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If you’ve been dreaming of a show-stopping dessert that perfectly captures the festive spirit, this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe is absolutely for you. It combines the buttery, nostalgic crunch of sugar cookie crust with the rich, velvety cream cheese filling that melts in your mouth. Each bite is like a celebration of holiday cheer—sweet, creamy, and decked out with colorful sprinkles or crushed candy canes that add just the right pop of festive fun. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or bringing a dessert to a holiday party, this cheesecake will instantly become your new seasonal favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and festive flair that makes this cheesecake so irresistible.
- 1 ½ cups prepared sugar cookie dough: This forms a buttery, slightly chewy crust that sets the stage for indulgence.
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened: The creamy foundation of the cheesecake, ensuring a smooth, rich filling.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Adds gentle sweetness and helps create that signature cheesecake texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the filling with a fragrant touch.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give the cheesecake its delicate structure.
- 1 cup whipped cream: Lightens the texture and adds a soft finish both inside and on top.
- Festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes for decoration: The final joyful accents that make it unmistakably holiday.
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This steady, moderate temperature is key for baking the cheesecake gently, preventing cracks and ensuring an even, creamy texture. Before baking, grease a springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper—this simple prep step guarantees a smooth release when your masterpiece is ready.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Press your prepared sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the springform pan. Don’t just drop it in—take a moment to gently press it down to form a firm, consistent crust that will hold up beautifully to the creamy filling. This step is where the first layer of sweetness and that subtle cookie crunch come from.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This is the heart of your cheesecake, so take your time to eliminate any lumps. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully integrated without overbeating, which helps keep a silky texture in the final bake.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour your luscious cream cheese mixture right over the sugar cookie crust in the pan, spreading it out evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll notice the center looks just set but still jiggles very slightly when you gently shake the pan—this is the perfect sign that your cheesecake is ready to cool.
Step 5: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Don’t skip this—cooling helps the texture set flawlessly. Then pop it into the fridge for at least two hours to chill and firm up. When it’s time to serve, lavish the top with a generous layer of whipped cream and decorate with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes to give it that iconic holiday sparkle and crunch.
How to Serve Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
The garnish is where the Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe really shines visually and flavor-wise. A fluffy cloud of whipped cream spread across the top acts as the perfect canvas for a sprinkle of festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes. This not only adds cheerful color but also a delightful contrast in texture and a subtle peppermint twist that feels lovingly seasonal.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides. A simple mixed berry compote or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can elevate the experience by adding fresh and creamy notes that balance the richness. Even a cup of warm spiced tea or mulled wine served alongside can make each forkful feel cozy and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching dessert table, try serving individual portions of this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe in clear glass jars or small dessert dishes layered with crushed candy canes and extra sprinkles. You can also slice the cheesecake into bite-sized bars and arrange them on a festive platter, each topped with a peppermint stick or holiday-themed chocolate decoration for extra charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this festive treat, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or cover with a lid and keep refrigerated. The cheesecake will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to savor every last bit or share with friends and family.
Freezing
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap the cheesecake well in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best texture.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply slice and enjoy straight from the fridge. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring out all the creamy, rich flavors.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade sugar cookie dough can add a wonderful personal touch and freshness. Just be sure your dough recipe isn’t too soft or overly sticky, as the crust needs to firm up well during baking.
Is it okay to substitute whipped cream with sour cream in the cheesecake filling?
You could try, but whipped cream gives the filling a light, airy texture that sour cream cannot replicate. Sour cream will add a tangy flavor and denser texture, which might change the classic feel of this recipe.
How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Baking at a moderate temperature and avoiding overmixing the batter are key. Also, letting the cheesecake cool gradually and not rapidly cooling it in a cold environment helps prevent cracks.
Can I make this cheesecake vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies heavily on cream cheese and whipped cream, which are dairy products. However, you can experiment with plant-based cream cheese alternatives and coconut whipped cream to create a vegan-friendly version.
What’s the best way to remove the cheesecake from the springform pan?
Run a thin knife around the edge before releasing the springform latch to loosen the cheesecake gently. This helps keep the edges clean and prevents sticking, preserving the beautiful crust and filling.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe is truly a holiday gem that brings together the best elements of festive flavors and creamy indulgence. It’s easy enough to whip up for a special occasion yet impressive enough to wow anyone at your holiday gathering. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become a treasured part of your seasonal celebrations. So grab your ingredients, turn on some holiday tunes, and create a dessert that spreads joy with every bite!
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Print
Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake combines a buttery sugar cookie crust with a rich, creamy cream cheese filling, topped with whipped cream and colorful holiday sprinkles or crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday celebrations, this dessert is sweet, smooth, and delightfully decorative.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups prepared sugar cookie dough
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake.
- Prepare the Crust: Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer that will act as the crust for your cheesecake.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to achieve a smooth batter.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the sugar cookie crust in the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set with a slight jiggle when you gently move the pan.
- Cool and Decorate: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to fully set. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes for a decorative holiday touch.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Do not overbake; the center should still jiggle slightly to avoid a dry cheesecake.
- Use a springform pan to make removal easier without damaging the crust or filling.
- Decorate just before serving to keep the whipped cream fresh and sprinkles vibrant.
