Sugar Cookie Cherry Cheesecake – Sweet, Creamy & Irresistible
Introduction
This Sugar Cookie Cherry Cheesecake is a show‑stopping dessert that combines three favorites in one: a buttery sugar cookie crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a glossy cherry topping. It’s the perfect treat for holidays, birthdays, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Unique crust: Sugar cookie dough adds sweetness and texture.
Creamy filling: Classic cheesecake richness.
Fruity topping: Cherry pie filling adds color and flavor.
Crowd‑pleaser: A dessert that looks bakery‑worthy but is easy to make.
Ingredients
Crust
1 lb Pillsbury sugar cookie dough (mini pieces or regular)
Filling
4 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 large eggs
Topping
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a springform pan.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Press sugar cookie dough evenly into bottom of pan. Bake 12–15 minutes until lightly set. Cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare Filling
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla; mix well. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
Step 4: Bake Cheesecake
Pour filling over cooled crust. Bake 55–65 minutes until center is mostly set.
Step 5: Cool Gradually
Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour. Remove and cool completely. Refrigerate until chilled.
Step 6: Add Topping
Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over top before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Room‑temperature cream cheese: Ensures smooth filling.
Don’t overbake: Slight jiggle in center means perfect texture.
Extra flavor: Add almond extract or lemon zest to filling.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days; freeze without topping up to 2 months.
Variations
Strawberry Cheesecake: Swap cherry topping for strawberry pie filling.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate over cherries.
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Holiday Twist: Garnish with whipped cream and festive sprinkles.
Serving Ideas
Serve chilled with whipped cream.
Pair with coffee or hot cocoa.
Slice into small squares for party platters.
Garnish with fresh cherries for elegance.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade cookie dough?
Yes, any sugar cookie dough works.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—best when chilled overnight.
Q: Can I use other pie fillings?
Yes, blueberry, apple, or peach are delicious alternatives.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 55–65 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours+
Total Time: ~6 hours
Yield: 12 servings
Final Thoughts
This Sugar Cookie Cherry Cheesecake is creamy, fruity, and downright irresistible. With its cookie crust, luscious filling, and glossy cherry topping, it’s a dessert that will wow your guests every time.