Introduction
Bring a burst of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this delightful Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake! It’s a scrumptious combination of creamy cheesecake layered on a sweet and crumbly sugar cookie crust. Topped with colorful, candy-coated chocolate pieces, this cheesecake isn’t just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat. Perfect for holiday celebrations, this dessert will surely become a cherished tradition.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar cookie crumbs (about 20 sugar cookies, crushed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup mini red and green candy-coated chocolate pieces (for decoration)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan to prepare for this decadent treat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie crumbs and melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are well-coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a delicious crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, reminiscent of a fluffy cloud.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring you beat well after each addition to incorporate all the silky goodness.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until everything is fully blended, creating a luscious filling.
- Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the sugar cookie crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges turn a lovely golden color.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to allow it to cool gradually. This step helps prevent cracking.
- After cooling, remove the cheesecake from the oven and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
- Before serving, sprinkle the top with mini red and green candy-coated chocolate pieces and dust lightly with powdered sugar for an extra touch of holiday magic.
Notes or Tips
For an even more festive flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the filling. Additionally, be sure to let the cheesecake fully chill to enhance its creamy texture. If you love a bit of crunch, you can also sprinkle some finely chopped pistachios or walnuts on top along with the chocolates!
Cooking Techniques
This cheesecake is baked using a water bath method if desired, which can help maintain moisture and prevent cracks. To do this, wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil before placing it in a larger baking dish filled halfway with hot water. This method creates a gentle steaming environment that results in a creamy cheesecake.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought sugar cookies instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Using store-bought cookies saves time and still delivers delicious flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, although we doubt there will be much left!
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can be kept for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
This Christmas Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt way to celebrate the season with loved ones. Its creamy texture and festive appearance make it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Enjoy every sweet bite, knowing you’ve created something truly special for this joyful time of year!