Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

The Story Behind the Recipe 🎉

Desserts have a way of bringing back the happiest memories, and for me, Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is tied to childhood holiday traditions. Growing up, sugar cookies were always the first treat we baked during the holidays. The aroma of vanilla and butter would fill the house, and we’d eagerly sprinkle them with colored sugar while humming along to festive tunes.

Years later, I wanted to combine that nostalgic joy of sugar cookies with a rich, creamy cheesecake. One weekend, armed with my favorite sugar cookie dough recipe and a block of cream cheese, I decided to make it happen. The result? A dessert that tastes like pure happiness — soft, buttery, sweet, and silky all at once.

Every bite brings that warm, comforting feeling of holidays past, mixed with the creamy decadence of a cheesecake. Now, this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a family favorite for birthdays, celebrations, or any day that needs a little extra sweetness.

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What Makes This Recipe Special

• 🍪 Cookie + Cheesecake: The best of both worlds — a soft sugar cookie crust topped with creamy cheesecake.
• 🥄 Silky Smooth Filling: Cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla whipped to perfection.
• ✨ Beautiful & Festive: Sprinkled sugar-cookie crumbs on top for texture and charm.
• 🍰 Perfect for Any Occasion: Birthdays, holidays, or just a treat-yourself moment.
• 👩‍🍳 Fun to Make: Slightly playful, slightly elegant, totally delicious.

This dessert is not just cheesecake — it’s a sugar-cookie dream come true!

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

🥧 For the Sugar Cookie Crust:

• 1½ cups sugar cookie crumbs (from pre-baked sugar cookies or store-bought cookies)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

🥄 For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy cream

🍪 For Topping (Optional):

• ¼ cup crushed sugar cookies
• Sprinkles or a light dusting of powdered sugar

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Crust

In a medium bowl, combine sugar cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.

Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is silky and smooth.

Step 4: Pour Filling Over Crust

Carefully pour cheesecake filling over the cooled sugar cookie crust, spreading evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles. Avoid overbaking — cheesecake will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Cool & Chill

Remove from oven and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight — this ensures perfect texture and flavor.

Step 7: Add Topping

Before serving, sprinkle with crushed sugar cookies, a dusting of powdered sugar, or festive sprinkles for an extra touch.

Step 8: Slice & Serve

Carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan before removing the springform. Slice and serve chilled — perfection in every bite.

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

• ☕ Coffee or Espresso: The richness of the cheesecake pairs beautifully with a strong coffee.
• 🍓 Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add tartness to balance the sweetness.
• 🍨 Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream makes it an indulgent dessert experience.
• 🍫 Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds extra decadence.
• 🥂 Champagne or Sparkling Wine: Perfect for holiday celebrations or birthdays.

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Customization & Variations

• 🌰 Nutty Twist: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or almonds to the crust.
• 🍫 Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Swirl melted chocolate into the filling before baking.
• 🍋 Citrus Kick: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the filling.
• 🍪 Cookie Swap: Try snickerdoodle or gingerbread crumbs for a seasonal twist.
• 🥄 Mini Cheesecakes: Use muffin tins to create individual portions — great for parties!
• 🍯 Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle: Top for extra indulgence.

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Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Serving Tip: Let chilled cheesecake sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing — it makes cutting smoother.

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 220mg

Rich, creamy, and indulgent — a perfect dessert for celebrations or special treats.

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I use store-bought sugar cookies for the crust?
Yes! Crush them finely — they make a perfect crust.

2. Can this cheesecake be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free sugar cookies for the crust.

3. Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! It’s best chilled overnight.

4. Can I use a regular pan instead of springform?
Yes, but line it with parchment paper and carefully lift the cheesecake out to slice.

5. How do I prevent cracks on top?
Don’t overbeat the eggs and bake gently. Cooling slowly also helps.

6. Can I make mini cheesecakes?
Yes! Bake in a muffin tin for 18–22 minutes at 325°F.

7. Can I use whipped cream instead of frosting?
Yes, lightly sweetened whipped cream works beautifully.

8. Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, fold in ½ cup chocolate chips into the filling for extra indulgence.

9. How long should it chill?
At least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for perfect texture.

10. Can I decorate with sprinkles?
Yes! Colorful sprinkles or crushed cookies make it festive.

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Final Thoughts 🍽️

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a dreamy combination of buttery cookies and creamy cheesecake — a dessert that brings smiles and feels like a celebration in every bite.

It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any day you deserve something indulgent. The crust adds sweetness and texture, while the filling is smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced. Sprinkled with crushed cookies or festive toppings, it becomes a show-stopping centerpiece.

Bite after bite, it delivers nostalgia, sweetness, and comfort — everything a dessert should be. 💛

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Tried This Recipe? 💕

Did you make my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?

📸 Share your creation on Pinterest and tag @Granny’s Lil Kitchen! Whether you added chocolate, sprinkles, or made mini cheesecakes, I’d love to see your version.

Leave a comment, rate the recipe, and follow for more cozy, comforting desserts that make life sweeter. 🍪💛