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There’s something undeniably joyful about sugar cookies and something irresistibly decadent about cheesecake. Now imagine those two holiday favorites combined into one show-stopping dessert: Sugar Cookie Cheesecake. With a soft sugar cookie crust, a creamy vanilla cheesecake center, playful cookie dough bites, and a dreamy white chocolate ganache topping, this dessert is pure magic—especially during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A dessert mashup done right – Combines the best of both worlds: sugar cookies + cheesecake.
Beautiful presentation – Those colorful sprinkles and layers make it a festive centerpiece.
Texture heaven – Buttery crust, smooth filling, chewy cookie dough, and velvety ganache.
Perfect for holidays – The colors, flavors, and richness make it ideal for Christmas celebrations.
Make-ahead friendly – You can prepare this cheesecake in advance, which is perfect for busy hosts.
Crowd-pleaser – Everyone—from kids to adults—loves a good cheesecake and sugar cookie combo.

If you’re looking to make an impression with your dessert table this year, this is the one.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

To create the ultimate Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, you’ll build four layers: a sugar cookie crust, cookie dough balls, creamy cheesecake, and white chocolate ganache. Here’s what you’ll need for each layer:

Sugar Cookie Crust:

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup white granulated sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 large egg, room temperature
1 egg yolk, room temperature
⅓ cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)

Cookie Dough Balls:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup white granulated sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 tbsp milk
½ cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)

Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
¾ cup white granulated sugar
½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), room temperature
¼ cup heavy cream, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
4 large eggs, room temperature
¾ of the cookie dough balls, chopped into small pieces

White Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup white chocolate chips
⅓ cup heavy cream

Let’s Get Started

Time to bring it all together! This recipe is made in steps but is well worth the effort.

1. Make the Cookie Dough Balls

In a medium bowl, mix flour and salt.
In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add vanilla and milk, then slowly mix in the flour mixture.
Fold in the sprinkles.
Roll into small balls (about ½ to 1 inch), and set on a tray. Refrigerate while you prepare the crust and filling.

2. Make the Sugar Cookie Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in vanilla, egg, and egg yolk until smooth.
Mix in the dry ingredients, then gently fold in sprinkles.
Press dough into the bottom of the springform pan in an even layer.
Bake for 12–14 minutes, just until the edges are slightly golden. Let cool completely.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add sugar, sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined (don’t overmix).
Gently fold in ¾ of the cookie dough balls, chopped into small pieces.
Pour the filling over the cooled cookie crust.

4. Bake the Cheesecake

Wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger roasting pan.
Pour hot water into the roasting pan, about halfway up the sides.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55–70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Remove from oven, let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

5. Make the White Chocolate Ganache

In a heatproof bowl, add white chocolate chips.
Heat heavy cream in the microwave until just simmering, then pour over the chocolate.
Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Let cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake.
Top with the remaining cookie dough balls and extra sprinkles, if desired.

Servings and Pairing

This cheesecake serves 12–14 slices, depending on how you cut it.

Pair with:

A hot mug of coffee or tea
Cold milk (classic!)
A glass of eggnog or spiced cider
Fresh berries for a contrast to the richness

Variations

Want to change things up a bit? Here are a few fun twists:

Different sprinkles – Use birthday sprinkles for a funfetti twist, or pastel sprinkles for Easter.
Add white chocolate chips to the filling for extra sweetness.
Make it gluten-free – Substitute gluten-free flour blends in both the crust and cookie dough.
Use flavored extracts – Try almond or peppermint extract for a festive spin.
Mini cheesecakes – Bake in muffin tins with liners for individual servings.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator – Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer – Slice and freeze individual portions wrapped tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Make ahead – This cheesecake tastes best when made 1 day in advance, giving it time to set fully.

FAQs

Can I eat the cookie dough in the cheesecake filling?

Yes! The cookie dough is egg-free and safe to eat raw. You can also heat-treat the flour beforehand if desired.

Do I need a water bath?

Using a water bath helps prevent cracks and gives the cheesecake a smooth, creamy texture. It’s highly recommended.

Can I use a different crust?

You can use a graham cracker or shortbread crust, but the sugar cookie crust is part of what makes this dessert unique.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Use full-fat brick-style cream cheese for the best texture. Avoid whipped or spreadable varieties.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight, making it perfect for prepping ahead.

Final Thoughts

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is a joyful, festive dessert that turns two beloved treats into one unforgettable experience. From its sprinkle-filled cookie base to its luscious cheesecake center and the cookie dough surprises throughout, every layer brings something special. Topped with a silky white chocolate ganache, it’s the kind of dessert that earns you repeat requests at every holiday gathering.

Sugar Cookie Cheesecake