This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the joy of the holiday season. With its sweet sugar cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling studded with cookie dough balls, and a luscious white chocolate ganache, this dessert is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering. Ideal for Christmas celebrations or festive dinners, it combines playful flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sugar cookies and cheesecake offers a deliciously sweet experience.
- Perfect for Celebrations: This cheesecake is a festive addition to any holiday table.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is straightforward for bakers of all levels.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
- Decadent Texture: The creamy filling paired with the crunchy crust creates an amazing contrast.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your sugar cookie cheesecake, ensure you have the right tools on hand for smooth preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch springform pan
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort in mixing ingredients evenly to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its delicate structure.
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 Sugar Cookie Dough Balls
- 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)
For the Topping
- 3/4 Cookie dough balls
- 1 cup White chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup Heavy cream
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat together room-temperature unsalted butter and white granulated sugar until creamy. Add vanilla extract, large egg, and egg yolk; mix well. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until combined. Fold in Christmas sprinkles.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Press the crust mixture evenly into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough Balls
In a bowl, cream together unsalted butter and white granulated sugar until fluffy. Add milk, vanilla extract, salt, and flour; mix until smooth. Fold in Christmas sprinkles. Roll into small balls and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add white granulated sugar followed by sour cream and heavy cream; mix until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Gently fold in cookie dough balls.
Step 5: Assemble & Bake
Pour cheesecake filling over cooled crust in springform pan. Smooth out with a spatula. Bake in preheated oven for about 60-80 minutes or until edges are set but center is still slightly jiggly.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Turn off the oven and crack open the door to let cheesecake cool gradually inside for about an hour. Remove from oven once cooled; refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight before serving. Top with white chocolate ganache made by melting white chocolate chips with heavy cream over low heat.
Enjoy your deliciously festive Sugar Cookie Cheesecake!
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Serving sugar cookie cheesecake can be a delightful experience, especially during festive occasions. Here are some fun suggestions to elevate your dessert presentation and enjoyment.
Festive Platter
- Arrange slices on a decorative platter with Christmas sprinkles around the edges for a colorful touch.
- Add small bowls of extra cookie dough balls for guests to top their slices.
Whipped Cream Delight
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra holiday flavor.
Pair with Hot Chocolate
- Offer a warm cup of hot chocolate alongside each slice.
- Top the hot chocolate with marshmallows or candy canes for a cozy treat.
Ice Cream Accompaniment
- Pair your cheesecake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate syrup for an indulgent touch.
Seasonal Fruit Garnish
- Serve with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast.
- Consider adding slices of orange or kiwi for a festive color pop.
Coffee Pairing
- Brew a pot of rich, dark coffee to complement the sweetness of the cheesecake.
- Offer different flavors like vanilla or hazelnut creamer for variety.
How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Perfecting your sugar cookie cheesecake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dessert shines at any gathering.
Use room temperature ingredients: Allow cream cheese, eggs, and butter to reach room temperature before mixing. This ensures smoother batter and better texture.
Mix gently: When combining ingredients, mix until just blended. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your cheesecake.
Check doneness carefully: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done baking. It will firm up as it cools.
Cool gradually: After baking, let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar. This helps prevent cracking from sudden temperature changes.
Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Complementing your sugar cookie cheesecake with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits that balances the richness of the cheesecake.
- Cheese Board: Include a selection of cheeses and nuts to add savory elements alongside sweetness.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Sweet and salty bites that provide crunch and flavor contrast.
- Mini Cupcakes: Offer small cupcakes in various flavors for variety without overwhelming portions.
- Pecan Pie Bars: Another sweet treat that pairs well during holiday gatherings.
- Candied Nuts: Sweet and crunchy nuts make an excellent finger food alongside dessert.
These suggestions will help you create a memorable dining experience centered around your sugar cookie cheesecake!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a sugar cookie cheesecake can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
Incorrect ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy cheesecake. Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and other ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Overmixing the batter: This can introduce too much air, causing cracks during baking. Mix just until combined to achieve a creamy texture.
Skipping the cooling process: Cutting into your cheesecake too soon can result in a soggy crust. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for the best results.
Not using parchment paper: Failing to line your pan can make removal difficult. Use parchment paper for easy lifting and clean slices.
Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven setting may lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep the sugar cookie cheesecake in an airtight container.
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making sugar cookie cheesecake.
Can I use flavored cream cheese for my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Yes! Flavored cream cheese can add an extra layer of taste. Consider options like vanilla or almond for a delightful twist.
How do I prevent cracks in my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
To minimize cracks, avoid overmixing and ensure you bake it slowly at a lower temperature. A water bath also helps maintain moisture during baking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What toppings complement Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
You can enhance your cheesecake with whipped cream, additional cookie dough balls, or fresh fruit like berries for contrast.
How should I serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with coffee or tea for an enjoyable dessert experience!
Final Thoughts
This sugar cookie cheesecake is not only festive but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to bring joy and satisfaction. Give it a try!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Indulge in the festive joy of this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, a delightful dessert combining the sweetness of sugar cookies with a rich cheesecake filling. Nestled in a buttery, cookie-studded crust, this cheesecake features creamy layers filled with cookie dough balls and is topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, this treat is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 80 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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)
- 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)
- 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
- 1 cup White chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup Heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the crust by mixing flour, baking soda, and salt in one bowl; creaming butter and sugar in another. Combine and fold in sprinkles.
- Bake crust for 12 minutes; let cool.
- Make cookie dough balls by creaming butter and sugar; mix in remaining ingredients and roll into small balls.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar, sour cream, heavy cream; mix in eggs one at a time and fold in cookie dough balls.
- Pour filling over cooled crust and bake for 60-80 minutes until edges are set.
- Cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating for at least four hours. Top with melted white chocolate ganache.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (104g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
