Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Name: Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups crushed sugar cookies; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream; ⅓ cup Special Occasion-colored sprinkles

Published: December 30, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: The steps are simple, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Festive Appeal: With its vibrant sprinkles, this cheesecake is visually striking, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Rich Flavors: The combination of cream cheese and sugar cookies creates a deliciously sweet treat that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Dessert: Great for Special Occasion parties, family gatherings, or as a show-stopping dessert at any festive occasion.
Make Ahead Option: This cheesecake can be prepared in advance, allowing you to save time on the day of your event.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake , you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9-inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

9-inch springform pan: This allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively while preventing mess.
Hand mixer or stand mixer: A must-have for achieving a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling with minimal effort.

Ingredients

To make this festive Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake , gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust

2 cups crushed sugar cookies (store-bought or homemade)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream
⅓ cup Special Occasion-colored sprinkles (red, green, and white)

For Topping

Whipped cream (optional)
ExtraSpecial Occasion sprinkles, for garnish

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed sugar cookies and melted butter. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate thoroughly.
Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until combined.
Gently fold in the colorful jimmies sprinkles with a rubber spatula to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust and smooth out the top for an even finish.
Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until almost set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Turn off your oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

After an hour, remove your cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set properly.

Step 6: Serve

Before serving, top your beautiful cheesecake with whipped cream and additional Special Occasion sprinkles for extra festivity! Enjoy this delightful treat during your holiday festivities!

Serving your Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake can enhance the festive feel of your gathering. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious dessert that will impress your guests.

Individual Slices

Serve each slice on a decorative dessert plate for an elegant touch.
Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.

Festive Garnishes

Sprinkle additional Special Occasion-colored jimmies over the cheesecake before serving.
Use fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Dessert Table Arrangement

Create a beautiful dessert table featuring the cheesecake as the centerpiece.
Surround it with other holiday treats like cookies and candies for variety.

Pairing with Beverages

Offer hot chocolate or spiced cider alongside the cheesecake for a cozy pairing.
Provide coffee or tea options to complement the sweetness of the dessert.

To ensure your Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use room temperature ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the sprinkles to prevent them from breaking and losing color.
Check doneness carefully: The center should jiggle slightly when done. This ensures a creamy texture after cooling.
Cool slowly: Leave the cheesecake in the oven after baking to prevent cracking caused by rapid temperature changes.
Chill overnight: Refrigerating the cheesecake overnight helps it set well and enhances flavors.

Pairing side dishes with your Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake can create a balanced dessert experience. Here are some ideas that will complement its sweet flavors beautifully.

Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These bite-sized treats are indulgent yet refreshing, making them an excellent pairing.
Spiced Gingerbread Cookies
Their warm spices create a comforting contrast against the creamy cheesecake.
Pumpkin Pie Bites
Mini pumpkin pies deliver seasonal flavors without overwhelming sweetness, perfect for variety.
Nutty Biscotti
Crunchy biscotti provide a delightful texture contrast with each spoonful of cheesecake.
Cinnamon Rolls
These soft, sweet rolls make for a cozy addition to any holiday dessert spread.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle
Offering a side of caramel sauce lets guests personalize their cheesecake experience with added sweetness.
Candied Nuts
A small bowl of crunchy, sweet nuts provides an appealing crunch alongside creamy desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake , it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Not Softening Cream Cheese: Always ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this helps achieve a smooth filling. Cold cream cheese can result in lumps.
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can incorporate excess air, leading to cracks during baking. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Skipping Cooling Time: Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven prevents cracking. Don’t rush this step as it’s crucial for a perfect texture.
Using a Warm Crust: A warm crust can cause the filling to melt slightly and not set properly. Ensure your crust is completely cooled before adding the filling.
Not Chilling Long Enough: For optimal flavor and texture, refrigerate your cheesecake overnight if possible. Cutting it too soon can lead to a messy slice.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Make sure the cheesecake is completely cooled before covering or placing it in the fridge.

Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Wrap each slice individually with plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Oven: Preheat to 325°F (160°C). Place cheesecake on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent a change in texture.
Stovetop: Use a double boiler method, placing the cheesecake on top of simmering water, and heat gently while covered until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making or enjoying your Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake , you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but it may affect the richness of the cheesecake slightly.

Preparation time is around 25 minutes, followed by baking and chilling time, totaling approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Can I add different sprinkles?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with any sprinkles or toppings you enjoy for added flair.

How do I know when my cheesecake is done?

The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This cheesecake can be made days in advance and stored in the refrigerator or even frozen for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This Special Occasion Sugar Cookie Cheesecake is not only visually stunning but also deliciously festive, making it perfect for holiday gatherings. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors, ensuring it’s tailored to your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a new holiday favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card