If there’s one dessert that captures the cozy spirit of Christmas and makes every holiday table feel extra special, it’s this Simple Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. Combining the familiar sweetness of sugar cookies with the creamy, indulgent texture of cheesecake, this dessert is bound to be a hit! And to make it even better, this recipe uses ready-to-bake sugar cookies for a festive crust that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re a fan of classic sugar cookies or creamy cheesecakes, this recipe delivers a delightful treat that’ll make your holiday celebrations merry and bright!
Ingredients
- 4 (8oz) packages of cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 2 packages of Ready-to-Bake Sugar Cookies (24 cookies per pack)
- Christmas-colored sprinkles for decoration
How to Make Simple Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Lightly spray a 9″ springform pan with cooking spray, then set it aside.
- Use one of the sugar cookie packages to line the outer edge of the pan, and work inward with the second package. Ensure each cookie touches the other, creating a seal as they bake.
- Bake the cookie crust for 8 minutes, or until the cookies have spread and filled all gaps. Be careful not to over-bake to keep the crust soft and chewy. Allow the crust to cool for 5 minutes.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and beat until creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until everything is smooth and well-blended.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing slightly between each addition. After the last egg, scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix for another 30 seconds to 1 minute to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated without over-mixing.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled sugar cookie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Place a large roasting pan filled with about 2 inches of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create a steam bath for the cheesecake. This helps prevent cracks.
- Place the cheesecake on the middle oven rack and bake for 55 minutes or until the edges are set and the center remains slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven for 1 hour. This step helps avoid sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
4. Cool and Decorate
- Once the cheesecake has fully cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator to set for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and top with a generous sprinkle of Christmas-colored sprinkles for a festive touch.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; this makes for a smoother, lump-free filling.
- Water Bath Benefits: Placing a water bath below the cheesecake helps create steam that keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents it from cracking.
- Gentle Cooling: After baking, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks in the cheesecake’s surface.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cookies: Feel free to experiment with other festive cookies for the crust, like gingerbread or snickerdoodles, to create unique flavors.
- Extracts: Swap out almond extract for a hint of peppermint extract to create a holiday twist.
- Toppings: Add whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top for a little extra indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake can be made 1-2 days in advance. Simply keep it refrigerated and add the sprinkles just before serving.
Why is my cheesecake cracking?
Cracks often happen from over-mixing the eggs or sudden temperature changes. Following the water bath and allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven can help prevent cracks.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Absolutely! After chilling, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Storage Instructions
- In the Refrigerator: Store this cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The sugar cookie crust will hold up well, and the cheesecake will stay creamy and delicious.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, slice and freeze as directed in the FAQ. This cheesecake can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.
Bring a touch of holiday cheer to your dessert table with this Simple Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. The combination of a soft sugar cookie crust and creamy cheesecake filling is a crowd-pleaser that will make your Christmas celebrations all the more magical. Enjoy!
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Simple Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Total Time: 6 hours 40 minutes (including cooling and chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Simple Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake combines holiday favorites—soft sugar cookie crust and creamy cheesecake filling—for a festive treat that’s perfect for Christmas celebrations! Top with holiday sprinkles for extra cheer, and watch it become the star of your dessert table!
Ingredients
- 4 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 2 packages Ready-to-Bake Sugar Cookies (24 cookies/pack)
- Christmas-colored sprinkles (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly spray a 9″ springform pan with cooking spray and set aside.
- Make the Crust: Use one package of cookies to line the outer edge of the pan, working inward with the second package. Ensure each cookie touches, creating a seal. Bake for 8 minutes, or until cookies spread and fill gaps. Cool for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Add sugar, vanilla, and almond extract, and mix until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slightly between each.
- Bake Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust. Place a roasting pan with 2 inches of water on the oven’s bottom rack. Bake for 55 minutes, until edges set and center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing cheesecake to cool for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
- Decorate: Remove cheesecake from springform pan and top with Christmas sprinkles.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made 1-2 days in advance and refrigerated until serving.
- Prevent Cracking: A water bath and gradual cooling in the oven help prevent cracks.
- Optional Toppings: Whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate can add extra holiday flair.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approx. 450 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 24g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 90 mg