Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

If you love the best of both worlds, a buttery cookie and a creamy cheesecake, then you’re going to flip for this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out — it’s like sugar cookies and cheesecake got together and created dessert magic. It’s rich, soft, slightly chewy, and bursting with those sweet, nostalgic sugar cookie flavors, all wrapped up in the smoothest cheesecake you’ll ever taste. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it for every party and special occasion.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let me tell you, the ingredients in this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe come together like old friends. The buttery shortbread crust sets a perfect base, while the sugar cookie dough bites baked right into the cheesecake add a delightful texture and nostalgic flavor boost.

• All-purpose flour: Essential for both the cookie dough and crust—just be sure to measure properly to keep it tender.
• Powdered sugar: Adds that silky sweetness especially to the crust and frosting.
• Kosher salt: A small pinch enhances all the flavors without being salty.
• Unsalted butter (cold and room temperature): The cold butter helps create a flaky crust, while the softened butter blends beautifully into the cookie dough and cheesecake.
• Milk: Keeps the dough and cheesecake batter perfectly moist.
• Granulated sugar: For sweetness and that classic sugar cookie touch.
• Vanilla extract: The ultimate flavor booster; it makes the entire cheesecake sing.
• Jimmies sprinkles: For fun, festive pops of color baked right into the cheesecake.
• Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake — make sure it’s full fat and room temperature to avoid lumps.
• Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and creaminess that’s so luxurious in the filling and frosting.
• Eggs: Binder that gives structure and richness.

Variations

I love customizing this sugar cookie cheesecake to keep things interesting, and I encourage you to tweak it to fit your style or dietary needs. Making it your own is half the fun and makes it even more special when you serve it.

• Gluten-Free Variation: I swapped the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix once, and it worked surprisingly well—just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum for structure.
• Flavor Boost: Sometimes I add a splash of almond extract to the filling—it’s subtle but gives a nice twist that pairs wonderfully with the vanilla.
• Mix-in Fun: Feel free to swap jimmies for mini chocolate chips or even crushed peppermint for a seasonal spin.
• Lower Sugar: If you want it less sweet, I’ve cut back the sugar slightly and found the cheesecake still tastes indulgent because of the cream cheese and sour cream richness.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Buttery Shortbread Crust

Start by blending cold cubed butter with powdered sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this is your crust base, and that cold butter is key for a flaky texture. Press it evenly into the bottom of a springform pan, making sure to get it all the way into the edges. Pop it into the fridge while you prepare the filling to keep it firm and ready to support all that cheesecake goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Dough Bites

Combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla until creamy. Then add flour, salt, and a little milk to form a soft dough. Don’t forget to stir in those fun jimmies sprinkles—this is where the magic begins! Chill the dough until firm, then roll into small bite-sized balls. These little nuggets are what make this cheesecake truly unforgettable.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Beat softened cream cheese with sugar and flour until smooth. Add in vanilla and almond extract (if using), then blend in the sour cream for that velvet finish. Lastly, add eggs one at a time, mixing gently but thoroughly—over-mixing can lead to cracks, so slow and steady wins the race here.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour about two-thirds of the cheesecake batter over the crust, then gently fold in your chilled sugar cookie dough bites. Spread the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for around 1 hour and 15 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly—that’s perfect! Cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate overnight to fully set.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Whip softened butter, sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla into a luscious frosting. Spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake, then top with a generous scattering of sprinkles for the ultimate festive finish. This frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the baked sugar cookie pieces beautifully.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this cheesecake with extra sprinkles for color and crunch, but fresh berries, edible flowers, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate also add a pretty touch that wows guests. Whipped cream on the side never hurts either!

Side Dishes

Pair it with a light fruit salad or a refreshing cup of tea to balance the richness. I also like serving it alongside spiced coffee or a simple vanilla latte for an elevated dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I sometimes make mini cheesecake cups with sugar cookie dough bites on top — cute, portable, and just as delicious. Another fun idea is to swirl colorful sprinkles on the frosting to create a rainbow effect that’s perfect for birthdays and celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and creamy for up to 5 days — although it rarely lasts that long in my home!

Freezing

Freezing this cheesecake works great. I slice it first, then wrap individual pieces in plastic and foil before popping them in the freezer. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

I actually prefer to eat this cheesecake cold or at room temperature, but if you want to warm it slightly, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes—it softens naturally without losing its charm or flavor.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it perfectly marries two of my favorite desserts into one unforgettable bite. I remember the first time I brought it to a holiday party and watching everyone’s delight as they discovered the sugar cookie dough bites baked right into the luscious cheesecake. If you want a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is fun, I promise you’ll enjoy making and sharing this recipe just as much as eating it. Give it a try — I’m betting it’ll become your new go-to sweet treat, too.

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