If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that blends the soft, buttery goodness of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake, you’ve just hit the jackpot! This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Festive Sprinkles Recipe is not only utterly delicious but brings a cheerful burst of color and holiday spirit right to your dessert table. Imagine biting into a luscious cheesecake layered with soft sugar cookie dough speckled with vibrant sprinkles—it’s a dream come true for both cookie and cheesecake lovers!
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Incredible flavor fusion: This recipe uniquely marries the beloved flavors of sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake, giving you the best of both worlds in each bite.
Festive and fun: The colorful sprinkles add a joyful pop of color and whimsy, perfect for celebrations or any time you want to brighten your dessert spread.
Impressive yet approachable: While it looks stunning and complex, the steps are straightforward enough to satisfy both experienced bakers and enthusiastic home cooks.
Customizable and shareable: You can easily swap sprinkles or even add your favorite extracts to personalize it, making it a guaranteed hit at parties or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The magic of this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Festive Sprinkles Recipe starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component, from creamy cream cheese to buttery sugar cookie dough and vibrant sprinkles, plays a vital role in delivering amazing texture, flavor, and eye-catching color that will wow everyone.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing and a smooth dough.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that tender crumb in the sugar cookie crust.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture for a tender sugar cookie dough; you can substitute with any dairy milk or a plant-based alternative.
- All-purpose flour: The clear base for the cookie dough and frosting—spoon and level for accuracy.
- Christmas colored jimmies sprinkles: These festive sprinkles bring fun and color. Feel free to swap with your favorite festive sprinkles or nonpareils.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake filling; full-fat cream cheese gives that ultra creamy texture.
- Plain yogurt or sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance sweetness and enrich the filling.
- Powdered sugar: Used in the frosting for that perfect silky finish without grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: Essential for that warm, inviting aroma throughout the cake.
- Eggs: Help set and stabilize the cheesecake filling for that luscious, creamy consistency.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Festive Sprinkles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Dough Base
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and prepping a 9-inch springform pan with grease and parchment on the bottom—this will make removing the cheesecake a breeze later. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add milk and vanilla for richness and aroma. Folding in the flour and salt carefully gives you a sticky but manageable cookie dough. Press about two-thirds of this dough evenly into your pan to form a beautiful base, then bake until it’s just golden at the edges—this sets the stage for our amazing cheesecake layers!
Step 2: Roll Out the Sugar Cookie Dough Balls with Sprinkles
While the crust cools, mix the remaining cookie dough with those festive jimmies sprinkles, and roll into tiny half-teaspoon sized balls. These little nuggets of joy will be nestled between cheesecake layers, giving each slice that playful surprise of cookie dough and sprinkle magic. Lay them out on parchment to keep them ready until it’s time to assemble.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Filling
Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until perfectly smooth—no lumps allowed! Add flour, yogurt (or sour cream), salt, and vanilla to enhance the richness and keep the cheesecake delightfully tender. Slowly incorporate eggs one at a time on low speed to avoid too much air, which helps prevent cracks while baking. Scraping the bowl as you go ensures a silky, homogeneous filling ready for layering.
Step 4: Layer and Bake Your Cheesecake
Pour a third of your cheesecake batter over the warm sugar cookie crust, then evenly dot half of your sprinkle-studded cookie dough balls on top. Repeat the layering with another third of the batter and the remaining cookie dough balls. Finish by pouring the last cheesecake portion on top and spreading it smooth. To keep the edges moist and the cheesecake from cracking too harshly, bake it in a water bath set on the bottom rack. Bake for just over an hour until the edges are golden and the center still jiggles slightly—this is perfection!
Step 5: Cool Gently and Chill Thoroughly
Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open, letting the cheesecake cool inside for an hour in total with a gentle release of heat—this helps it set beautifully without cracks worsening. After removing it from the oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours so it firms up into that creamy sliceable goodness we all crave.
Step 6: Craft the Sugar Cookie Dough Frosting
This frosting is a total game-changer! Start by heat-treating your flour to make it safe for raw consumption—either in the oven or microwave until reaching 160°F. Cool and sift it to keep the frosting smooth. Whip softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the cooled flour, salt, vanilla, and a splash of milk for spreadability. Finally, gently fold in more sprinkles to echo the festive theme here. This frosting is the perfect creamy, colorful crown for your cheesecake.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate Your Masterpiece
Carefully release the springform and move your cheesecake onto a serving plate or cake stand. Spread the sugar cookie dough frosting evenly on top, letting those joyful sprinkles shine bright. You can add extra assorted sprinkles for flair. Serve immediately or keep chilled until it’s time to impress all your guests with this colorful, creamy delight.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Festive Sprinkles Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the frosting and sprinkles, fresh berries or edible flowers can lend a fresh contrast and make each slice look extra special. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate ganache could add even more color and sweetness to this festive dessert.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or even a spiced mulled wine during the holidays. Light fruit salads or citrusy sorbets balance the richness, while some lightly salted nuts will add a lovely crunch alongside your slice.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice into neat wedges and serve individually on festive plates with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of leftover sugar cookie dough balls on the side. For a party, consider mini versions baked in cupcake tins—each bite is a colorful surprise! Layering it in clear trifle bowls also makes for an eye-catching dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover slices covered tightly in the refrigerator. The cheesecake maintains its creamy texture best when chilled, and the sprinkles help preserve that festive vibe even after several days. It’s best enjoyed within 4 to 5 days for ultimate freshness.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen slices last up to 2 months and thaw gently overnight in the fridge—perfect for prepping ahead of any celebration.
