The sweet and nostalgic scent of baking cookies is the backbone of many holiday celebrations, reminding us of cherished traditions. This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Cookie Dough Balls brings that classic warmth to the dessert table in a delightful new way. Featuring a buttery sugar cookie crust and a creamy filling dotted with chewy cookie dough balls, this decadent treat is perfect for impressing friends and family during festive gatherings. Not only is it an indulgent twist on a favorite, but it’s also surprisingly simple to make! Whether you’re looking to elevate your holiday menu or searching for a show-stopping dessert, this cheesecake will satisfy both cravings and hearts. Ready to take your holiday baking to a whole new level? Let’s dive in!
Why Is This Cheesecake So Irresistible?
Decadent Flavor: The rich interplay of creamy cheesecake and buttery sugar cookie crust creates a mouthwatering treat.
Festive Appeal: Adorned with colorful Christmas sprinkles and ganache, this dessert is eye-catching and perfect for holiday celebrations.
Surprising Texture: With chewy cookie dough balls folded into the filling, each slice offers a delightful surprise that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this cheesecake is approachable for bakers of all levels, ensuring that even novice chefs can shine during the holidays.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Bring joy to your gatherings! This indulgent dessert is bound to be a hit, sparking smiles at the dinner table and sure to impress your guests.
Plus, if you’re looking for a tempting pairing, try serving this cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or perhaps alongside a delectable Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake for a sweet variety!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the crust and cookie dough; substitute with heat-treated flour for safe raw use.
• Baking soda – Helps the crust rise slightly, contributing to a light texture.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor in both the crust and cookie dough.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• White granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust and cheesecake, imparting a classic sweetness.
• Pure vanilla extract – Provides aromatic flavor that complements the cookie dough and cheesecake.
For the Cookie Dough Balls
• Large eggs – Binds all ingredients in the cheesecake, adding moisture and richness; room temperature for best results.
• Milk – Adds moisture to the cookie dough; can substitute with a non-dairy option if needed.
• Christmas sprinkles – For festive decoration in both the cookie dough and the ganache.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream cheese – Forms the base of the cheesecake filling; use softened cream cheese for a smooth texture.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and tang to the cheesecake; room temperature is best for mixing.
• Heavy cream – Used in both the cheesecake and ganache; adds richness and a smooth texture.
• White chocolate chips – Serve as a base for the ganache; melt with heavy cream for a glossy finish.
This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a festive experience that brings warmth and joy to any holiday gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grab your 9-inch springform pan and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Start by baking the all-purpose flour on a baking sheet for 5 minutes to reduce bacteria. Once cooled, mix the flour with baking soda, salt, and melted butter until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Step 2: Make Cookie Dough Balls
While the crust bakes, prepare your cookie dough balls. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour with a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, cream together room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add in milk and a handful of festive Christmas sprinkles, mixing until fully integrated. Roll this mixture into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Once the crust has cooled, reduce the oven temperature to 325℉ (163℃). In a large mixing bowl, beat room temperature cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Carefully add sour cream, heavy cream, and eggs, mixing on low speed to avoid overmixing. Gently fold in the frozen cookie dough balls until evenly distributed throughout the mixture, ensuring a delightful surprise in every slice of your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.
Step 4: Create a Water Bath
To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, it’s crucial to use a water bath. Wrap the bottom of your springform pan with aluminum foil to seal it. Place the pan in a larger baking dish, then pour hot water into the dish halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan and spread evenly. Bake for 80–90 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 30 minutes, which helps it set evenly. Once mildly cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 hours, or better yet, overnight. This ensures flavors meld beautifully, yielding a creamier texture for your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.
Step 6: Make the Ganache
To prepare the luscious white chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat, and add in the white chocolate chips; stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake, letting it cascade down the sides deliciously.
Step 7: Final Touches
To finish your festive masterpiece, garnish the top of your chilled Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with the remaining cookie dough balls and sprinkle some additional Christmas sprinkles for a delightful presentation. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing, allowing all those wonderful flavors to shine through in every delicious slice!
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Cookie Cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the crust and cookie dough balls up to 24 hours in advance. Once baked, allow the crust to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. The cookie dough balls can be rolled and frozen, keeping them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to finish your cheesecake, simply mix the prepped components into the filling, bake as instructed, and then chill. This approach will ensure your dessert is just as delicious as when made fresh, saving you valuable time and helping you effortlessly impress your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Fridge: Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s airtight to maintain its delicious freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, allowing for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, transfer it to the fridge overnight before serving, ensuring it defrosts gently.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently warm it in the microwave for about 20 seconds; just enough to take the chill off without losing its creamy texture.
What to Serve with Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert experience further with delightful accompaniments that enhance this indulgent cheesecake’s flavors.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich cheesecake, making each bite feel decadent yet fluffy. It’s the perfect balance for your taste buds!
