by combining ingredients, forming small balls, and chilling.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, adding sour cream, heavy cream, and eggs one at a time.
- Fold in cookie dough bites and pour mixture over the crust.
- Bake until set, cool completely before chilling in the fridge.
- For the ganache, heat heavy cream and pour over white chocolate chips; stir until smooth before topping the chilled cheesecake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