Reheating
Generally, cheesecakes are best served chilled, but if you prefer it a bit warmer, allow slices to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture; gentle warming might cause the frosting to melt and the layers to separate.
FAQs
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Can I use different sprinkles for this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Festive Sprinkles Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any of your favorite sprinkles—nonpareils, glittery sugar crystals, or even themed sprinkles for other occasions. Just be sure they’re sturdy enough to hold up in the baking process without bleeding color overly much.
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Why does my cheesecake crack, and is it a problem?
Cracking happens often with cheesecakes, especially here due to the moisture from the cookie dough in the layers. It’s totally normal and doesn’t affect the flavor—in fact, it adds a rustic charm. Cooling gently in the oven helps minimize cracks but don’t stress if they appear!
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
You can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and plant-based butter and milk, but note the texture and flavor may vary. Vegan egg substitutes like flax eggs could be tried, but baking times might need adjustment. This recipe shines best in its original form.
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How long does the frosting keep, and can I make it ahead?
The sugar cookie dough frosting can be made a day or two ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container. Bring it back to room temperature and re-whip briefly before frosting the cheesecake for a perfectly smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing a dessert that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat, and this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Festive Sprinkles Recipe will bring that joy to your table for sure. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a birthday, or just treating yourself, this cake’s creamy layers and playful sprinkles make every bite feel like a happy occasion. Give it a try—you might just have found your new favorite festive dessert!
Print
Sugar Cookie Cheesecake with Festive Sprinkles Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 (9 inch) cheesecake, serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of buttery sugar cookie dough and creamy cheesecake layers, studded with festive Christmas sprinkles. Featuring a baked sugar cookie crust, sprinkle-studded cookie dough balls layered within a luscious cheesecake filling, and topped with a smooth sugar cookie dough frosting with sprinkles, this dessert makes a perfect holiday centerpiece that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Sugar Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60mL) whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups (325g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (40g) Christmas colored jimmies sprinkles
Cheesecake Filling
- 4 (8oz) bricks cream cheese (32oz / 900g total), softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (33g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt or sour cream, at room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
Sugar Cookie Dough Frosting
- 1/3 cup (45g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 cups (260g) powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 tablespoons Christmas colored jimmies sprinkles
- Assorted Christmas sprinkles (optional, for decorating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Position a rack in the center of your oven and another rack on the bottom. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9″ springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Sugar Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a wooden spoon until pale and fluffy. Add milk and vanilla extract and beat until combined. Fold in flour and salt until you have a sticky, streak-free cookie dough. Portion out about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared springform pan and spread evenly. Bake this crust in the center oven rack for 20-25 minutes until the surface is no longer shiny and edges are lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Sprinkle Cookie Dough Balls: Mix the remaining one-third of cookie dough with Christmas jimmies sprinkles. Scoop bite-sized pieces (about 1/2 teaspoon), shape into balls, and arrange on parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Set aside for layering later.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and lump-free. Scrape down sides and bottom of the bowl. Add flour, yogurt (or sour cream), salt, and vanilla extract; mix until incorporated. On low speed, add eggs one at a time, mixing just until each egg disappears before adding the next. After two eggs, scrape bowl again. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles.
- Layer the Cheesecake: Pour one-third of the cheesecake batter over the slightly cooled cookie crust. Evenly scatter half of the sprinkle cookie dough balls on top. Add another one-third of the cheesecake batter to cover the dough balls, then evenly distribute the remaining dough balls on top. Pour the final third of cheesecake batter over everything and spread evenly.
- Bain-Marie Setup and Baking: Fill a large baking pan with about 2 inches of boiling water and place it on the bottom oven rack. Place the cheesecake on the center rack above the water pan. Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes, until puffed and golden around the edges and the center jiggles slightly when shaken. Cracking is normal due to the moisture from cookie dough.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off oven and crack the door open slightly. Cool cheesecake inside the oven for 30 minutes. Run a paring knife around edges to loosen from pan. Continue cooling in oven for another 30 minutes. Remove and allow to reach room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or until firm.
- Heat-Treat Flour for Frosting: To make flour safe to eat, heat-treat it by either baking at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes until 160°F internally or microwaving in 30-second bursts until 160°F. Let cool completely, then sift.
- Make Sugar Cookie Dough Frosting: Whip softened butter until smooth in a bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Blend in cooled, sifted flour. Add salt, vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon milk; whip until light and fluffy. Add more milk to adjust consistency if needed. Fold in Christmas jimmies sprinkles.
- Decorate and Serve: Remove sides of springform pan. Transfer cheesecake to serving plate or cake stand. Spread frosting evenly over top and decorate with assorted Christmas sprinkles if desired. Serve immediately or keep chilled in refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixtures and even baking.
- The cheesecake batter should be mixed on low speed when adding eggs to avoid excess air, which can cause cracking.
- The water bath (bain-marie) helps prevent the cheesecake from drying out and cracking excessively during baking.
- Cracks in the cheesecake are normal due to moisture from the cookie dough layers.
- Heat treating the flour in the frosting is essential for food safety since the frosting uses raw flour.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven reduces cracking and shrinking.
- You can switch plain yogurt with sour cream in the filling as preferred.
- Keep the cheesecake refrigerated if not serving right away; it is best served chilled.
- Sprinkles can be customized seasonally or omitted for a simpler look.
