Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – A Holiday Dessert Dream Come True
If Christmas had a flavor, it would surely be the sweet, buttery taste of sugar cookies combined with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert: a festive, indulgent treat that brings together the nostalgia of holiday cookies and the decadence of a classic cheesecake. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, potlucks, or as the star of your holiday table, this recipe will leave your family and guests asking for seconds.
Let’s dive into the full recipe with detailed steps, tips, and creative decoration ideas to make it unforgettable!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
- Festive and Fun: Combines sugar cookies with cheesecake for a Christmas-themed twist.
- Customizable: Add holiday sprinkles, candy canes, or gingerbread men on top.
- Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: Cheesecake sets best when chilled, so it’s a stress-free holiday dessert you can prep in advance.
Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookie Crust:
- 2 cups sugar cookie crumbs (about 20 sugar cookies, crushed into fine crumbs)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for a silky, creamy texture)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (helps stabilize the cheesecake)
For Topping & Decoration (Optional but Recommended):
- Whipped cream
- Holiday sprinkles
- Mini sugar cookies or Christmas-shaped cookies
- Crushed candy canes or white chocolate shavings
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed sugar cookies with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack it tightly.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the granulated sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating (this helps prevent cracks).
- Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even mixture.
3. Assemble & Bake
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled sugar cookie crust and spread it evenly.
- Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water leakage. Place the pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the springform pan (this is a water bath to keep your cheesecake moist and crack-free).
- Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracks.
4. Chill & Decorate
- After cooling, remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
- Just before serving, top with swirls of whipped cream, a sprinkle of holiday sprinkles, and garnish with mini sugar cookies or crushed candy canes.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Cheesecake
- Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Don’t skip the water bath—it ensures a silky, crack-free cheesecake.
- For extra holiday flavor, add 1 teaspoon almond extract or stir in some crushed sugar cookies into the filling.
- Make ahead: Cheesecake tastes even better after chilling overnight, so prepare it a day before your Christmas dinner!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or mulled wine for the ultimate holiday pairing.
- Add a drizzle of white chocolate ganache or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, neat slices.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is not just a dessert—it’s a holiday centerpiece. With its crunchy sugar cookie crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and festive toppings, it’s a guaranteed showstopper. Whether you’re hosting a big Christmas feast or having a cozy family gathering, this cheesecake will bring the joy (and sweetness!) of the season straight to your table.