Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Few desserts capture the magic of the holiday season quite like cheesecake. Its creamy texture, comforting sweetness, and endless variations make it a timeless favorite for gatherings. For Christmas, this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake takes the spotlight. Imagine the nostalgic taste of buttery sugar cookies blended into a smooth cheesecake filling, topped with festive sprinkles and candies that shimmer with red and green cheer. It’s more than a dessert—it’s a centerpiece for your holiday table, a treat that brings together family traditions and seasonal joy.

The beauty of this cheesecake lies in its layers: a buttery cookie crumb crust, a silky cheesecake filling, and a colorful topping that makes each slice feel like Christmas morning. Perfect for sharing at potlucks, serving after Christmas dinner, or gifting to neighbors, this cheesecake is a heartwarming way to spread holiday cheer.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups sugar cookie crumbs (about 20 sugar cookies, crushed)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 blocks)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 3 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional for holiday flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup holiday sprinkles

• 1 cup red and green chocolate candies (like M&M’s)

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Cooling & Chilling: 4 hours (minimum)

• Total Time: About 6 hours

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine the sugar cookie crumbs with melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to pack it tightly.

4. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition. Overmixing can lead to cracks, so mix gently.

3. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well blended.

4. Pour the filling onto the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the pan on the middle rack of the oven. For best results, bake in a water bath: wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil, place it inside a larger roasting pan, and pour hot water into the outer pan to reach halfway up the sides.

2. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

3. Turn off the oven and crack the door slightly. Let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour to prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

1. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.

2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up.

Step 5: Decorate

1. Just before serving, top the cheesecake with festive holiday sprinkles and red and green candies.

2. Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

3. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat servings.

This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a true holiday showstopper. With its buttery cookie crust, creamy filling, and festive toppings, it blends traditional holiday flavors with the indulgent luxury of cheesecake. It’s a recipe that can easily become a family tradition, enjoyed year after year as part of your seasonal celebrations.

Beyond its irresistible taste, the cheesecake offers something more: it creates moments. Whether you’re sharing it around the table after Christmas dinner, serving it at a holiday potluck, or surprising a friend with a slice, it spreads the warmth and togetherness that define the season. Each bite tastes of comfort, nostalgia, and joy.