Who doesn’t love a creamy, dreamy cheesecake, especially around the holidays? This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats recipe is my own Texan spin on a classic, perfect for Christmas dinner ideas or any gathering. It’s got that familiar sugar cookie flavor we all adore, swirled into a rich cheesecake base. Want a dessert that’s impressive but easy? Y’all are gonna love this.
Top Reasons To Make It
This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a winner for so many reasons! It’s a delightful twist on regular cheesecake recipes for Christmas, offering a unique flavor profile. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, saving you precious time on the day of your Christmas dinner or any gathering. And frankly, it looks absolutely stunning on a dessert table–guaranteed to wow your guests. So good.
Ingredients
- Sugar Cookies: For that irresistible holiday flavor base.
- Cream Cheese: Because it wouldn’t be cheesecake without it!
- Sugar: To sweeten the deal (of course!).
- Eggs: To bind and create that perfect creamy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: For a touch of warmth and classic vanilla goodness.
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Butter: Richness and flavor–need I say more?
Measurements for all ingredients are listed below in the recipe card.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush the sugar cookies into fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter and press into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. Gently fold in the sour cream.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the sugar cookie crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is just set. Let cool completely.
- Once cooled, run a knife around the edges to loosen the cheesecake before releasing the springform pan. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to make it your own? Try adding a swirl of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing zing. If you’re watching your sugar intake, sugar substitutes can work well in both the crust and filling. And for a truly festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or chopped nuts over the top before serving. Gluten-free? Get creative with your crust – a gluten-free cookie crumble will do the trick!
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is divine on its own, but if you want to elevate it, pair it with a warm cup of hot cocoa. Christmas dessert cheesecake and hot chocolate? Match made in heaven. It’s also delicious with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. Considering xmas dinner dessert ideas or gathering dessert ideas? This one will steal the show!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave. Be sure not to overheat, to avoid a rubbery texture. Safety first: always check that your cheesecake is properly chilled before serving, especially after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make individual Christmas cheesecake cupcakes instead of one large cheesecake? A: Absolutely! Just divide the crust and filling into muffin tins and reduce the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake as a Christmas dessert cheesecake in advance of my Christmas dinner ideas? A: Yes! It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert. Simply bake and chill it completely before the big day.
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake-Stephanie’s Sweet Treats offers a fabulous twist on a beloved dessert. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does.
Print
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (+ chill time)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a dreamy, festive dessert that blends the nostalgia of classic sugar cookies with the creamy indulgence of rich cheesecake. It’s the perfect holiday centerpiece—sweet, tangy, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
2 cups crushed sugar cookies (about 20 cookies)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Crush the sugar cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix with melted butter until evenly combined.
3. Press the cookie mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Fold in the sour cream gently until just combined.
7. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are slightly golden.
9. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
10. Remove from oven, run a knife around the edges, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
Top with whipped cream, crushed sugar cookies, or festive sprinkles for extra holiday flair.
You can also use store-bought sugar cookie dough for a shortcut crust—just bake slightly before adding the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: sugar cookie cheesecake, holiday cheesecake, Christmas dessert, cookie crust cheesecake