Sugar Cookie Cheesecake for Christmas

Nothing says “holiday indulgence” quite like a dessert that combines two festive favorites: sugar cookies and cheesecake. This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a show-stopper for Christmas, with a buttery sugar cookie crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and a sprinkle of sugar cookie crumbles on top.

It’s the perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert table, whether you’re hosting family, friends, or a cozy night in.

The sweet aroma of sugar cookies baking mingled with rich cheesecake will instantly make your kitchen feel like Christmas morning. You can even decorate the top with red and green sprinkles, edible stars, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra festive flair.

Easy to slice, gorgeous to serve, and utterly irresistible, this cheesecake is a Christmas dessert everyone will love — and it’s simple enough to make ahead so you can enjoy the holidays without stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Holiday Flavor – Sweet sugar cookie and creamy cheesecake combine for the ultimate festive dessert.
• Beautiful Presentation – Garnish with crumbles, sprinkles, or a drizzle of glaze for a Pinterest-worthy look.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Bake in advance for stress-free holiday entertaining.
• Kid-Friendly – A sweet treat that children will adore helping decorate.
• Impress Guests – Looks like a bakery dessert, but made right at home!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups crushed sugar cookies (about 12 cookies)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

• ½ cup sugar cookie crumbles
• Red and green sprinkles or festive decorations
• Optional: powdered sugar or drizzle of white chocolate

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Make the crust: Combine crushed sugar cookies and melted butter in a bowl. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
3. Prepare cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream until creamy and combined.
4. Pour filling over cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool for 30 minutes.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
7. Decorate: Top with sugar cookie crumbles, sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can cause cracks — mix just until combined.
• Even Slices: Use a hot, wet knife to cut clean slices.
• Make Ahead: Cheesecake tastes even better the next day — perfect for holiday entertaining.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought sugar cookies?
Yes! Just crush them finely for the crust and sprinkle some on top for decoration.

2. Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

3. Can I make mini cheesecakes?
Yes! Divide filling into lined muffin tins and adjust baking to 18–20 minutes.

4. Can I use flavored sugar cookies?
Vanilla works best, but cinnamon or holiday-spiced cookies add festive flair.

5. How long does it stay fresh?
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days — it actually gets creamier after a day!

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake combines a buttery sugar cookie crust with creamy cheesecake filling, topped with festive crumbles and sprinkles — a show-stopping Christmas dessert! Perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or a cozy festive treat at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Chill Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 5 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12

Course: Dessert

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

2 cups crushed sugar cookies (about 12 cookies)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted

Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup heavy cream

Topping:

• ½ cup sugar cookie crumbles
• Red & green sprinkles optional
• Powdered sugar or white chocolate drizzle optional

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line bottom with parchment.
2. Make crust: Mix cookie crumbs + melted butter. Press into pan. Bake 8–10 min. Cool slightly.
3. Make filling: Beat cream cheese + sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream.
4. Assemble: Pour filling over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake: 40–45 min until center is set. Let cool 30 min with oven door slightly open.
6. Chill: Refrigerate ≥4 hours, preferably overnight.
7. Decorate: Sprinkle crumbles, add festive sprinkles, or drizzle white chocolate.

Notes

• Room-temp ingredients = smooth filling.
• Don’t overmix to avoid cracks.
• Use hot, wet knife for clean slices.
• Make ahead — flavors improve after chilling.