Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

There’s magic in the air—and nothing captures that festive feeling quite like this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. It’s rich, creamy, and nostalgic, with all the buttery, vanilla-kissed flavor of your favorite holiday sugar cookies—but in cheesecake form. Topped with whipped cream, crushed cookies, and colorful sprinkles, this dessert is a true showstopper that belongs on every Christmas table.

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that’s both classic and creative, this one hits all the right notes. And before we dive in—thank you so much for being here! I’m so glad you’re celebrating the season with me. Want more festive favorites delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe below, and you’ll never miss a recipe!

What Is Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?

It’s exactly what it sounds like—a dreamy mashup of buttery sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake. The crust is made from crushed sugar cookies (or shortbread), the filling is a smooth vanilla cheesecake with sugar cookie flavor mixed in, and the topping? Fluffy whipped cream, crushed cookies, and a snowfall of red and green sprinkles.

It’s holiday cheer, wrapped in dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly festive with bright, Christmasy colors
• Smooth, rich, and not overly sweet
• Sugar cookie flavor in every layer
• Make-ahead friendly—great for busy holiday schedules
• Freezer-friendly for holiday prep
• A crowd favorite that looks as good as it tastes

What Does It Taste Like?

Every bite of this cheesecake is creamy, buttery, and lightly spiced—like the essence of a frosted sugar cookie, but silkier and richer. The cookie crust adds that classic crunch, while the filling melts on your tongue. The sprinkles on top add just the right festive flair. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast… and has people begging for the recipe.

Benefits of Making This Recipe

• Great for holiday gatherings or potlucks
• Can be made 1–2 days in advance
• No need for a water bath (with a few baking tricks!)
• Beautiful centerpiece for your dessert table
• Easily customizable with cookie or sprinkle variations

Ingredients for Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups crushed sugar cookies or shortbread
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 blocks)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional but delicious)
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup crushed sugar cookies (optional mix-in)

For the topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Crushed sugar cookies
• Christmas sprinkles

Tools You’ll Need

• 9-inch springform pan
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor (for crushing cookies)
• Offset spatula (for topping)

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

• No sugar cookies? Use vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or shortbread
• Want a little spice? Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon to the crust
• Craving color? Fold red and green sprinkles into the filling
• No sour cream? Use Greek yogurt instead
• Gluten-free? Use GF sugar cookies for the crust and filling

How to Make Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

1. Make the crust

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• In a bowl, mix crushed cookies, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
• Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

2. Prepare the filling

• Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
• Add sugar, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low and scraping the bowl after each.
• Mix in sour cream and flour until just combined.
• Optional: Fold in crushed cookies or sprinkles for texture and color.

3. Bake the cheesecake

• Pour filling over the crust. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
• Bake at 325°F for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Turn off oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
• Remove, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Whip the topping

• Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
• Spread or pipe over chilled cheesecake.
• Top with crushed cookies and Christmas sprinkles just before serving.

What to Serve with Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This dessert shines all on its own, but pair it with:

• Peppermint mocha or hot cocoa
• Holiday cocktails like eggnog or a Christmas sangria
• Fresh berries or fruit compote for a tart contrast
• Gingersnap cookies for a spice pairing
• A crackling fire and Christmas lights—because vibes matter 🎄

Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth filling
• Don’t overmix once the eggs are in—just blend until incorporated
• Let it cool in the oven to prevent cracks
• Run a knife around the edge after baking to release from the pan
• Chill overnight for best flavor and texture

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 5 days
• Freezer: Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months (wrap tightly in plastic + foil)
• Make-ahead: Assemble and bake 1–2 days ahead, then decorate before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without a springform pan?

You can use a deep pie dish or cake pan, but it may be harder to remove cleanly. Line with parchment for easier lifting.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

For the crust? Absolutely! Just bake it as a base layer until golden and use that instead of crushed cookies.

Do I need to use a water bath?

Not necessarily. If you follow the slow cooling method and don’t overbake, you’ll still get a beautiful cheesecake.

Can I decorate with frosting instead of whipped cream?

Sure! A simple buttercream or cream cheese frosting would work well too.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner, baking for a party, or just want to spread some edible cheer, this Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a festive favorite you’ll come back to year after year. It’s cozy, creamy, full of holiday sparkle—and easy enough for beginner bakers to master.

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