Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake: A Creamy, Festive Holiday Dessert

Christmas brings a sense of warmth that fills every corner of the home. The kitchen glows with the smell of sugar, spice, and butter. This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a dessert that captures that feeling in every bite. It combines the creamy smoothness of cheesecake with the soft sweetness of sugar cookies. The result is a treat that looks beautiful and tastes like pure celebration.

If you love festive baking, you might also enjoy my Christmas Cranberry Orange Cookies. They share the same bright holiday charm and bring a sweet balance of flavor to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This cheesecake has everything you could want in a holiday dessert. The base is made from crushed sugar cookies, giving it a buttery, crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Each bite melts gently with notes of vanilla and cream. The top layer can be decorated with whipped cream, sprinkles, or even small sugar cookie pieces for a cheerful finish.

You’ll love this recipe because it’s:

• Smooth, rich, and not overly sweet
• Made with easy-to-find ingredients
• A showstopper for Christmas parties or family gatherings
• Great for making ahead since it chills overnight
• Flexible for different decorations and cookie toppings

Whether you make it for Christmas Eve or a cozy weekend at home, this cheesecake always brings joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust

• 2 cups crushed sugar cookies (about 18 cookies)
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
• Festive sprinkles or sugar cookie pieces for garnish

This combination creates a dessert that’s creamy and sweet with a slight crunch from the crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan lightly with butter. In a medium bowl, mix the crushed sugar cookies, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the texture resembles damp sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, pressing it slightly up the sides. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the cheesecake batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is important because lumps will make the texture uneven. Add sugar and mix again until light and fluffy. Next, add the sour cream, vanilla, flour, and salt. Beat until everything is blended well. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Do not overbeat, as too much air can cause cracks during baking.

Step 3: Pour and smooth
Pour the batter over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any trapped air bubbles.

Step 4: Bake the cheesecake
Place the pan in the center of the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight wobble. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for another 30 minutes. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.

Step 5: Chill to set
After removing it from the oven, let the cheesecake cool completely on the counter. Once it reaches room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step lets the flavors deepen and the texture become smooth and firm.

Step 6: Decorate for the season
Before serving, spread whipped cream on top of the chilled cheesecake. Add festive sprinkles, sugar cookie pieces, or crushed candy canes. You can also pipe the whipped cream in small swirls around the edge for a more elegant look.

Step 7: Slice and serve
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices. Wipe the knife between each cut. Each slice shows the smooth cream layer above the crumbly cookie crust, a picture of Christmas comfort on a plate.

Helpful Tips

• Always bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. It makes the filling smoother.
• Avoid overmixing the batter once the eggs are added to prevent cracks.
• Bake with a water bath if you want extra insurance against cracks. Wrap the pan in foil and place it in a larger pan with an inch of hot water.
• Let the cheesecake cool slowly for the best texture.
• Use real vanilla extract for a richer flavor.

Storage and Serving Ideas

To Store:
Keep the cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to five days. Store slices in airtight containers to prevent them from absorbing fridge odors.

To Freeze:
You can freeze the cheesecake whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. It will keep for up to two months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

To Serve:
Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed cookies, or a drizzle of caramel. You can even pair it with a warm drink for a comforting winter dessert.

Flavor Variations

• Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty undertone.
• Mix in crushed peppermint candies for a peppermint sugar cookie twist.
• Swirl a spoonful of raspberry jam into the batter before baking for color and tartness.
• Use chocolate sugar cookies for a deeper flavor.

Each variation adds a different touch, making this recipe versatile for every celebration.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cookie dough for the crust?
Yes, you can bake a thin layer of sugar cookie dough in the pan instead of crushed cookies. Just cool it completely before adding the filling.

What if my cheesecake cracks?
Don’t worry. Cover it with whipped cream or cookie crumbles. It will still taste wonderful.

Can I make this without sour cream?
You can replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter texture.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but full-fat gives the creamiest result.

Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes, this dessert is best when made a day ahead since chilling improves the texture and flavor.

Closing Thoughts

Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a dessert that feels like the holiday season baked into every slice. It’s creamy, comforting, and beautifully festive. The sugar cookie crust brings a nostalgic touch, while the cheesecake filling adds pure richness.

When you bring this to the table, it becomes more than just dessert, it becomes a part of the celebration. Pair it with hot chocolate or coffee and enjoy the quiet joy of a homemade treat. If you want to keep the holiday baking spirit going, try my Festive Christmas Bread next. Together, they make a cozy Christmas spread that’s as warm as the season itself.