Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe – The Ultimate Christmas Dessert

Introduction

Are you ready to elevate your holiday baking game with a dessert that combines two beloved classics? This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is about to become your new favorite Christmas treat. Imagine a buttery shortbread crust supporting a rich, creamy cheesecake studded with colorful sugar cookie dough bites, all crowned with a luscious sour cream frosting and festive sprinkles.

This show-stopping dessert isn’t just visually stunning it delivers on flavor and texture in every single bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, bringing dessert to a family gathering, or simply treating yourself to something special, this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake checks all the boxes. The best part? It’s easier to make than you might think, and the results are absolutely bakery-worthy.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this magical holiday masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Perfect Holiday Centerpiece: With its festive sprinkles and impressive presentation, this cheesecake steals the show at any Christmas gathering.

Two Desserts in One: Why choose between sugar cookies and cheesecake when you can have both? This recipe brilliantly combines the best of both worlds.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Since the cheesecake needs to chill overnight, you can prepare it a day ahead, leaving you stress-free on the day of your event.

Crowd-Pleaser: The familiar flavors of sugar cookies paired with creamy cheesecake appeal to guests of all ages.

Customizable: Feel free to use different colored sprinkles to match your holiday theme or party colors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shortbread Crust

Sugar Cookie Dough

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Filling

Sour Cream Frosting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shortbread Crust

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and a pinch of kosher salt.

Step 3: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your hands, thoroughly work the butter into the flour until it’s completely incorporated and resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Mix in the milk. The dough should feel moist but remain crumbly in texture.

Step 5: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared springform pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden. Keep the oven at 325°F after removing the crust.

Making the Sugar Cookie Dough Bites

Step 6: Using the same bowl from the crust (no need to wash it), combine the room temperature butter and granulated sugar. Mix with an electric mixer or fork until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 8: Incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until almost fully combined.

Step 9: Fold in the jimmies sprinkles and mix just until the dough comes together.

Step 10: Pinch off small, bite-sized pieces of dough and roll them into little balls. Place these on a plate and set aside while you prepare the cheesecake batter.

Creating the Cheesecake Filling

Step 11: Place a roasting pan on the bottom rack of your oven. Fill a medium pot with water and bring it to a boil on the stovetop this will create your water bath.

Step 12: In a large bowl using a hand or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and flour. Mix on low speed until completely smooth with no lumps.

Step 13: Scrape down the bowl, then mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and sour cream on low speed.

Step 14: Scrape down the bowl again. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.

Step 15: Gently fold in the sugar cookie dough bites by hand using a rubber spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 16: Butter the sides of your springform pan and pour in the cheesecake batter.

Baking Your Cheesecake

Step 17: By now, your water should be boiling. Carefully pour the hot water into the roasting pan in the oven. Quickly place your cheesecake on the middle rack, just above the water bath.

Step 18: Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are golden and set, but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently nudged.

Step 19: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Allow the cheesecake to remain inside for 45 minutes this gradual cooling helps prevent cracking.

Step 20: Remove the cheesecake and let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill overnight.

Note: Due to the cookie dough bites, the surface may crack slightly. You can smooth the cracks with a small palette knife or simply leave them the frosting will cover everything beautifully!

Finishing with Sour Cream Frosting

Step 21: After the cheesecake has chilled overnight, prepare your frosting. In a mixing bowl with the paddle attachment, beat the room temperature butter until smooth.

Step 22: Mix in the sour cream until combined.

Step 23: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy and smooth.

Step 24: Spread the frosting evenly over the top of your chilled cheesecake and finish with a generous amount of festive sprinkles.

Expert Tips for Success

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter. Take your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream out of the fridge at least 1-2 hours before baking.

Don’t Overmix: Once you add the eggs, mix on low speed and just until combined. Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause cracks.

Water Bath is Essential: The steam from the water bath keeps your cheesecake moist and helps it bake evenly, reducing the risk of cracks.

Let it Chill Completely: Patience is key! The overnight chill allows the cheesecake to set properly and develop the best texture and flavor.

Make the Cookie Dough Bites Small: Bite-sized pieces distribute better throughout the batter and create the perfect cookie-to-cheesecake ratio in every slice.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Store your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best texture, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

This cheesecake is incredibly versatile for serving. Cut it into 12-16 slices depending on your crowd. Serve it as the star dessert at your Christmas dinner, bring it to a holiday potluck, or package individual slices as sweet gifts for neighbors and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake actually benefits from being made 1-2 days in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully, and having it done ahead reduces holiday stress.

Why did my cheesecake crack?
Cheesecakes can crack for several reasons: overmixing the batter, baking at too high a temperature, or cooling too quickly. Using a water bath and the gradual cooling method in this recipe minimizes cracking. Don’t worry though the frosting covers any imperfections!

Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes! Freeze the unfrosted cheesecake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add the frosting before serving.

Can I use a different type of sprinkles?
Definitely! Feel free to use nonpareils, sanding sugar, or themed sprinkles. Just avoid chocolate sprinkles in the cookie dough as they may bleed color into the batter.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A springform pan makes removal much easier, but you can use a regular 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper with long overhangs to lift the cheesecake out.

Can I skip the almond extract?
Yes, the almond extract is optional. It adds a subtle depth that mimics traditional sugar cookies, but the cheesecake is delicious without it.

Conclusion

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is more than just a dessert it’s a holiday experience. The combination of buttery shortbread, creamy cheesecake studded with sweet cookie dough, and tangy sour cream frosting creates layers of flavor and texture that will have your guests raving.

Whether you’re an experienced baker looking for your next showstopper or someone who wants to try something special this holiday season, this recipe delivers impressive results with clear, manageable steps. The make-ahead nature means you can enjoy your party instead of stressing in the kitchen.

Ready to make holiday magic happen? Gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and create this stunning Sugar Cookie Cheesecake that’ll become a cherished part of your Christmas traditions. Your family and friends will be talking about this dessert long after the holidays are over!

Pin this recipe now so you have it ready for your holiday baking schedule!