If you have a sweet tooth and a love for comforting desserts, you’re going to absolutely adore this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of buttery sugar cookie crust and creamy cheesecake filling, enhanced by subtle hints of vanilla and almond that come together in a wonderfully nostalgic dessert. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece that feels like a warm hug from your oven. Whether it’s for a holiday celebration or just a special treat, this cheesecake is bursting with flavor and texture, guaranteed to make your sweet moments unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats Recipe. From the rich cream cheese to the tender sugar cookie crust, every item has its moment to shine.
- Sugar cookie dough: Acts as the buttery, crisp crust that forms the base of the cheesecake.
- Cream cheese (softened): Provides the signature creamy and tangy texture essential to cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling without overpowering the flavor.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and extra moisture for a silky filling.
- Large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and enhances the overall taste.
- Almond extract (optional): Introduces a lovely nutty undertone that’s special but not mandatory.
- All-purpose flour: Stabilizes the filling and gives it the right structure.
- Powdered sugar: Used for the sweet, smooth glaze topping.
- Heavy cream: Combined with powdered sugar to create a luscious glaze.
- Festive sprinkles (optional): For that extra pop of color and fun—perfect for holidays or celebrations.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9-inch springform pan lightly. Take your softened sugar cookie dough and press it evenly across the bottom of the pan, creating a sturdy and delicious crust. Bake this crust for 12 to 15 minutes or until its edges turn a lovely light golden shade. This step sets the foundation of your dessert and delivers that crispy, buttery bite that’s impossible not to love.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until everything is smooth and lump-free. Next, add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it; then sprinkle in the flour. Mix just until everything is combined to keep the filling silky and light. Overmixing can chase out the air you want for that tender cheesecake texture, so take it easy here.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Pour your luscious cheesecake mixture carefully over the slightly cooled sugar cookie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Lower your oven temperature to 325°F before placing the cheesecake inside. Bake it for 45 to 55 minutes, watching for the edges to become set while the center still wobbles just a little—this gentle bake ensures the perfect creamy consistency.
Step 4: Cooling and Chilling
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool inside for about an hour. This slow cooling helps prevent cracks and keeps your cheesecake smooth. Afterward, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill it for at least four hours, preferably overnight, so the flavors meld and the texture firms beautifully.
Step 5: Create the Glaze and Decorate
Whisk together powdered sugar and heavy cream until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. Drizzle this sweet topping over your chilled cheesecake and sprinkle festive or colorful decorations on top if desired. This finishing touch adds a lovely shine and sweetness that perfectly complements the rich cheesecake.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance presentation and taste by adding whipped cream dollops or a scattering of crushed sugar cookies on top. Fresh berries or a light dusting of cinnamon can also add an elegant touch and extra flavor layers to this already delightful dessert.
Side Dishes
A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream pairs beautifully to balance the richness, while a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea can be just the right compliment to your sweet treat. The tangy cheesecake and warm beverages create a harmonious flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added drama. You can also make mini versions in muffin tins for parties or layer cheesecake chunks with fruit parfaits for a playful twist on this classic dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cheesecake keeps incredibly well when tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Chilling helps maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors, so your leftovers are just as enjoyable as when freshly made.
Freezing
If you want to store your Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats Recipe for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the creamy consistency.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, so rather than reheating, just let your slices come to room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes if you want a softer texture. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the delicate texture and cause the filling to separate.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought sugar cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough works wonderfully and saves time, but homemade dough adds a nice personal touch and can be customized with your favorite flavors.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal because it allows for easy release of the cheesecake. However, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, just be extra careful when removing the cheesecake.
Can I skip the almond extract?
Yes, the almond extract is optional. The vanilla alone provides plenty of lovely aroma and flavor, but a little almond extract adds a subtle, special note if you want to include it.
How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake surface?
Slow cooling the cheesecake inside the turned-off oven helps avoid cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overbake. These tricks keep the surface smooth and flawless.
Is the glaze necessary?
The glaze adds an extra sweet finish and beautiful shine, but if you prefer, whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar works just as well as a topping.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you dive into making this Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats Recipe soon. It’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and special, perfect for sharing with friends and family or just treating yourself to a delicious moment. The harmony of creamy cheesecake and buttery sugar cookie crust is simply irresistible, promising smiles with each bite.
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Sugar Cookie Cheesecake – Stephanie’s Sweet Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful Sugar Cookie Cheesecake, combining the buttery goodness of sugar cookie dough with rich, creamy cheesecake filling. This festive dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or any sweet occasion, topped with a luscious powdered sugar glaze and optional sprinkles for added charm.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 batch sugar cookie dough, refrigerated or homemade
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz softened cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Topping
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan. Press the sugar cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan forming a uniform crust. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract if using, and all-purpose flour, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the partially baked sugar cookie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight wobble.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for one hour to prevent cracking. Then transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to chill for at least four hours or preferably overnight for best texture.
- Prepare the topping: Whisk together powdered sugar and heavy cream until a smooth, pourable glaze forms. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Add festive sprinkles on top if desired.
- Serve: Slice the cheesecake into 12 pieces and serve chilled for a rich and festive dessert experience.
Notes
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean, neat slices.
- You can substitute the powdered sugar glaze with whipped cream for a lighter topping.
- Add crushed sugar cookies on top of the glaze for extra texture and decoration.
