Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake, perfect for any festive occasion. With its scrumptious sugar cookie crust and creamy filling that features sugar cookie dough balls, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache and more cookie dough, this dessert brings joy to holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. Its vibrant appearance and rich flavors make it a standout dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Festive Look: The colorful Christmas sprinkles add a cheerful touch, making it perfect for holiday celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can master this recipe with ease.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for Christmas, birthdays, or any special event where you want to impress your guests.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream results in an indulgently smooth cheesecake.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this sugar cookie cheesecake, gather the necessary tools for a seamless baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch springform pan
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Speeds up the mixing process and ensures a smooth batter.
• Springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its structure.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

Ingredients

To create this delightful sugar cookie cheesecake, gather the following 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 Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome
• 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 Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 5 TBSP Milk
• 1/3 cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 32 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome
• 3/4 cup Sour cream (room temperature or greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream (room temperature)
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 4 Large eggs (room temperature)
• 2/3 Cookie dough balls

For the White Chocolate Ganache

• 1 cup White chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup Heavy cream

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat room-temperature butter with cane sugar until light and fluffy. Add in vanilla extract, egg, egg yolk, and mix well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Stir in Christmas sprinkles.

Press the dough firmly into the bottom of a greased springform pan. Bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Balls

In a bowl, mix flour with salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and cane sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and milk; mix until combined. Gradually stir in flour mixture followed by Christmas sprinkles until a soft dough forms. Roll into small balls and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with cane sugar until creamy. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.

Fold in cookie dough balls carefully into the cheesecake mixture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in your springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 60–70 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour.

Step 5: Make White Chocolate Ganache

In a saucepan over low heat, combine white chocolate chips with heavy cream until melted and smooth. Allow cooling slightly before pouring over cooled cheesecake.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least four hours or overnight for best results. When ready to serve, slice into pieces and garnish with additional cookie dough balls if desired. Enjoy your delicious sugar cookie cheesecake!

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This delightful sugar cookie cheesecake is a showstopper that can be served in various delicious ways. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a cozy family meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a decorative plate to highlight the cheesecake’s beautiful layers and textures.

With Fresh Berries

• Top your slices with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and added freshness.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture that complements the rich cheesecake.

Drizzled Ganache

• Drizzle additional white chocolate ganache over the top before serving for an indulgent touch.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream to create a delightful contrast in flavors and temperatures.

How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

To ensure your sugar cookie cheesecake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all dairy products like cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding eggs to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
• Use a Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps maintain moisture and prevents cracking during the baking process.
• Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar for about an hour after baking. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Pairing side dishes with your sugar cookie cheesecake can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to balance the richness of the cheesecake.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   These sweet treats offer a delightful chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake.
3. Creamy Vanilla Pudding
   A light vanilla pudding provides an extra layer of sweetness while maintaining a smooth texture.
4. Nutty Granola
   Crunchy granola sprinkled on top adds texture and contrasts nicely with the soft cheesecake.
5. Coffee or Tea
   A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can enhance dessert time, offering warmth and depth against the sweetness of the cheesecake.
6. Mini Fruit Tarts
   These bite-sized desserts provide variety and showcase different flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Sugar Cookie Cheesecake can be delightful, but here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to a dense cheesecake. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients – Cold ingredients can cause lumps. Ensure butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature.
• Not preparing the crust properly – An unprepared crust can crumble. Press it firmly into the pan and pre-bake for best results.
• Baking at the wrong temperature – An uneven temperature can cause cracks. Always preheat your oven fully before baking.
• Ignoring cooling time – Rushing to cut can lead to a messy slice. Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

• Oven – Preheat to 325°F (160°C) and heat slices for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat each slice on low power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, read on!

Can I use other flavors of cookies?

Yes! You can customize the crust with any cookie flavor you like, such as chocolate chip or gingerbread.

How do I avoid cracks in my cheesecake?

To prevent cracks, bake your cheesecake in a water bath and avoid overmixing your batter.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or additional sour cream for a lighter option.

Is it necessary to use sprinkles?

No, sprinkles are optional. You can omit them or replace them with edible glitter or chopped nuts.

How long will this cheesecake last?

When stored properly, your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is not only festive but also versatile, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging yourself. Feel free to customize it with different toppings or flavors, making each batch uniquely yours. Enjoy baking!