This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for any festive occasion. With a delightful sugar cookie crust and a creamy cheesecake filled with sweet sugar cookie dough balls, this treat is sure to impress your family and friends. Topped with a smooth white chocolate ganache and more cookie dough bites, this cheesecake adds a fun twist to traditional holiday desserts. Perfect for Christmas gatherings or any celebration, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of classic sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake creates a unique dessert that everyone will love.
- Festive Appeal: Brighten up your holiday table with colorful Christmas sprinkles, making it visually stunning.
- Versatile Dessert: Suitable for various occasions, from Christmas parties to birthdays, it fits any celebration perfectly.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance to save time on the day of your event, allowing you to enjoy the festivities stress-free.
- Decadent Toppings: The white chocolate ganache adds a luxurious finish that elevates this cheesecake beyond ordinary desserts.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and ensures perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan (springform recommended)
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures smooth cream cheese mixtures without lumps for a perfect cheesecake texture.
- Baking pan: A springform pan makes it easy to remove the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
- Rubber spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in ingredients gently.
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 Filling
- 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 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: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until blended.
2. In another bowl, beat together unsalted butter and sugar until creamy.
3. Add in vanilla extract, egg, egg yolk, and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined. Fold in Christmas sprinkles.
5. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan evenly.
Step 3: Make Cookie Dough Balls
In a medium bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour and salt.
2. In another bowl, cream together unsalted butter with sugar until light.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and milk.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in Christmas sprinkles to create colorful cookie dough balls.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer.
2. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing until fluffy.
3. Add sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Step 5: Assemble Your Cheesecake
Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust in the springform pan:
1. Drop dollops of cookie dough balls evenly over this layer.
2. Pour remaining cheesecake batter on top and spread evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 80 minutes or until edges are set but center still slightly jiggles.
Step 7: Make White Chocolate Ganache
In a small saucepan:
1. Heat heavy cream over low heat until warm but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat; stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Once baked:
1. Let cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight for best results.
2. Drizzle white chocolate ganache over chilled cheesecake before serving.
Enjoy this delightful Sugar Cookie Cheesecake as a centerpiece at your next gathering!
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Serving your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake can elevate its festive charm. This delightful dessert pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its sweet flavors.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the rich cheesecake.
Fresh Berries
- Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful combination of flavors and temperatures.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle
- A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence to each slice.
Coffee or Hot Chocolate
- Pairing this cheesecake with coffee or hot chocolate makes for a comforting dessert experience, especially during the holidays.
Festive Sprinkles
- Adding more Christmas sprinkles on top lends a festive touch that delights both kids and adults alike.
How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
To ensure your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake turns out perfectly, follow these handy tips for best results.
Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter without lumps.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
Bake in a water bath: Using a water bath prevents the cheesecake from drying out and helps it bake evenly, leading to a creamy texture.
Cool gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open. This gradual cooling process reduces the chances of cracking.
Chill overnight: For the best flavor and texture, let your cheesecake chill overnight before serving. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
When enjoying Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, consider complementing it with these delicious side dishes. They enhance your dessert experience while adding variety to your spread.
Fruit Salad
A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness perfectly.Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses, like brie or gouda, offers savory contrast that pairs well with sweet desserts.Pecan Pie Bites
Mini pecan pies bring nutty richness that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy cheesecake.Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate adds texture and an interesting flavor twist.Caramel Sauce
Drizzling homemade caramel sauce over each slice introduces a luxurious sweetness.Gingerbread Cookies
These spiced cookies echo holiday flavors while providing a crunchy texture alongside creamy cheesecake.Pumpkin Spice Latte
This seasonal favorite pairs well as a beverage choice, enhancing the cozy dessert atmosphere.Mini Cheesecakes
Offering mini versions of different flavors creates an appealing dessert spread for guests to enjoy variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a sugar cookie cheesecake can be a joy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always remember to use room temperature ingredients like cream cheese and eggs. This helps achieve a smooth batter and even baking.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can introduce air into the batter, leading to cracks. Mix until just combined for the best results.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Keep an eye on your cheesecake as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to dry texture; it should still have a slight jiggle in the center.
- Skipping the Water Bath: A water bath prevents direct heat from the oven, which can cause cracks. Always use this method for a creamy cheesecake.
- Not Allowing Cooling Time: Let your cheesecake cool gradually after baking. Rapid cooling can cause it to crack, so patience is key.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about sugar cookie cheesecake that may help you during preparation.
What is Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Sugar cookie cheesecake combines a sweet sugar cookie crust with creamy cheesecake filling and delightful cookie dough pieces.
Can I customize my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Absolutely! You can add different flavors or toppings like chocolate chips or fruit based on your preference.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Using a water bath during baking will help maintain moisture and prevent cracks from forming on the surface.
What toppings go well with Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
You can top it with whipped cream, additional cookie dough balls, or even fresh berries for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
This sugar cookie cheesecake is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. With its creamy texture and festive flair from sprinkles, it’s perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Indulge in the festive delight of Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, the ultimate dessert for any celebration. This decadent treat features a buttery sugar cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling studded with sweet cookie dough bites, and a luscious white chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly adorned with colorful sprinkles, this cheesecake is not only visually stunning but also rich in flavor, making it an irresistible centerpiece for Christmas gatherings or any special occasion. With its unique blend of textures and tastes, Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 80 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (for the crust)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup white granulated sugar (for the crust)
- 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 (for the cookie dough filling)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup white granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 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 (for the ganache)
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Make the sugar cookie crust by mixing flour, baking soda, salt, butter, sugar, vanilla, egg, and sprinkles. Press into a springform pan.
- Prepare cookie dough balls by creaming butter and sugar, then mixing in flour, salt, milk, and sprinkles.
- For the cheesecake filling, beat cream cheese until smooth; blend in sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla, and eggs.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the crust; add cookie dough balls; top with remaining batter.
- Bake for about 80 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Cool before refrigerating for at least four hours.
- Prepare white chocolate ganache by heating heavy cream and stirring in chocolate chips until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
