If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to brighten your holiday table, this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is IT. 🎄✨ Creamy, rich, and layered over a buttery sugar cookie crust, it’s like all your favorite desserts bundled up in one beautiful slice. And with red and green candy-coated chocolates scattered on top like cheerful ornaments? You’ve got the holiday spirit baked right in.
Whether you're hosting a Christmas Eve gathering, taking dessert to a holiday party, or just baking something special for your loved ones, this cheesecake is sure to deliver both wow-factor and comfort in every bite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🎁 Festive and beautiful with minimal effort
- 🍰 Creamy, smooth, and full of holiday cheer
- 🍪 Uses classic sugar cookies for a nostalgic twist
- 🧁 Great make-ahead dessert—perfect for parties
- 👩🍳 Beginner-friendly, but looks professionally made!
What Does It Taste Like?
This cheesecake is everything you love about the holidays in one decadent dessert. The sugar cookie crust brings a soft, buttery sweetness, while the filling is ultra-creamy, rich, and gently tangy from the sour cream and cream cheese. The candy-coated chocolate pieces on top give a sweet crunch and festive pop of color.
Each bite is creamy, dreamy, and just the right amount of sweet.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups sugar cookie crumbs (about 20 baked sugar cookies, crushed)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 blocks)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For Topping:
- ½ cup mini red and green candy-coated chocolate pieces (like mini M&Ms)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet (for water bath, optional)
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
- Add ½ tsp almond extract for a festive flavor boost
- Use store-bought sugar cookies or homemade—either works!
- Stir crushed candy canes or white chocolate chips into the batter
- Pipe whipped cream on top for extra flair
How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix:
- 2 cups sugar cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat together:
- Cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy (no lumps!).
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in:
- Vanilla extract
- Sour cream
- Heavy cream
Beat just until smooth. Don’t overmix.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden. The middle may still jiggle a bit—that’s okay!
Step 5: Cool Gradually
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracks.
Step 6: Chill
Remove from oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step 7: Decorate & Serve
Right before serving:
- Sprinkle the top with mini red and green chocolate candies
- Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish (optional)
Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts and enjoy your beautiful, festive cheesecake!
What to Serve With It
- A warm mug of hot cocoa or peppermint coffee
- A side of fresh berries or sugared cranberries
- Champagne or mulled wine for a grown-up touch
- Whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate sauce
Tips for the Best Christmas Cheesecake
- ✅ Use room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest filling
- ✅ Don’t skip the gradual cooling—it helps prevent cracking
- ✅ For extra insurance, bake with a water bath (place the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water)
- ✅ Store cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days
- ✅ For long-term storage, freeze slices and thaw overnight in the fridge
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?
Sure! It won’t be as sweet or festive, but it’ll still taste delicious.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely—this cheesecake is best when chilled overnight, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Can I use different toppings?
Yes! Try sprinkles, crushed peppermint, or white chocolate curls for other holiday looks.
Can I make it without a springform pan?
You can use a deep-dish pie pan or cake pan lined with parchment, but springform makes it easiest to release and slice neatly.
In Conclusion: The Ultimate Holiday Treat
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake brings together everything you love about the holidays—warm flavors, festive colors, and a creamy, decadent bite. It’s a centerpiece-worthy dessert that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.
Bake it, chill it, and watch the smiles roll in with every slice. 🎅🏼🍰
🎄 More Holiday Desserts to Try:
- No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake Cups
- White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
- Gingerbread Trifle with Cream Cheese Whip
⭐ Tried This Recipe?
Leave a rating and review below to let others know how it turned out!
Tag your creation on Pinterest or Instagram with #ChristmasCheesecakeMagic—I'd love to see your festive masterpiece!
🍰 Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approx. 12 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 36g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 6g
(Note: Nutrition is estimated and will vary based on toppings and cookie choice.)
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