Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful treat that brings the joy of the holidays to your table. Perfect for Christmas or any festive occasion, this dessert features a sweet sugar cookie crust and a creamy cheesecake filling dotted with delicious cookie dough balls. Topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike. With its vibrant sprinkles and comforting flavors, this cheesecake stands out as a festive centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of sugar cookies and creamy cheesecake creates a deliciously unique dessert.
• Festive Appeal – Bright Christmas sprinkles add color and cheer, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Easy to Make – Despite its impressive appearance, this cheesecake is simple enough for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Delight – Enjoy it during the holidays or any time you crave something sweet and special.
• Decadent Toppings – The white chocolate ganache elevates this dessert to an extraordinary level of indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch springform pan
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet

Why These Tools Matter

• Electric mixer – This tool makes mixing the cream cheese and other ingredients quick and easy, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Springform pan – A must-have for cheesecakes; it allows you to remove the cake easily without damaging its shape.
• Rubber spatula – Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in ingredients without losing any mixture.

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Crust

• 1 3/4 cup All-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 1 Large egg (room temperature)
• 1 Egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1/3 cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)

For the Cookie Dough Balls

• 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 5 TBSP Milk
• 1/3 cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 32 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• 2/3 cup Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar from Wholesome
• 3/4 cup Sour cream (room temperature or Greek yogurt)
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream (room temperature)
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 4 Large eggs (room temperature)
• 2/3 Cookie dough balls

For the White Chocolate Ganache

• 1 cup White chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup Heavy cream

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together unsalted butter and cane sugar until fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, egg, egg yolk, and blend well. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until combined. Fold in Christmas sprinkles before pressing this mixture into the bottom of a greased springform pan.

Step 2: Make Cookie Dough Balls

In a separate bowl, mix together all-purpose flour and salt. Cream unsalted butter with cane sugar until light. Stir in vanilla extract and milk until smooth. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients until fully combined. Finally, fold in Christmas sprinkles. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat room-temperature cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add cane sugar until well mixed. Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble Cheesecake

Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in your springform pan. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough balls randomly over this layer. Pour remaining cheesecake filling on top to cover everything evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for about 80 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in center. Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool inside with door ajar for an hour.

Step 6: Chill & Prepare Ganache

Once cooled completely at room temperature, transfer cheesecake to refrigerator to chill for at least four hours or overnight if possible. To make ganache, heat heavy cream until warm but not boiling; pour over white chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for several minutes then stir until smooth.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Remove chilled cheesecake from springform pan carefully. Pour white chocolate ganache over top evenly before garnishing with extra cookie dough balls if desired. Slice into pieces and serve chilled! Enjoy your delightful Sugar Cookie Cheesecake!

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Serving sugar cookie cheesecake is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with creative presentations and complementary flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dessert stand out.

Individual Portions

• Use small dessert cups or ramekins to serve individual slices of cheesecake. This makes for a charming presentation and allows guests to enjoy their own personal treat.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish each slice with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cheesecake beautifully.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for an extra creamy texture. You can also sprinkle some Christmas sprinkles for a festive touch.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cheesecake before serving. This adds an indulgent layer of flavor that complements the white chocolate ganache.

Ice Cream

• Serve each slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm, rich cheesecake.

Coffee Pairing

• Offer a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot cocoa as a beverage option. The warmth and richness of these drinks pair well with the sugar cookie cheesecake.

How to Perfect Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

To ensure your sugar cookie cheesecake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature will help create a smooth filling without lumps.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding eggs to avoid incorporating too much air into the batter, which can cause cracks during baking.
• Bake in a water bath: To prevent cracking, place your cheesecake pan inside a larger baking dish filled with water while baking. This creates steam and helps regulate temperature.
• Cool gradually: Allow your cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour after baking. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface.
• Chill overnight: For best results, let your cheesecake chill overnight before serving. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully together.
• Add extra toppings: Consider adding more cookie dough balls or festive sprinkles on top just before serving for added visual appeal and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Pairing side dishes with sugar cookie cheesecake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful suggestions:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cheesecake.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats complement the flavors in your cheesecake while adding elegance.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
4. Coffee Cake: The crumbly texture and cinnamon flavor of coffee cake offer a wonderful contrast.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this over both the cheesecake and any sides for an indulgent touch.
6. Frozen Yogurt Parfait: Layer frozen yogurt with granola and fruit for a light accompaniment.
7. Mini Pastries: Offer an assortment of mini pastries for variety; they add sophistication to your dessert table.
8. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their savory flavors provide balance against sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy cheesecake. Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing cracks during baking. Mix just until combined to maintain a creamy texture.
• Not Prepping the Pan Properly: A poorly greased or unlined pan can make it difficult to remove the cheesecake. Use parchment paper or grease the bottom and sides well for easy release.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cheesecake as it bakes and use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean with a slight jiggle in the center.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allowing the cheesecake to cool completely before slicing is crucial. Cutting too early can cause it to crumble and lose shape.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 20-30 seconds until slightly warmed.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes, checking regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delightful dessert combining a sugar cookie crust with creamy cheesecake filled with cookie dough balls, topped with white chocolate ganache.

Can I customize my Sugar Cookie Cheesecake?

Absolutely! You can add different sprinkles or swap out the white chocolate ganache for another topping like dark chocolate or caramel sauce.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To minimize cracking, avoid overmixing your batter and ensure you bake it at a low temperature. Letting it cool gradually also helps maintain its structure.

How long does Sugar Cookie Cheesecake last?

When stored properly, this dessert will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen.

Conclusion

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is not only festive but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its delicious layers and fun toppings, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a sweet treat that everyone will love!

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