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Dreamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Name: Dreamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 8 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 1 cup regenerative organic certified cane sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream; Sprinkles for decoration (optional)

When you think about desserts that manage to encapsulate the seasons and evoke feelings of celebration, a sugar cookie cheesecake tops the list. With its creamy base and delightful sugar cookie crust, this indulgent treat is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties. The vibrant colors of the sprinkles add a delightful touch of joy, and every bite feels like a hug. Let’s dive into this dessert that’s sure to mesmerize your taste buds and charm your guests.

Why Make This Recipe

The delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and a classic sugar cookie crust results in a dessert that is both familiar and extraordinary.
With joyfully colorful sprinkles, the cake adds a festive touch that is perfect for any celebration.
This recipe offers an indulgent twist on two classic desserts, ensuring you impress everyone at the table.

How to Make Dreamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

This step-by-step guide will take you through the art of creating a delicious dreamy sugar cookie cheesecake that balances sweetness and creaminess beautifully. Whether you are a baking aficionado or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust

To begin your culinary adventure, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting for it to heat, generously grease a 9-inch springform pan. This prevents any sticking, allowing for a smooth release of your cheesecake later on.

In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk this mixture together to ensure everything is well combined.

Now it’s time to cream your butter and sugar. In a separate bowl, take ¾ cup of unsalted butter at room temperature and cream it with 1 cup of Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. You’ll want to beat this for about 3 to 4 minutes to incorporate plenty of air for a soft, tender texture.

Once you achieve that fluffy consistency, reduce the mixer speed to low and add in one large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until just incorporated. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. This step is essential; overmixing can lead to a tough crust.

With your dough ready, press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Place it in your preheated oven to bake for approximately 12 to 15 minutes or until it turns a lovely golden hue. Once finished, remove the pan from the oven and let the crust cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Craft the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

Now that your crust has cooled, it’s time to make the luscious cheesecake filling. Lower your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) so the cheesecake can bake gently, providing that creamy texture we all love.

Begin by beating completely softened cream cheese on medium speed for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes incredibly smooth. Emphasizing this step will help eliminate lumps in your cheesecake. Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar and continue to beat until smooth, scraping down the sides of your bowl as necessary.

Next, stir in ½ cup of sour cream, ½ cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined. Here’s where you want to sprinkle in one tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the mixture—it acts as a stabilizer and prevents cracking later.

One at a time, beat in the eggs on the lowest speed possible. It’s essential to avoid overeating to preserve that smooth consistency—excess air could create unsightly cracks in your finished cheesecake. Be thorough in scraping the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is perfectly blended.

Step 3: Bake the Sugar Cookie Cheesecake to Perfection

It’s time for the exciting part—baking your cheesecake! To prevent any potential cracking, prepare a water bath. Tightly wrap the outside of the springform pan (with both your cooled crust and filling) in two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil.

Pour your creamy cheesecake filling over the cooled sugar cookie crust. Then, place your foil-wrapped pan in a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan so that it comes about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This gentle cooking method will yield a velvety texture.

Bake for about 60 to 75 minutes. You want the edges to be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. When the time is up, turn off your oven but keep the cheesecake inside with the door propped open for about an hour to let it cool gradually. This greatly reduces the risk of cracks.

Once it has cooled for an hour, remove it from the water bath and cool completely on a wire rack for several hours. After achieving room temperature, cover it loosely and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but ideally overnight. Allowing ample chilling time is key for proper setting and flavor development.

Step 4: Whip Up the Dreamy Sugar Cookie Frosting

Once your cheesecake is chilled and perfectly set, it’s time to prepare the crowning glory—the sugar cookie frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Gradually add sifted powdered sugar to it, ½ cup at a time, beating on low to avoid the sugar flying everywhere. Once all the sugar is incorporated, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for another 2 to 3 minutes until it’s airy and fluffy.

Now, for flavor, add a pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk or heavy cream. Beat until well combined. Check the consistency of your frosting; if it’s too thick, add more liquid, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve that perfect spreadable or pipeable consistency. For festive flair, consider mixing in some gel food coloring to match your occasion.

Step 5: Assemble and Decorate Your Masterpiece

Once your cheesecake is fully chilled and firm, it’s time for the grand assembly. Carefully run a thin knife around the edge of the springform pan to ensure the cheesecake releases easily when you remove the sides. Transfer the cheesecake to a serving platter, taking care to prevent any cracks.

With the cheesecake on the platter, spread the prepared sugar cookie frosting evenly over the top, using an offset spatula or creating decorative swirls for style. If desired, add sprinkles or colored decorating sugar—these little touches will make it even more festive.

Place the decorated cheesecake back into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set before serving. For clean slices, use a sharp knife, run it under hot water, and wipe it clean between cuts to maintain that beautiful appearance.

Keeping Dreamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake Fresh

To maintain the delightful flavors and textures of your sugar cookie cheesecake, consider these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store cheesecake in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days at 40°F.
Freezing: For long-term storage, you may freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Ensure it is tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Serving from Frozen: When ready to eat, thaw the cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions for Dreamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

When it comes to enjoying your dreamy sugar cookie cheesecake, the serving possibilities are limited only by your imagination. Here are some ideas to set the stage for this sweet indulgence:

Garnishes: Top slices with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle to enhance the flavor profile and elevate the presentation.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: The creamy texture of cheesecake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea, balancing the sweetness of the dessert.
Serve at Special Occasions: From birthday celebrations to holiday gatherings, this cheesecake can take center stage. Decorate it according to the occasion for an extra special touch.

Tips to Make Dreamy Sugar Cookie Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use ingredients like cream cheese, butter, and eggs at room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy batter.
Don’t Overmix: When incorporating eggs, mix on low and only until combined to avoid too much air, which can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
Chilling Time is Key: Ensure you refrigerate the cheesecake long enough (preferably overnight) to achieve the right consistency.

Variations or Substitutions

This recipe leaves room for creativity! Here are a couple of variations you could try:

Flavor Additions: Consider mixing in different flavors of extracts, such as almond or lemon, to give your cheesecake a unique twist.
Alternate Frosting: Instead of sugar cookie frosting, you could top it with whipped cream or chocolate ganache for a different flavor profile that complements the cheesecake.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! This cheesecake is ideal for preparing a day in advance, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully and ensuring a stress-free serving experience.

Q: How do I ensure my cheesecake isn’t cracked?
A: A water bath helps maintain stable temperature throughout baking and prevents cracking. Also, avoid overmixing the filling and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.

Q: What should I do if the frosting is too thick?

Add milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until you achieve your desired consistency.
Alternatively, if desired, you could incorporate flavored extracts to enhance the frosting’s taste.

Creating a dreamy sugar cookie cheesecake is as rewarding as it is delicious. Once you taste that luscious blend of cookie crust and creamy filling, you’ll understand why this dessert should have a place in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a sweet adventure that will dazzle your loved ones and leave them asking for seconds. Happy baking!