If you’re a fan of two classic desserts—cheesecake and sugar cookies—then Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is going to sweep you off your feet! Imagine a rich, velvety cream cheese filling nestled atop a buttery sugar cookie crust, all finished with a scattering of colorful sprinkles for a playful touch. This gorgeous treat is perfect for celebrations, holiday dessert tables, or just because you want to bring joy to your kitchen. Whether you’re a cheesecake devotee or just adore anything with that homemade sugar cookie flavor, this crowd-pleaser manages to be nostalgic and exciting all at once.

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Sugar Cookie Cheesecake comes from its straightforward ingredients, each handpicked for a purpose. Together, they create a luscious dessert that’s equal parts creamy, crumbly, and sweet—with the familiar notes of a bakery-fresh sugar cookie.

Sugar cookie dough: This forms the buttery, sweet base and adds authentic cookie taste and texture. Use homemade or good-quality store-bought.
Cream cheese: Full-fat, brick-style cream cheese brings the signature richness and tang, necessary for a truly luscious cheesecake.
Granulated sugar: Balances tang from the cream cheese and adds that classic sweetness we crave in both sugar cookies and cheesecake.
Sour cream: A secret ingredient for a smooth, silky cheesecake with a subtle, bright flavor that keeps each bite from being too heavy.
Eggs: Essential for structure; they help bind everything together for the perfect creamy-yet-firm slice.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and mimics the cozy, fresh-from-the-oven fragrance of your favorite sugar cookies.
All-purpose flour: Just a small bit helps stabilize the batter, so your cheesecake sets up beautifully.
Sprinkles (optional): For a pop of festive fun and color—these evoke the whimsy of classic sugar cookies.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust

Start by pressing your sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to create a thick, decadent crust. Be sure to press all the way to the edges and a little up the sides for that perfect base. You’ll bake it briefly until just set—this helps ensure it keeps its structure when you add the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Batter

In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth, creamy, and lump-free. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour, then mix until perfectly incorporated. The eggs go in last—one at a time—so the batter stays plush and airy, never dense.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Pour the cheesecake batter over your pre-baked sugar cookie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you want sprinkles baked in, now’s the time to scatter some over the batter. Bake in a water bath for the creamiest texture, watching as your kitchen fills with rich, sweet aroma. The cheesecake is perfectly done when the center jiggles just slightly.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Let the cheesecake cool gradually on the counter to prevent cracks, then transfer to the fridge for several hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set to sliceable perfection.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

Before serving, pop on a generous sprinkle of festive decorations for ultimate Sugar Cookie Cheesecake flair. Slice with a hot knife for clean, beautiful pieces and watch everyone’s eyes light up at the first bite.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Garnishes

The crowning touch for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a flurry of cheerful sprinkles, but you can also add piped whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even white chocolate shavings for extra decadence. During the holidays, a few sparkling sugar crystals or themed sprinkles bring instant joy.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake is rich and stands out on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple bowl of fresh berries, a light fruit salad, or tangy lemon curd on the side. For a cozy dessert spread, offer cups of coffee or tea for sipping alongside every dreamy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake by cutting it into petite squares for a dessert bar, layering mini versions in individual jars for a party, or topping each slice with a different colorful garnish. Its playful look makes it perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or any celebration that deserves a standout dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Sugar Cookie Cheesecake wrapped tightly in the fridge, either in its pan or transferred to an airtight container. It will stay delicious and moist for up to 5 days, making it a star for make-ahead gatherings or indulgent weeknight treats.

Freezing

You can freeze individual slices or the entire cheesecake for up to two months. Wrap thoroughly in plastic wrap and foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best flavor and texture—no one will ever suspect it wasn’t freshly made!

Reheating

No reheating is required since this cheesecake shines cold or at room temperature. If you want to take the chill off, let slices sit at room temp for 20 minutes—but avoid microwaving, as that can affect the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought sugar cookie dough for the crust?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough makes the recipe faster and just as delicious. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, make your own for that personal touch—it’s fantastic either way.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?

The center should jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan, but the edges should be set. If you’re worried, check that the internal temperature reaches around 150°F for perfect doneness.

Why did my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake crack?

Cracking usually happens if the cheesecake cools too quickly or is overbaked. Always let it cool gradually and avoid peeking in the oven until nearly done for a flawless top.

Can I make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free sugar cookie dough and substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The results are just as dreamy and everyone can enjoy a slice.

What’s the best way to slice cheesecake cleanly?

Use a sharp, thin knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice. This little trick will give you those picture-perfect cuts worthy of a bakery display!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for your next showstopping bake, Sugar Cookie Cheesecake delivers unforgettable flavor, creamy comfort, and a playful touch all in one irresistible dessert. Don’t be surprised when it disappears in a flash—this is a cheesecake you’ll want to share, bake, and enjoy again and again!

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5.3 from 9 reviews

Author: Kimberly
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the heavenly combination of a sugar cookie and a velvety cheesecake with this delightful recipe. A buttery sugar cookie crust meets a creamy cheesecake filling, creating the ultimate dessert fusion.

Instructions

Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix flour and butter until crumbly. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla. Pour over crust.
Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center is almost set. Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Notes

You can top the cheesecake with fresh berries or a fruit compote for extra flavor.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake filling.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 130mg