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries provides a tart freshness that cuts through the sweetness, brightening up the dessert and adding a splash of color to the plate.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of a hot cup of coffee or espresso create an amazing pairing with the sweet elements of the cheesecake, enhancing the dessert experience as you sip and savor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm drizzle of melted chocolate over the cheesecake not only makes it look irresistible but also adds an extra layer of rich flavor that everyone will love.
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Holiday Punch: Serve with a festive holiday punch or spiced cider to complement the buildup of cozy seasonal flavors throughout your dessert spread and create an inviting celebratory atmosphere.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a lovely, creamy texture alongside each slice of cheesecake, creating a delightful contrast that’s simply heavenly.
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Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the cheesecake for crunchy texture and earthy flavors, enhancing the overall depth of the dessert and providing delightful surprises with each bite.
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Festive Sprinkles: For a fun finishing touch, add extra Christmas sprinkles on top of the whipped cream or ganache, keeping up with the holiday spirit and making each slice feel like a celebration!
Expert Tips for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and a creamy texture in your cheesecake.
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Avoid Overmixing: When adding eggs to the filling, mix on low speed to prevent overmixing; this helps achieve a smooth, crack-free Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.
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Utilize a Water Bath: Always use a water bath to maintain moisture while baking, which prevents cracks and gives your cheesecake a velvety texture.
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Cool Gradually: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 30 minutes before refrigerating. This gradual cooling helps set the cheesecake evenly.
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Heat-Treat Flour: If you’re using raw flour for cookie dough, heat-treat it first to eliminate any bacteria, ensuring your dessert is safe and delicious.
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake: Creative Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful cheesecake and create flavors that sing to your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Flavor Infusion: Add a splash of almond or peppermint extract to the filling for a delightful twist that enhances the holiday spirit.
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Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Mix in some crushed chocolate cookies or even chocolate chips within the cheesecake for an indulgent chocolate layer.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the crust or filling, providing a pleasing crunch to each bite.
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Fruit-Filled Surprise: Fold in some diced seasonal fruit, like cranberries or strawberries, to add a fresh burst of flavor contrasting with the rich cheesecake.
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Lower-Fat Options: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter filling while still keeping a creamy texture to your cheesecake.
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream to substitute for a wholly dairy-free version, broadening the appeal to lactose-sensitive guests.
Make this captivating dessert your own, and don’t hesitate to experiment! Looking for more cheesecake ideas? Consider trying my Mini Lemon Cheesecakes or the rich Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake for an exciting variety at your next gathering!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose cream cheese that is fully softened to room temperature, which ensures easy blending and creamy texture. Also, look for unsalted butter that feels soft and pliable, as it should be at room temperature to integrate beautifully into the crust. Fresh eggs should be used as well; they are best if they’re also at room temperature to create that velvety filling.
How should I store leftover Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?
You can easily store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will maintain its decadent flavor and creamy texture. It may also help to create a bit of airspace between the dessert and the wrap to prevent it from sticking!
Can I freeze Sugar Cookie Cheesecake for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, ensuring that it’s completely sealed. This method keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cheesecake in the fridge overnight to preserve its luxurious creaminess.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking?
The more the merrier! To prevent cracking, ensure you are using a water bath, which creates steam around the cheesecake during baking. This moisture helps to keep the surface smooth. Additionally, remember to avoid overmixing when incorporating eggs and to cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar—this will allow it to set evenly and greatly reduce the chance of unsightly cracks.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
When making this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, be aware of common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and eggs. If you’re baking for someone with a gluten intolerance, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and substitute the milk with a non-dairy option like almond or oat milk. Always check for specific ingredients that might trigger allergies!
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake: Indulge in a Festive Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray.
- Bake all-purpose flour on a baking sheet for 5 minutes to reduce bacteria, then let cool.
- Mix cooled flour with baking soda, salt, and melted butter until crumbly, then press into the springform pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
- For cookie dough balls, combine 1 cup of flour with a pinch of salt, then cream butter and sugar together until fluffy. Mix in milk and sprinkles, roll into balls, and freeze for 30 minutes.
- For the filling, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, heavy cream, and egg, mixing on low. Fold in frozen cookie dough balls.
- Create a water bath by wrapping the springform pan in aluminum foil, placing it in a larger baking dish, and pouring hot water halfway up the sides. Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 80–90 minutes until the center jiggles slightly.
- Cool in the oven with the door cracked for 30 minutes, then chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- For the ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering, remove, and stir in white chocolate chips until smooth. Let cool slightly then pour over the cheesecake.
- Garnish the top of the cheesecake with remaining cookie dough balls and Christmas sprinkles before serving.
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