Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

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If you have a sweet tooth that loves a nostalgic twist, the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is an absolute dream come true. Combining the buttery, sprinkle-studded joy of classic sugar cookies with the rich, creamy indulgence of cheesecake, this dessert is like a warm hug from your favorite holiday memories all wrapped up in one unforgettable slice. Whether you’re sharing it with family, showing off to friends, or just treating yourself, this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake delivers festive fun, silky texture, and a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is as easy as pie, because the ingredients are simple yet vital for delivering that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each ingredient contributes its magic—from the soft cream cheese base to the joyful sprinkle accents that bring color and cheer.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure for both the crust and cookie dough balls, giving that tender yet sturdy bite.
• Baking soda: A small leavening touch to keep the crust light and nicely textured.
• Salt: Enhances sweetness and balances out the flavors beautifully.
• Unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome: Sweetens naturally while contributing subtle caramel notes for depth.
• Pure vanilla extract: Delivers warm, aromatic flavor that complements both cookie and cheesecake layers.
• Large eggs (room temperature): Provide structure and creaminess in the cheesecake filling and dough.
• Egg yolk (room temperature): Adds luxurious richness to the crust.
• Christmas sprinkles (jimmies): Scatter festive bursts of color and delight throughout the dessert.
• Milk: Helps create tender cookie dough balls with just the right softness.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): The star of the cheesecake—creamy, tangy, and utterly smooth.
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt, room temperature): Adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances sweetness.
• Heavy cream (room temperature): Enriches the cheesecake and helps create a luscious white chocolate ganache.
• White chocolate chips: For the luscious, glossy ganache topping that adds richness and sweetness glow.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ and prepping a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper—this sets the stage for a flawless crust. Mix the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl and set aside. Cream butter and sugar on high speed until fluffy, then add vanilla, egg, and egg yolk to combine. Gently fold in your dry ingredients along with those cheerful Christmas sprinkles for that classic sugar cookie look. Press this dough evenly across the bottom of your pan and bake until golden, about 25-30 minutes—this crust is the perfect buttery base holding so much delicious potential.

Step 2: Create the Cookie Dough Balls

While your crust bakes, mix flour and salt separately. Cream butter and sugar again until light, adding vanilla and milk before stirring in the dry mix and sprinkles. Roll this dough into tiny balls—around the size of a dime to a nickel—for small bursts of cookie delight inside your cheesecake. Freeze these dough balls on wax paper until firm, stopping any premature melting or spreading, so they hold their shape perfectly throughout baking.

Step 3: Mix and Bake the Cheesecake Filling

Lower the oven temperature to 325℉ and start your water bath for gentle, even baking. Beat cream cheese and sugar until perfectly smooth, scraping to avoid lumps, then blend in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla for that luscious creaminess. Slowly incorporate eggs on low speed to maintain a silky texture, then fold in two-thirds of your frozen cookie dough balls without breaking them apart. Pour this rich filling over your baked sugar cookie crust, then nestle your springform pan in your prepared water bath. Bake for 80-90 minutes until edges are set with a slight jiggle in the center—this technique prevents cracks and results in the creamiest cheesecake ever.

Step 4: Chill and Prepare White Chocolate Ganache

Once your cheesecake has cooled in the oven and fully chilled in the fridge overnight (patience here is key!), it’s time for the glamorous finishing touch: white chocolate ganache. Heat heavy cream until steaming and pour over white chocolate chips, letting them melt slowly into a decadent sauce. Stir gently till smooth, reheating briefly if needed. Pour this glossy ganache over your chilled cheesecake and pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.

Step 5: Finish with Cookie Dough Balls and Sprinkles

Finally, scatter the remaining cookie dough balls and a festive handful of Christmas sprinkles atop your ganache-topped cheesecake for an irresistible presentation. This last touch adds texture, visual joy, and a bit of extra cookie crunch to every bite.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Garnishes

To elevate your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake even more, consider toppings like whipped cream, extra sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that winter-wonderland vibe. Fresh berries or edible gold flakes can also add a touch of elegance if you’re celebrating something special.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake is quite the showstopper, but pairing it with a bright raspberry coulis or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can add a refreshing contrast that balances its rich sweetness. A cup of strong coffee or peppermint tea also pairs beautifully for cozy dessert indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake into individual mini portions and serve in clear glasses layered with whipped cream for an impressive trifle twist. Or, use cookie cutters to create festive shapes from leftover cheesecake slices for holiday gatherings. Presentation matters, and this dessert shines whether plated simply or dressed up for the occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and freshness. Wrapped well, it stays delicious for up to 4-5 days—though we suspect it won’t last that long!

Freezing

For longer storage, this cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When properly frozen, it maintains excellent flavor and texture for up to two months.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so rather than reheating, allow frozen slices to thaw overnight in the fridge. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, bring them to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as this can change the texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar?

Absolutely! Regular granulated sugar will work just fine in this recipe. The certified cane sugar adds a lovely natural depth and supports sustainable farming, but any fine sugar will still make your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake delicious.

Do I have to use a water bath for baking?

The water bath is essential for the smoothest, crack-free cheesecake with that iconic creamy texture. It creates moist, gentle heat surrounding your cake, preventing overbaking edges and undercooked centers. If you skip it, you might notice cracks and a drier texture.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead for a party?

Definitely! This cheesecake actually benefits from chilling overnight to develop full flavor and firmness. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert that you can prepare a day or two in advance, making your party prep easier.

What if I don’t have Christmas sprinkles? Can I substitute?

You can swap in any colorful jimmies or even nonpareils to keep that festive sparkle. If sprinkles aren’t available, mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts can add interesting texture though it won’t have quite the same playful look.

Is it okay to use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt makes a perfect substitute! It keeps the cheesecake moist with a touch of tanginess. Just ensure it’s full fat or thick for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something truly magical about this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake that feels like a celebration in every bite. From the buttery cookie crust to the luscious, sprinkle-studded filling and silky white chocolate topping, it’s a dessert that brings joy and warmth no matter the occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make your gatherings just a little sweeter and a lot more memorable!

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