Sugar Cookie Cheesecake That Brings Holiday Magic to Every Slice

Last Updated on November 23, 2025 by Chef Josie

If there is one dessert that embodies the joy, color, and sweetness of the holiday season, it is this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. With its creamy vanilla cheesecake base baked over a soft sugar cookie crust and topped with festive sprinkles, it captures the playful spirit of Christmas Cookies Recipes while offering the indulgent richness of a classic holiday cheesecake. Whether you are planning Christmas Sweets for a party, Easy Christmas Desserts for a gathering, or Christmas Cheesecake Recipes to impress your guests, this dessert is a show stopper.

My first version of this cheesecake emerged during a holiday baking night with friends. We had been making batches of sugar cookies, and one spare roll of dough inspired this cheesecake experiment. When it emerged from the oven, topped with frosting and colorful sprinkles, it looked like pure holiday cheer on a plate. One slice later, we unanimously agreed that this cheesecake needed to be part of every Christmas Desserts Ideas list from that moment on.

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is soft, creamy, nostalgic, and perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, Christmas Eve gatherings, and winter celebrations.

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Why You Will Love This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

• A festive twist on Home Made Cheesecake Recipe classics
• Simple enough for Easy Christmas Treats yet show stopping for holiday parties
• Combines two beloved desserts: cheesecake and sugar cookies
• Perfect for Christmas Dessert Cheesecake lovers
• Ideal for Christmas Food Ideas when you need a crowd pleasing sweet
• Customizable with colored sprinkles or flavored frosting
• A great dessert for kids and adults at any holiday event

Ingredients Breakdown

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake uses pantry friendly ingredients with holiday flair.

• Sugar cookie dough: Forms the sweet and tender crust
• Cream cheese: The heart of any rich cheesecake
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering
• Sour cream: Adds smoothness and tang
• Eggs: Help the cheesecake set perfectly
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sugar cookie flavor
• Whipped topping or homemade frosting: For a soft, creamy topping
• Holiday sprinkles: Add color and festive charm

Substitutions

• Use shortbread cookie dough for a richer crust
• Replace vanilla with almond extract for winter flavor
• Add peppermint extract for a Hot Cocoa Cheesecake twist
• Use no bake cheesecake filling for a Christmas Cheesecake Recipes No Bake version

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and grease a springform pan.
2. Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the crust slightly until just set, then cool.
4. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
5. Add sour cream and vanilla and continue mixing.
6. Add eggs one at a time and mix until just combined.
7. Pour the filling over the cooled sugar cookie crust.
8. Bake the cheesecake slowly until the center is just set.
9. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
10. Top with whipped topping or frosting and cover with festive sprinkles before serving.

Notes and Top Tips

• Do not overbeat the eggs to avoid cracks
• Let ingredients reach room temperature for a smooth filling
• Use a water bath for extra even baking
• Chill the cheesecake for at least four hours
• Add sprinkles right before serving so colors stay bright
• For Pillsbury Cookie Cheesecake convenience, use store bought dough

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Ideas

• Serve with hot cocoa for a cozy holiday dessert pairing
• Add as the centerpiece to any Holiday Baking spread
• Pair with decorated Christmas cookies for extra charm

Variations

• Chocolate chip cookie crust for a more indulgent twist
• Peppermint frosting for a winter flavor
• Funfetti Christmas version with sprinkles baked into the filling
• Hot Cocoa Cheesecake style with cocoa powder and mini marshmallows

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate cheesecake for up to five days
• Freeze slices individually for quick holiday treats
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
• Keep covered to prevent drying or absorbing odors

Why You Will Make It Again

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake blends the cozy nostalgia of holiday cookies with the creamy indulgence of a traditional cheesecake. It is perfect for Christmas Sweets, Holiday Baking, Easy Christmas Desserts, and festive parties. If you bake this recipe, leave a comment and explore more Christmas Dessert Cheesecake ideas on the blog.

FAQs

Can I make this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes. Cheesecake tastes better after chilling overnight, making it perfect for holiday prep.

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough?
Absolutely. Store bought or homemade both work well.

Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overmixing or baking too quickly can cause cracks. A water bath helps prevent this.

Can I turn this into a no bake cheesecake?
Yes. Bake only the crust, then fill with no bake cheesecake mixture and chill.

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