As I unwrapped the twinkling lights and hung the ornaments, the sweet scent of holiday baking filled the air, instantly lifting my spirits. This festive Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is the perfect centerpiece for all your holiday gatherings, boasting a buttery sugar cookie crust that cradles a creamy cheesecake filling. Not only is it visually stunning with its colorful jimmies sprinkles, but it also brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will have your family and friends clamoring for seconds. With simple ingredients and a family-friendly approach, this holiday dessert is a meaningful way to celebrate the season without the stress of complicated recipes. Ready to spread some cheer with a slice of happiness? Let’s dive into this festive treat together!
Why Is This Cheesecake So Special?
Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of a buttery sugar cookie crust and a creamy cheesecake filling provides a taste sensation like no other.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.
Festive Appeal: Cheerful jimmies sprinkles add a pop of color, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.
Family-Friendly Delight: This treat is not only vegetarian but sure to please both kids and adults alike, sparking joy in every slice.
Flexible Variations: Want to mix it up? Try incorporating peppermint or crushed candy canes for an extra festive flair.
Memorable Moments: Serve this creamy Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with a side of hot cocoa or peppermint tea, and watch as it becomes a cherished holiday tradition among your loved ones.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookie Crust:
Flour – Provides structure; can substitute gluten-free flour for a GF version.
Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted for better control over sodium.
Sugar – Sweetens the crust; can substitute coconut sugar for a less refined option.
Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; substituting with almond extract gives a different taste.
Egg – Binds ingredients together; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
Cream cheese – Creates a creamy texture; use full-fat for best results.
Sugar – Sweetens the filling; can use a sugar substitute like erythritol.
Sour cream – Adds tang and creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; using pure vanilla is preferred over imitation.
Eggs – Provides structure; ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
For the Topping:
Whipped cream – Adds lightness and decorations; can use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free option.
Jimmies sprinkles – For festive presentation; optional, but enhances the holiday spirit.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare Sugar Cookie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, blend together flour, softened unsalted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Carefully remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Step 2: Make Cheesecake Filling
While the crust cools, grab another mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with a handheld mixer until creamy and fluffy. Gradually incorporate sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, blending until smooth. One at a time, add the eggs, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
Once the filling is ready, pour it over the cooled sugar cookie crust in the springform pan. Using a spatula, gently smooth the top of the cheesecake filling to ensure an even surface. Place the assembled cheesecake into the oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes. It should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open to let the cheesecake cool gradually inside for about an hour. Once cool, remove it from the oven and let it reach room temperature. Then, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
Step 5: Finish with Whipped Cream and Sprinkles
When you’re ready to serve your Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, whip up some cream until soft peaks form. Spread this luscious whipped cream across the top of the chilled cheesecake. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of colorful jimmies over the whipped cream for a festive touch. Slice and share this delightful dessert!
What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply celebrating the season with family, the right accompaniments can elevate your festive meal to new heights.
- Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with rich hot cocoa, which complements the cheesecake’s sweetness while enhancing that warm holiday vibe.
- Peppermint Tea: The refreshing notes of peppermint tea provide a delightful contrast to the decadent cheesecake, making it a light yet festive pairing.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: The classic crunch of chocolate chip cookies adds a homemade touch, balancing the creaminess of the cheesecake with a comforting texture.
- Mixed Berries: Serve a medley of fresh berries alongside the creamy dessert for a burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider not only fills the air with aromatic holiday fragrances but also pairs excellently with the flavors in the cheesecake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream next to your cheesecake offers a cool, smooth contrast to each rich and velvety slice.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These nutty bars bring a crunchy, sweet element that pairs wonderfully with the cheesecake’s softer textures, enhancing the holiday spirit.
- Gingerbread Cookies: The spice from gingerbread cookies adds warmth, creating a nostalgic experience that harmonizes perfectly with the holiday flavor profile.
Indulging in these delightful pairings will create lasting memories and a feast that friends and family will cherish!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to create a smooth cheesecake filling that’s free of lumps.
- Mix Carefully: Avoid overmixing once the eggs are added, as this can lead to cracks in your cheesecake while baking.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cheesecake towards the end of the baking time; it should be set around the edges, with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool Gradually: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open to prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks.
- Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight before serving. This enhances the creamy consistency and deepens the taste.
- Decorate Festively: Don’t skip the colorful jimmies sprinkles! They not only make the cheesecake visually enticing but also add a fun, festive touch for gatherings.
Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Variations
Let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful cheesecake to suit your taste and occasion!
Peppermint Twist: Add a splash of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing holiday flavor. You can also garnish with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend in the sugar cookie crust. This allows everyone to indulge without worry, while still delivering that delicious sweetness!
Fruit Topping: Top your cheesecake with a layer of homemade cranberry sauce or a fresh fruit compote. This adds a sweet-tart balance, bringing the flavors of the season to life!
Chocolate Delight: Mix in chocolate chips or fold in melted chocolate to the cheesecake filling. The decadent chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet cookie crust.
Nutty Addition: Fold in some finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the filling for added texture and a rich, nutty flavor.
Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free twist, substitute regular cream cheese with coconut cream and top with coconut whipped cream. This gives a tropical feel to your holiday celebration.
Spiced Gingersnap Crust: For a warm and cozy twist, switch out the sugar cookie crust for a gingersnap cookie crust. Its spiced notes will beautifully complement the cheesecake filling.
Choco Drizzle: Enhance the visual appeal and taste by drizzling melted chocolate over the whipped cream topping. It’ll not only look stunning, but provide a decadent touch that everyone will love!
For even more delightful dessert ideas, consider trying my Cake Cheesecake Cookie or Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars. Each recipe brings its own special touch to family gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecakes are perfect for busy holiday schedules, allowing you to enjoy more time with family! You can prepare the sugar cookie crust up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and crumbly. For the cheesecake filling, mix it up and refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to 3 days before pouring it over the crust. When you’re ready to complete the dish, simply assemble the cheesecake and bake it as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful, festive dessert that’s just as delicious, saving you precious time in the kitchen during the holidays!
Storage Tips for Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the cheesecake fresh and prevents it from absorbing other odors.
Freezer: The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
Reheating: If desired, you can serve slices slightly warmed; just a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave will do, but be cautious not to overheat!
Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for the crust?
For the sugar cookie crust, all-purpose flour works wonderfully as it provides the right structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, I recommend using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, which often includes xanthan gum to help with consistency.
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! To keep your cheesecake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s well covered to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, you can! The Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Before freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
Cracks can happen, so don’t worry! To avoid this in the first place, remember to mix the filling gently once the eggs are added. If cracking does occur, you can camouflage it by topping it with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles, adding a festive touch while hiding any imperfections.
Are there any dietary considerations for this cheesecake?
This cheesecake is vegetarian-friendly. If you have specific dietary needs, substitutions can be made. For dairy-free alternatives, use coconut whipped cream and a vegan cream cheese. For egg-free, a flax egg can work in the crust, though it may slightly alter the texture.

Irresistibly Creamy Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Blend flour, butter, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl until crumbly. Press into greased springform pan and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
- Beat cream cheese until creamy. Add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla, blending until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour filling over cooled crust. Smooth the top, then bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool gradually with door slightly open for about an hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Whip cream until soft peaks form. Spread over cheesecake and top with colorful jimmies before serving.