There’s something magical about combining the classic flavors of sugar cookies and cheesecake into one irresistible dessert. This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence for those who enjoy creamy, rich cheesecakes with a playful twist. With its buttery shortbread crust, soft sugar cookie dough layer, velvety cheesecake filling, and tangy sour cream frosting, it’s an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or just craving something sweet, this cheesecake will surely delight everyone at the table. The recipe is a bit more involved than a basic cheesecake, but the results are well worth the effort.

This cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. The shortbread crust offers a crispy and sweet base, the sugar cookie dough adds a fun layer of flavor, and the creamy cheesecake filling brings everything together perfectly. Topped with a smooth sour cream frosting and colorful sprinkles, it’s a stunning dessert that tastes as good as it looks. With every bite, you’ll experience the familiar comfort of a sugar cookie combined with the richness of cheesecake, making it the best of both worlds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The fusion of sugar cookies and cheesecake offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making each bite a sweet surprise.

2. Fun to Make

The process of layering the sugar cookie dough, cheesecake filling, and frosting creates a fun, interactive baking experience that’s perfect for home bakers.

3. Perfect for Special Occasions

This cheesecake is visually stunning, making it an ideal choice for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion where you want to impress guests.

4. Customizable with Sprinkles

The jimmies sprinkles not only add color but can be tailored to any event or theme, giving you a chance to make it uniquely yours.

5. Creamy and Decadent

With its combination of rich cheesecake filling and smooth frosting, this dessert will satisfy any sweet tooth craving with its creamy, indulgent texture.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

All-purpose flour
Powdered sugar
Kosher salt
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Milk

For the Sugar Cookie Dough:

Unsalted butter, room temperature
Granulated sugar
Milk
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Kosher salt
Jimmies sprinkles

For the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake:

Full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
Granulated sugar
All-purpose flour
Vanilla extract
Almond extract (optional)
Sour cream, room temperature
Large eggs, room temperature

For the Sour Cream Frosting:

Unsalted butter, room temperature
Sour cream
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Sprinkles for topping

Variations

Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Cheesecake: Add mini chocolate chips to the sugar cookie dough for a chocolatey twist.
Fruit-Topped Cheesecake: Top the cheesecake with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
Nutty Crust: Incorporate finely chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts into the shortbread crust for added texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this cheesecake.
Flavored Frosting: Swap the vanilla extract for lemon or almond extract to add a different flavor to the sour cream frosting.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and kosher salt.
Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add milk and stir until the dough begins to come together.
Press the dough into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Dough

In a separate bowl, beat together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add milk, vanilla extract, and mix in the flour and salt until combined.
Fold in the jimmies sprinkles.
Roll out the dough and flatten it into a disc that will cover the top of the crust. Place it in the refrigerator while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Make the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Filling

Beat the cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add flour, vanilla extract, and almond extract (optional). Beat in the sour cream and eggs, one at a time, mixing until smooth.
Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust.
Place the chilled sugar cookie dough disc over the top of the cheesecake layer. Press lightly to adhere it to the filling.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Prepare the Sour Cream Frosting

Beat together the butter and sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by vanilla extract, until the frosting is fluffy and light.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the sour cream frosting over the top.
Decorate with additional sprinkles.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest cheesecake filling.
Don’t skip the cooling time! Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating to ensure it sets properly.
If you want a smoother finish, use a bench scraper to smooth the sour cream frosting on top of the cheesecake.
Make sure to let the cheesecake cool at room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

How to Serve

Serve this cheesecake chilled, straight from the refrigerator. It’s perfect for slicing and serving at parties, family gatherings, or as an after-dinner treat. Pair it with a cup of coffee or dessert wine for an added touch of indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled! Just let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use a graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust for a different flavor.

2. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

Bake at a lower temperature and avoid overbaking. Let it cool slowly to reduce the chances of cracks.

3. Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The cheesecake should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.

5. Can I use light cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture and flavor for this cheesecake.

6. How long does it take to make the cheesecake?

Allow for at least 6 hours of preparation time, including chilling time.

7. Can I skip the sour cream frosting?

Yes, you can skip the frosting if you prefer a simpler dessert.

8. How can I make this recipe more colorful?

Add more sprinkles or use colored frosting for a fun, festive touch.

9. Can I use flavored extracts instead of vanilla?

Yes, almond, lemon, or hazelnut extracts can be used for a unique flavor.

10. Can I use frozen sprinkles?

Yes, you can use any sprinkles, whether they are fresh or frozen, to decorate the cheesecake.

Conclusion

This Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a delicious, fun dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake and the nostalgic taste of sugar cookies. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply looking for something sweet, this treat is sure to impress. With its vibrant sprinkles, velvety frosting, and creamy filling, it’s the kind of dessert everyone will want to take a second helping of. Enjoy!