Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

If you love the nostalgic joy of sugar cookies combined with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, then you are in for a real treat with this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. This delightful dessert perfectly blends the buttery, soft sweetness of classic sugar cookies into a rich, velvety cheesecake base, studded with festive sprinkles and topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache. It’s a showstopper that feels both comforting and elegant, making it an absolute must-bake for celebrations or simply whenever you crave something extraordinary and irresistibly fun.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is easier than you might think. Each ingredient plays a special role, whether it’s adding that tender crumb texture, the perfect level of sweetness, or that pop of festive color from the sprinkles. These simple essentials come together beautifully to create a memorable dessert.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for both the crust and cookie dough balls, ensuring structure and tenderness.
• Baking soda: Helps give the crust a slight lift and lightness.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and moisture to the dough and crust.
• Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome: A deeply flavorful sugar that sweetens and caramelizes beautifully.
• Pure vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to every bite.
• Large eggs and egg yolk (room temperature): Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• Christmas sprinkles (jimmies): Infuse fun, festive pops of color throughout the cheesecake.
• Sour cream (or Greek yogurt, room temperature): Adds tang and creaminess to the cheesecake filling.
• Heavy cream (room temperature): Keeps the cheesecake smooth and adds richness.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): The star of the cheesecake, making it silky and dreamy.
• White chocolate chips: For a divine ganache topping that’s sweet and glossy.
• Milk: Moistens the cookie dough balls for perfect texture.

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. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Then, cream the butter and cane sugar on high until fluffy, about 2 minutes, before blending in vanilla and eggs. Gently incorporate the dry ingredients and fold in the Christmas sprinkles. This dough forms the buttery, sweet base that sets the stage for the cheesecake. Press it evenly into the bottom of your springform pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Balls

While the crust is baking, it’s time to get those adorable cookie dough balls ready. Mix the flour and salt in one bowl, and in another, cream butter and cane sugar before blending in vanilla and milk. Combine the dry ingredients to make a soft dough, then stir in more Christmas sprinkles for that fun look. Roll the dough into dimple-sized balls on a wax-paper-lined sheet, then pop them into the freezer so they firm up properly. This step adds surprising texture and bursts of sugar cookie flavor embedded inside your creamy cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Batter

Reduce your oven temperature to 325℉, and start the water bath to create the perfect moist baking environment. Beat cream cheese and cane sugar until luxuriously smooth, making sure to scrape down the bowl so every bit is silky. Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla, mixing to a flawless texture without lumps. Add eggs last and stir just until combined to keep the batter light. Fold in two-thirds of your frozen cookie dough balls with care to distribute these delightful bites without breaking them apart.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake with a Water Bath

Pour the batter over your baked sugar cookie crust. Set up your water bath by either placing the springform pan inside a cake pan or wrapping it in foil before placing it in a roasting pan filled halfway with hot water. This gentle steam oven method helps prevent cracks and keeps the cheesecake creamy. Bake for 80 to 90 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly, signaling creamy perfection. Allow it to cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked, then chill overnight for the best texture and ease of slicing.

Step 5: Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache and Assemble

For the final flourish, melt white chocolate chips by pouring hot heavy cream over them and letting them sit before stirring into a smooth ganache. If needed, gently microwave in short bursts to achieve velvety consistency. After the cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the pan and parchment paper, then drizzle the ganache on top. Freeze for 10 minutes to set, then decorate with the remaining cookie dough balls and a sprinkle of festive jimmies. This luscious topping completes the impressive Sugar Cookie Cheesecake experience.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Garnishes

To enhance the festive sweetness, add a few extra Christmas sprinkles around the edges or even some edible glitter for sparkle. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries add a bright contrast that complements the rich cheesecake and white chocolate. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the presentation, making it look like a winter wonderland slice of joy.

Side Dishes

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake pairs wonderfully with lightly whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream, which brings another layer of creamy indulgence. For something a little lighter, fresh fruit salad or a drizzle of tart berry coulis balances the sweet and creamy flavors and cleanses the palate beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this cheesecake in wedges on individual plates with a small cookie on the side for extra charm. Or create a dessert buffet where slices rest beside bowls of colorful sprinkles, white chocolate curls, and mini whipped cream dollops, allowing guests to customize their slices. For a party, you can even prepare mini versions in ramekins for a personal touch that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, keep leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator to preserve freshness and prevent the cake from drying out. It stays delicious for up to 4-5 days, making it perfect for enjoying over several days or sharing with friends and family.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead or save some for later. Wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without compromising the creamy texture and sprinkle-studded charm.

Reheating

While cheesecake is best served chilled, if you prefer it slightly warmed, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before eating. Alternatively, warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt the ganache completely. This way, you enjoy that delightful balance of soft sweetness and creamy indulgence every time.

FAQs

Can I make the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake without the sprinkles?

Absolutely! While the sprinkles add a festive look and a bit of texture, you can easily omit them or substitute with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit according to your preference.

What’s the purpose of the water bath during baking?

The water bath creates a moist environment in the oven, which helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks from forming on the surface, ensuring a smooth and creamy final texture.

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

Yes, you can substitute with regular granulated white sugar, though the certified cane sugar adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the buttery cookie dough beautifully.

Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?

Chilling overnight is highly recommended because it allows the cheesecake to set fully, making it easier to slice and enhancing its rich, creamy texture.

How do I store leftover cookie dough balls?

Keep any unused cookie dough balls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw slightly for a few minutes before adding to recipes or baking.

Final Thoughts

Making this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is like giving yourself a big warm hug in dessert form. It’s vibrant, nostalgic, and indulgently creamy with delightful surprises in every bite. Whether it’s for a holiday treat, a special celebration, or just because you deserve something extraordinary, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to bake and share. Dive in and enjoy every sweet moment!

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