This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a festive twist on a classic dessert, combining creamy cheesecake with a fun, colorful sugar cookie crust. With its soft texture and holiday-inspired sweetness, this cheesecake is perfect for celebrating the season. I love making it as a showstopping dessert for holiday gatherings—it’s simple to prepare and a delightful treat for both kids and adults. Topped with whipped cream and festive sprinkles, it’s a beautiful addition to any dessert table.
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake offers a combination of flavors and textures, with a buttery sugar cookie crust and smooth, creamy cheesecake filling. The holiday sprinkles add a touch of color, making it perfect for Christmas celebrations. It’s easy to make, festive, and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite holiday toppings for extra cheer.
Recipe: Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 (16 oz) package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- Holiday sprinkles (optional, for color)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Additional holiday sprinkles
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a smooth layer for the crust. If desired, sprinkle holiday sprinkles over the dough to add festive color.
Step 2: Pre-Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly and the edges are set.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to fully set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, top the cheesecake with whipped cream and a sprinkle of holiday sprinkles for a festive touch. Slice and enjoy your delicious, holiday-inspired cheesecake!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Serve this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake chilled. It’s a festive dessert for holiday gatherings, making it a beautiful centerpiece for your Christmas table.
Storage:
Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to a month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Customize with Toppings: For extra holiday flair, try topping with mini candy canes, crushed peppermint, or colored sprinkles.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
- Avoid Overbaking: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough for the crust?
Yes, homemade sugar cookie dough works just as well. Simply prepare your favorite sugar cookie recipe and press it into the pan.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free sugar cookie dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q3: Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling?
Absolutely! Lemon or orange zest adds a light citrus flavor that pairs well with the creamy filling.
Q4: How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Make sure not to overmix the filling and avoid opening the oven door while baking. Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven with the door ajar also helps prevent cracks.
Q5: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Decorate with whipped cream and sprinkles just before serving for the best presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a fun and festive dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its creamy filling, colorful sugar cookie crust, and holiday decorations, it’s sure to bring joy to your Christmas celebrations. Share it with loved ones and enjoy each sweet, delicious bite of this holiday treat. Happy baking and merry Christmas!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 16 oz package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
- Holiday sprinkles optional, for color
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract optional, for extra flavor
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Additional holiday sprinkles
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a smooth layer for the crust. If desired, sprinkle holiday sprinkles over the dough to add festive color.
Step 2: Pre-Bake the Crust
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly and the edges are set.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to fully set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, top the cheesecake with whipped cream and a sprinkle of holiday sprinkles for a festive touch. Slice and enjoy your delicious, holiday-inspired cheesecake!
Notes
- Customize with Toppings: For extra holiday flair, try topping with mini candy canes, crushed peppermint, or colored sprinkles.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
- Avoid Overbaking: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
