Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

There’s something irresistibly festive and comforting about a dessert that combines the buttery goodness of sugar cookies with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, and that’s exactly what this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake delivers. This dessert is a joyful celebration of texture and flavor, with a crisp sugar cookie crust, a velvety cheesecake filled with sprinkles and cookie dough bites, and a luscious white chocolate ganache crowning the top. Every slice offers a delightful bite that feels like a special occasion baked into one stunning treat. Whether you’re making it for the holidays or any day you want to feel a little extra warm and fuzzy, this is one recipe that brings smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake keeps things wonderfully simple but relies on some key ingredients to build its signature flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role, from the all-purpose flour that forms the perfect base to the creamy cheeses that lend richness and depth.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of both the crust and cookie dough, giving structure without heaviness.
• Baking soda: Helps the sugar cookie crust rise just enough to be tender and soft.
• Salt: A pinch to balance sweetness and enhance every flavor sensation.
• Unsalted butter (room temperature): Key for that rich, smooth texture in the cookie crust and dough.
• Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome: Provides natural sweetness with a lovely caramel hint.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds warm aromatic notes that elevate the whole cheesecake.
• Large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together and give that creamy cheesecake body.
• Christmas sprinkles (jimmies): Bring a playful pop of color and fun to the batter and dough balls.
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt): Adds a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness beautifully.
• Heavy cream: Enhances smoothness and adds luxurious mouthfeel to the cheesecake and ganache.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): The star ingredient that creates the classic creamy cheesecake texture.
• White chocolate chips: Melted into a ganache, they contribute a sweet, luscious finish.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ and lining a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, then lightly spray it to prevent sticking. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Meanwhile, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add your vanilla, egg, and egg yolk. Slowly fold in the dry ingredients, then your Christmas sprinkles for that festive touch. Press this dough firmly into the bottom of your pan – no need for sides – and bake until golden, about 25 to 30 minutes. This is your crunchy, buttery foundation that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling ahead.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Balls

While the crust bakes, you’ll prepare the cookie dough balls that create pockets of chewy surprise inside the cheesecake. Blend flour and salt separately, then cream butter and sugar until light before adding vanilla and milk. Incorporate the dry ingredients and sprinkles gently. Roll the dough into tiny balls about the size of a dime or nickel – enlist family or friends for this fun task! Freeze these balls; they need to stay firm for the filling stage.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Batter

Lower the oven temperature to 325℉ and prepare your water bath. Beat cream cheese and sugar until perfectly smooth, scraping the sides to avoid lumps. Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla for that rich, tangy creaminess. Slowly add eggs, mixing just until combined, and fold in two-thirds of your cookie dough balls. This batter is where the magic happens—creamy, colorful, and full of texture.

Step 4: Bake Your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Pour the batter over your prebaked crust carefully. Set up your water bath either by placing the springform pan inside a larger cake pan or by wrapping it in foil and setting it inside a roasting pan filled halfway with hot water—both methods help prevent cracking and keep the baking gentle. Bake for 80 to 90 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Then, cool with the oven door cracked and chill overnight to let the flavors really meld and the texture fully set.

Step 5: Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache and Finish

For the crowning glory, melt white chocolate chips by pouring hot cream over them and stirring until smooth. If needed, gently microwave in short bursts to eliminate chunks. Once your cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the pan and parchment, pour over the ganache, and return it to the freezer for a quick chill. Finally, decorate with the remaining cookie dough balls and a sprinkle of festive jimmies—instantly transforming your cheesecake into a holiday showstopper.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Garnishes

This cheesecake is already bursting with charm, but extra garnishes can take it even further. Think delicate dustings of powdered sugar, a handful of fresh cranberries, or even tiny edible gold stars for a touch of sparkle. These simple touches highlight the playful and festive spirit of the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.

Side Dishes

Pair this luscious cheesecake with fresh berries to brighten each bite, or a light vanilla bean whipped cream that echoes the rich vanilla flavors in the cake. If you want a beverage pairing, a creamy latte or a glass of cold milk creates the perfect cozy combination.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the cheesecake into bars and serve on a festive platter with extra cookie dough balls nestled around the edges. Or, elevate individual portions in clear dessert glasses layered with berry compote and a crumbly sprinkle of leftover crust for an elegant yet approachable presentation that invites guests to indulge.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover Sugar Cookie Cheesecake can be tightly covered and kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures the cheesecake stays moist and fresh, allowing you to enjoy every crumb without worry.

Freezing

Freeze the cheesecake if you want to keep it longer. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly softened slice, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture and cause the ganache to separate.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While the Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar adds a unique depth and ethical touch, regular granulated sugar will work just fine and still give you great results.

Do I have to use Christmas sprinkles? Can I omit them?

You can definitely skip the sprinkles if you want a more classic look, but they add such a fun pop of color and mood—especially for festive occasions—that we highly recommend keeping them in!

What type of pan works best for this cheesecake?

A 9-inch springform pan is ideal for easy removal and that beautiful tall shape. The water bath method works best in this pan to ensure even baking and prevent cracks.

Can I make this cheesecake without the cookie dough balls inside?

Yes, though the cookie dough balls make this cheesecake extra special by adding surprise pockets of chewy sweetness. Without them, it will be more like a traditional sugar cookie flavored cheesecake but still delicious.

How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake top?

Using a water bath to gently bake the cheesecake and allowing it to cool gradually with the oven door slightly cracked helps prevent cracks by regulating temperature and moisture. Also, avoid overmixing the batter or opening the oven door abruptly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that brings joy, nostalgia, and a bit of whimsy, this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake should be your next kitchen adventure. It’s a crowd-pleaser that blends familiar flavors in a brand-new way, sure to become a treasured favorite for your family and friends. So grab your mixer and sprinkles, and let’s bake some magic together!

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