If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the buttery goodness of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake, this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a crisp, sweet sugar cookie crust supporting a luxuriously smooth cheesecake filling, speckled with colorful sprinkles that add a pop of joy in every bite. It’s a dessert that feels festive, comforting, and downright irresistible, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simplicity and the classic pantry staples it calls for. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the tangy cream cheese to the sweet cookie crust, coming together to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): Provides the rich and creamy base for the cheesecake filling.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the other flavors.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind the filling and give it that smooth, custardy texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic layer to the flavor profile.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Introduces a slight tang and creaminess that enhances the cheesecake’s richness.
- All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Stabilizes the filling to keep it from cracking.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and brings depth to the flavor.
- Refrigerated sugar cookie dough (1 roll, 16.5 oz): Acts as a simple, buttery crust with that classic sugar cookie snap.
- Rainbow sprinkles (1/2 cup, optional): Add fun pops of color and sweetness throughout the cheesecake.
- Whipped cream (optional): For a light, fluffy topping that’s extra indulgent.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Press the refrigerated sugar cookie dough evenly across the bottom, and slightly up the sides, to create a sturdy base. Baking the crust for 10 to 12 minutes allows it to set perfectly, giving that wonderful cookie texture beneath the creamy filling.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is silken and smooth. Adding the eggs one by one makes the batter luxuriously thick and cohesive. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, and salt until every ingredient is fully incorporated. If you love a playful surprise, gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles here to infuse the filling with festive color.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour your luscious cheesecake batter over the pre-baked sugar cookie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle—this ensures a creamy texture once chilled. Turning off the oven and letting the cheesecake rest inside with the door cracked allows it to cool gradually, reducing cracks and keeping it beautiful.
Step 4: Chill for the Best Results
After the hour in the oven, transfer your cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This resting period is crucial for the flavors to meld and for the cheesecake to firm up nicely, making slicing a clean and satisfying experience.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
While the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe is stunning on its own, topping it with a generous dollop of whipped cream and some extra sprinkles amplifies the fun and visual appeal. For an elegant touch, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate sauce to complement the sweet, buttery notes.
Side Dishes
Pair this cheesecake with fresh berries or a vibrant fruit compote that adds a fresh, tart contrast to the decadent slice. A simple cup of strong coffee or classic black tea alongside enhances the dessert’s flavors and rounds out a memorable dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe as mini cheesecake bites in cupcake liners for easy sharing. You could also plate it with a shimmer of berry coulis or edible flowers for a sophisticated look that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, making it a convenient treat for the days following your bake.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of this cheesecake to enjoy later—wrap each slice carefully in plastic wrap and then in foil to avoid freezer burn. Frozen cheesecake maintains its quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warmed, allow it to sit out at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes or gently warm in a microwave for just 10 seconds, watching carefully to avoid melting.
FAQs
Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade sugar cookie dough works wonderfully if you want to personalize the crust’s flavor or texture. Just be sure your dough is firm enough to press and bake as a crust without becoming too soft or crumbly.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
One key to crack-free cheesecake is baking at a moderate temperature and allowing it to cool gradually with the oven door slightly open. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly when you take it out.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
To make this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe gluten-free, substitute the sugar cookie dough with a gluten-free version and use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Just ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free certified.
Why are my sprinkles bleeding color into the batter?
Some sprinkles can melt or bleed color during baking. Using nonpareils or candy-coated sprinkles specifically labeled as “no bleed” helps maintain the vibrant appearance without turning your cheesecake streaky.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
For neat slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. This warms the blade slightly and prevents sticking, giving you perfectly smooth cheesecake slices every time.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly joyful about this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe that makes every bite feel like a celebration. It’s easy enough to whip up for a casual weekend treat but impressive enough to bring to any special occasion. Once you try this dreamy fusion of cookie and cheesecake, I’m sure you’ll be baking it again and again.
Print
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake combines a buttery sugar cookie crust with a creamy, rich cheesecake filling studded with colorful sprinkles. Baked to perfection, this delightful dessert boasts a slight jiggle in the center for the ideal texture and is perfect for celebrations or holiday gatherings. Finished with whipped cream and extra sprinkles, it offers a festive and indulgent treat that’s both easy to make and visually appealing.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup rainbow sprinkles (optional)
Topping
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Additional rainbow sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
- Make the cookie crust: Press the refrigerated sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, slightly pushing it up the sides to form a crust. Bake for 10–12 minutes until set, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the cream cheese and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy using a mixer for best results.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, all-purpose flour, and salt until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Fold in sprinkles: Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles if using to add bursts of color throughout the cheesecake.
- Assemble and bake the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the pre-baked sugar cookie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45–55 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool in oven: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking and maintain moisture.
- Chill: After cooling in the oven, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
- Serve and garnish: Before serving, top with whipped cream and additional sprinkles if desired for a festive finish. Slice with a knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.
Notes
- You can substitute the refrigerated sugar cookie dough with a homemade sugar cookie dough recipe if preferred.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; the center should still be slightly jiggly when you remove it from the oven to ensure a creamy texture.
- For cleaner cheesecake slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
