Name: Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 420 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups crushed sugar cookies; 3 tablespoons melted butter; 16 ounces cream cheese (Make sure it's at room temperature); 1 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 pieces eggs (Add one at a time); 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup whipped cream (For topping); Sprinkles for decoration (Use festive sprinkles)

Christmas is a time for indulgence, and what better way to celebrate than with a decadent Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake? Merging the beloved flavors of creamy cheesecake with delightful sugar cookies, this dessert is bound to create warm memories and delightful moments during your holiday gatherings. I remember the first time I whipped up this recipe—it was a resounding crowd-pleaser at our family Christmas party, sparking joyous conversations and second helpings. With its festive sprinkles and rich, creamy texture, this cheesecake brings festive cheer to the table and makes for a perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert spread.

Why you’ll love this dish

You won’t just adore this cheesecake for its festive look; it’s also incredibly simple to make! This recipe is budget-friendly, using common ingredients found in most pantries, making it approachable for both novice and seasoned bakers. Plus, its delightful flavor profile appeals to everyone, from kids to grandparents. Ideal for holiday parties, family brunches, or just as a special treat to enjoy at home, this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is bound to impress.

“I made this cheesecake for our holiday get-together, and it was the star of the table! Everyone raved about it, and it was so easy to make. I’ll definitely be making it again!” — A happy home baker

Preparing Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Creating this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful experience that combines baking with a bit of festive magic. The process begins with making a simple yet flavorful crust from crushed sugar cookies. While that’s baking, you can work on the irresistibly creamy filling, which comes together in just a few simple steps. Just follow along, and you’ll have a beautiful dessert to share in no time!

What you’ll need

To make this delightful cheesecake, gather the following ingredients:

1 1/2 cups crushed sugar cookies
3 tablespoons melted butter
16 ounces cream cheese
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whipped cream
Sprinkles for decoration

For a gluten-free twist, you can easily substitute the sugar cookies and use your favorite gluten-free cookie crust!

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed sugar cookies and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream until fully integrated.
Pour your cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
Bake in the oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and not wobbly.
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set.
Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle on some festive sprinkles for an extra touch of cheer!

Best ways to enjoy it

This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is delightful on its own, but there are fun ways to elevate your serving experience. Pair it with a side of fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast. Serve it with a hot cup of cocoa or your favorite festive beverage, and watch your guests smile with satisfaction. Consider slicing and plating individual servings and garnishing each with a sprinkle of crushed cookies for an added touch.

Keeping leftovers fresh

To ensure your Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake stays fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 5-7 days in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for the holidays. If you want to keep it longer, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Helpful cooking tips

For a flawless cheesecake experience, consider these handy tips:

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing for a smoother texture.
Do not open the oven door while baking; it can cause the cheesecake to crack.
Allow it to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating to help prevent moisture buildup, which can affect the texture.

Creative twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are some variations to try:

For a chocolate lover’s dream, mix in chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the filling.
Add festive flavors like peppermint extract or eggnog spice for a holiday twist.
Experiment with different toppings such as crushed candy canes or seasonal fruits to give a delightful spin to each serving.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time to make this cheesecake is around 6-7 hours, including baking and chilling. However, the prep work is quick and straightforward, taking about 20-30 minutes.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works well too; just keep in mind that it may alter the creaminess slightly.

Is it safe to freeze cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze cheesecake! Just ensure it’s wrapped well and defrosted properly for the best results.

This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake not only tastes divine but also adds a festive flair that’s hard to resist. Now that you have all the keys to success, go ahead and create memories filled with sweetness this holiday season!