Christmas Cookie Cheesecake is a festive and indulgent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet crunch of holiday cookies. With a crumbly Christmas cookie crust and a decadent filling, this cheesecake is perfect for any holiday celebration. It’s easy to make and will surely become a favorite addition to your Christmas dessert table.

Ingredients

2 cups crushed Christmas cookies
1/2 cup melted butter
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup Christmas cookie crumbs

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine crushed Christmas cookies and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Gently fold in the cookie crumbs.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
Allow the cheesecake to cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)

Variations

Flavored Cookie Crust: Experiment with different holiday cookie flavors, like gingerbread or peppermint, to create a unique crust.
Toppings: Add festive toppings such as whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or sprinkles for extra holiday flair.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top for a rich, sweet finish.
Fruit: Top with fresh berries or a fruit compote to balance out the richness of the cheesecake.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Reheating: It’s best to enjoy the cheesecake chilled, but you can bring it to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving if preferred.

10 FAQs

Can I use regular cookies instead of Christmas cookies? Yes, you can use any type of cookies you prefer, such as gingerbread, sugar cookies, or shortbread, for both the crust and the filling.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time? Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It needs at least 3 hours to chill, but it can be made a day or two before serving.
Can I use a different type of crust? You can substitute the cookie crust with a traditional graham cracker crust or even a crust made from nuts or pretzels for a different texture.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done? The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I use flavored cream cheese? You can use flavored cream cheese, such as cinnamon or chocolate, to enhance the holiday flavors of the cheesecake.
Can I use sour cream in the filling? Yes, sour cream can be added to the filling to make it richer and creamier.
Can I top this cheesecake with fruit? Yes, fresh berries or a berry compote can complement the richness of the cheesecake beautifully.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free cookies for the crust and ensure that the cream cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a springform pan? Yes, you can use a regular cake pan, but a springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake once it’s set.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill? The cheesecake should chill for at least 3 hours before serving, but it’s even better if left overnight.

Conclusion

Christmas Cookie Cheesecake is a rich and festive dessert that combines the best of both worlds: creamy cheesecake and the sweet crunch of holiday cookies. Whether you’re making it for a Christmas dinner or as a holiday treat for family and friends, this cheesecake will be sure to impress. Its simple preparation and impressive presentation make it a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations.