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Creamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

creamy sugar cookie cheesecake - featured image

A festive and creamy cheesecake with a buttery sugar cookie crust, perfect for Christmas dessert. This easy recipe combines nostalgic holiday flavors with a smooth, velvety filling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups crushed sugar cookies (store-bought or homemade, soft preferred)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Zest of one lemon
  • 2 tablespoons (15 g) all-purpose flour (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar (for dusting or optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Crush sugar cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin until you have about 2 cups (200 grams).
  3. In a medium bowl, combine crushed sugar cookies with 6 tablespoons (85 g) melted unsalted butter. Stir until crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
  4. Press the crust firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it tightly. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
  5. In a large bowl, beat 24 oz (680 g) softened cream cheese with 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes on medium speed. Scrape down sides to avoid lumps.
  6. Beat in 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream until fully incorporated.
  7. Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition to avoid overmixing. Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and lemon zest, folding in with a spatula.
  8. Optionally sift in 2 tablespoons (15 g) all-purpose flour and fold gently to stabilize the cheesecake.
  9. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  10. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Avoid opening oven door during baking.
  11. Turn off oven and crack the door open. Let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
  12. Remove from oven and chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  13. Before serving, optionally dust with powdered sugar or garnish with mini sugar cookies.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese and room temperature eggs to avoid lumps and cracks. Avoid overmixing the batter. Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven with the door cracked helps prevent cracks. A water bath is optional but can improve texture and prevent cracking. Chill overnight for best flavor and texture. Dairy-free and gluten-free substitutions are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: sugar cookie cheesecake, Christmas dessert, creamy cheesecake, holiday dessert, easy cheesecake recipe, sugar cookie crust