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Holiday Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 137 reviews

This festive Holiday Sugar Cookie Cheesecake combines a buttery sugar cookie crust with a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling, decorated with colorful holiday sprinkles for a perfect seasonal dessert that’s both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sugar Cookie Crust

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 32 ounces cream cheese, softened (four 8-ounce packages)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For Decoration

  • Assorted holiday sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the sugar cookie crust.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy for a tender crust.
  4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well incorporated.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  6. Chill Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up for easier rolling.
  7. Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  8. Fit Dough into Pan: Carefully transfer the dough into a 9-inch springform pan, pressing it evenly onto the bottom and up the sides to form the crust.
  9. Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool completely.
  10. Lower Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake filling.
  11. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
  12. Add Sour Cream: Beat in the sour cream for added richness and smooth texture.
  13. Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully and prevent lumps.
  14. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using, for enhanced flavor depth.
  15. Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the prepared cheesecake filling into the cooled sugar cookie crust, smoothing the top.
  16. Bake Cheesecake: Bake for 55-65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Using a water bath is optional but helps prevent cracking.
  17. Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to gently set and avoid cracks.
  18. Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature completely.
  19. Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to firm up fully.
  20. Release and Decorate: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and decorate the top with assorted holiday sprinkles.
  21. Serve: Slice and serve your festive Holiday Sugar Cookie Cheesecake to enjoy a delightful seasonal treat.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent shrinkage and make it easier to handle.
  • A water bath is optional when baking the cheesecake but can help achieve a smooth, crack-free top.
  • Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually helps minimize cracking.
  • The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely nutty flavor complementing the vanilla.
  • Decorate with sprinkles just before serving to keep them vibrant and crunchy.

Keywords: holiday dessert, sugar cookie crust, cheesecake, festive dessert, Christmas cheesecake, holiday sprinkles

Find it online: https://platedbyemma.com/holiday-sugar-cookie-cheesecake-recipe/