Holiday Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors and textures with this Holiday Sugar Cookie Cheesecake! It brings together the nostalgic sweetness of sugar cookies with the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake, creating the perfect dessert for your festive gatherings. Imagine slicing into this luscious treat, revealing a golden cookie crust topped with a velvety cheesecake layer, all crowned with fluffy whipped cream and colorful holiday sprinkles. It’s a guaranteed showstopper that will brighten up any holiday table!

Ingredients

For the sugar cookie crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the cheesecake filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour

For the topping:

  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • Holiday sprinkles
  • Additional sugar cookies, crumbled

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (includes chilling)
  • Yield: 10-12 servings

Directions and Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it lightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
  3. Add in the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until everything is well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared springform pan, forming a lovely crust.
  6. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth—this step is crucial for that perfect cheesecake texture!
  7. Mix in the granulated sugar until the mixture is perfectly smooth, with no lumps in sight.
  8. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully blended before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, mixing until just combined.
  9. Pour the creamy cheesecake filling over the cookie crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and not jiggly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly by now!
  11. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then pop it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.
  12. When you’re ready to serve, top the cheesecake with a generous dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle on some festive holiday sprinkles, and add a few crumbled sugar cookies for delicious texture.
  13. Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy the happy faces around the table!

Notes or Tips

  • For a little extra flair, consider adding a dash of almond extract to the cookie crust for a nutty twist.
  • Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the creamiest cheesecake filling.
  • You can prepare the sugar cookie crust a day ahead to save time on the day of serving.

Cooking Techniques

For this recipe, the key techniques include:

  • Creaming: Beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy helps create a tender texture in the cookie crust.
  • Mixing: Combine the ingredients until just incorporated to prevent the cheesecake from becoming dense.
  • Baking: Bake until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center; this will yield a smooth and creamy filling.

FAQ

  • Can I use a different crust? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a graham cracker crust or a gluten-free cookie option.
  • Is it possible to make this cheesecake ahead of time? Yes! This cheesecake keeps well in the fridge for up to five days, making it perfect for holiday meal prep.
  • How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best results.

Conclusion

This Holiday Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of sweet moments shared with loved ones during the holiday season. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, leaving you and your guests craving more. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy making this stunning dessert together. Happy baking!

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