If you’re dreaming of a dessert that captures the festive spirit and cozy comfort of the holidays, look no further than Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. This cheerful treat takes everything you love about sugar cookies—buttery sweetness, colorful sprinkles, and nostalgic joy—and folds it into a creamy, rich cheesecake that melts in your mouth. It’s the ultimate holiday centerpiece, yet simple enough for a weekend bake-ahead indulgence.

The base starts with a golden graham cracker crust, topped with a velvety cream cheese filling that’s speckled with red and green sprinkles. Each bite is smooth and creamy with a subtle vanilla flavor and a festive crunch. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or just need a pick-me-up, this cheesecake is guaranteed to bring smiles.

The beauty of this recipe is that you don’t need actual sugar cookies. Instead, we use the essence of them: vanilla, butter, and sprinkles. If you really want to go big, crumble actual sugar cookies into the filling or use sugar cookie dough for the base. But a classic graham cracker crust gives a more neutral crunch that balances the creamy filling.

Cream Cheese: This is the heart of any cheesecake. Use full-fat cream cheese for that signature richness.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tang of the cream cheese.
Eggs: Help bind the filling and give the cheesecake structure.
Sour Cream: Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang that brightens the flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Mimics the flavor of a classic sugar cookie.
Red and Green Sprinkles: For that iconic holiday cheer baked right in.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: The crust base, buttery and crisp.
Butter: To bind the graham cracker crumbs into a firm crust.

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake at 325°F for about 8 minutes to set.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat again. Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla. Fold in festive sprinkles.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the mixture over the cooled crust. Bake in a water bath at 300°F for 1 hour. Turn off oven and let the cheesecake sit inside for another hour before chilling.

Step 4: Chill and Decorate

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Top with whipped cream swirls and more sprinkles for that sugar cookie magic.

Serve chilled for the best texture. Each slice cuts beautifully and holds its shape, making it ideal for parties. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices individually, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months.

Hot Chocolate or Mocha

Rich drinks make a great pairing.

Mulled Wine

For adults looking for something festive and warm.

Peppermint Tea

The minty notes complement the vanilla in the cheesecake.

Fresh Berries

Add brightness and balance the sweet richness.

Caramel Drizzle

Take decadence to the next level.

Eggnog

A classic holiday drink that loves creamy desserts.

Spiced Nuts

Offer a crunchy, salty contrast.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas with a Twist?

If this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake got you craving more creamy creations, don’t miss these indulgent favorites:

Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls: A swirl of sweet strawberries in every bite.
White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake: A perfect pick for berry lovers.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies: Cookie meets cheesecake magic.
Cheesecake Fruit Salad: A lighter twist with fresh fruit and creamy flavor.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake: For those who like their cheesecake with a southern hug.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this festive treat to your favorite Pinterest board so you can make it again when the holidays roll around.

Tried it with crushed candy canes or extra cookie crumbs? Let me know your twist in the comments below.

Need more holiday-ready desserts? Explore what I’m baking daily over at SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 6 hours
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Bring some holiday sparkle into your kitchen with this rich and creamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake! With its festive sprinkles, buttery graham cracker crust, and smooth vanilla filling, this dessert is like a sugar cookie and a cheesecake had the most delicious baby. Perfect for Christmas parties, holiday dinners, or any cozy night in. Whether you’re looking for easy dessert ideas, holiday food ideas, or make-ahead treats, this cheesecake checks all the boxes for quick desserts, family baking recipes, and Christmas baking favorites.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press into pan. Bake for 8 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and blend well.

4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each.

5. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

6. Gently fold in the red and green sprinkles.

7. Pour batter over cooled crust and smooth the top.

8. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides.

9. Bake at 300°F for 1 hour. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside for another hour.

10. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

11. Garnish with whipped cream and extra sprinkles before serving.

Notes

For clean slices, dip your knife in warm water and wipe between cuts.

Let cheesecake rest at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving for best texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: holiday cheesecake, sugar cookie dessert, festive cheesecake, easy cheesecake recipe, Christmas dessert

What Kind of Sugar Cookie Should I Use?

Ingredients for the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

How To Make the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake