Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Recipe

Indulge in a heavenly treat brought to life by combining the warm, cinnamon-laced delight of snickerdoodle cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake. A perfect dessert for any occasion, this snickerdoodle cheesecake recipe is a showstopper that will leave your guests craving for more.

Photos of Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Recipe

Almost all ingredients for this recipe are common kitchen staples, but you might need to check for a log of sugar cookie dough and vanilla frosting in your pantry. These two are key for the cookie base and the delectable topping. Make sure to add these to your grocery list if they aren't readily available at home.

Ingredients for the Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

Sugar cookie dough: This forms the base of the cheesecake and infuses it with a sweet, buttery flavor.

Cinnamon sugar: This blend of cinnamon and sugar gives the cookie base the characteristic snickerdoodle flavor.

Cream cheese: The star ingredient of any cheesecake, cream cheese gives the cake its creamy, tangy flavor.

Granulated sugar: It sweetens the cheesecake filling.

Sour cream: It adds a tangy flavor and smooth texture to the cheesecake.

Eggs: They act as a binding agent.

Vanilla extract: It enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake.

Ground cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake.

Kosher salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweet flavors.

Vanilla frosting: This is piped onto the cooled cheesecake for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.

One reader, Isacco Blanchard says:

This snickerdoodle cheesecake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the cinnamon sugar cookie crust and creamy cheesecake filling is pure bliss. The snickerdoodle cookies on top add a delightful crunch. It's a show-stopping dessert that's surprisingly easy to make. I can't wait to make it again!

Isacco Blanchard

Mastering the Techniques for Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350° and grease an 8” springform pan with cooking spray.

Combine cookie dough and cinnamon sugar: In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie dough and cinnamon sugar, stirring until evenly incorporated.

Press dough into pan: Press about half of the dough into the bottom of the springform pan, reserving the extra dough to bake as cookies.

Beat cream cheese: In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

Add sugar and sour cream: Add the granulated sugar and sour cream to the cream cheese, beating until light and fluffy.

Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well between each addition.

Stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and salt: Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of kosher salt.

Pour batter over crust: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cookie dough crust.

Bake cheesecake: Bake until slightly jiggly in the center, about 1 hour.

Cool cheesecake: Turn off the oven and open the door slightly to let the cheesecake cool for about 1 hour, then refrigerate until completely cool, at least 4 hours and up to overnight.

Bake snickerdoodle cookies: Roll the remaining dough into small balls (about a tablespoon), then flatten slightly. Place on a baking sheet and bake until starting to turn golden around the edges, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar: Before serving, sprinkle the top of the cheesecake with more cinnamon sugar.

Pipe frosting and garnish: Using a large star tip, pipe frosting around the edges of the cheesecake, then garnish with snickerdoodle cookies.

How To Make Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

This snickerdoodle cheesecake is a sweet treat made with a sweet and salty crust with a creamy cheesecake filling and a dash of cinnamon sugar on top.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 10 minutes

Cool Time: 5 hours

Total: 6 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

sugar cookie dough,refrigerated, 1 log
3tbspcinnamon sugar,plus more for garnish
8ozcream cheese,(3 blocks) softened
1cupgranulated sugar
¼cupsour cream
3large eggs
2tsppure vanilla extract
¼tspground cinnamon
pinchkosher salt
vanilla frosting

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and grease an 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine cookie dough and cinnamon sugar and stir until evenly incorporated. Press about half of the dough into the bottom of the springform pan.
In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and sour cream and beat until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well between each addition. Stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour batter over the cookie dough crust. Bake until slightly jiggly in the center for about 1 hour.
Turn off the oven and open the door slightly to let the cheesecake cool for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate until completely cool, at least 4 hours, and up to overnight.
Roll remaining dough into small balls (about a tablespoon) then flatten slightly.
Place on a baking sheet and bake until starting to turn golden around the edges for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Before serving, sprinkle the top of the cheesecake with more cinnamon sugar.
Using a large star tip, pipe frosting around the edges of the cheesecake then garnish with snickerdoodle cookies.

Nutrition

Calories: 204.60kcal
Fat: 10.33g
Saturated Fat: 5.51g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.80g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.66g
Carbohydrates: 25.10g
Fiber: 0.03g
Sugar: 24.76g
Protein: 3.35g
Cholesterol: 83.74mg
Sodium: 158.33mg
Calcium: 37.96mg
Potassium: 62.11mg
Iron: 0.38mg
Vitamin A: 117.14µg
Vitamin C: 0.05mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

When preparing the snickerdoodle cheesecake, it's crucial to allow the cheesecake to cool gradually to prevent the top from cracking. After baking, turn off the oven and slightly open the door to let the cheesecake cool slowly. This gradual cooling process helps to relieve any stress in the cheesecake and prevents it from cracking. Additionally, when you're mixing the cream cheese, sugar, and sour cream, make sure to beat until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter, creamier cheesecake.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

Prep ahead: Make the cookie dough and cheesecake batter the day before and refrigerate them separately. This will save time on the day you plan to bake the cheesecake.

Use store-bought: If you're short on time, consider using store-bought snickerdoodle cookies instead of making them from scratch. This can be a convenient time-saver.

Bake in advance: Bake the snickerdoodle cookies a day or two before assembling the cheesecake. This way, you can focus on the cheesecake on the day you plan to serve it.

Chill quickly: After the cheesecake has cooled at room temperature, place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes to speed up the chilling process before refrigerating it.

Efficient assembly: While the cheesecake is chilling, use that time to prepare the snickerdoodle cookies and frosting so that everything is ready for assembly when the cheesecake is fully chilled.

Substitute Ingredients For Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Recipe

sugar cookie dough - Substitute with graham cracker crumbs mixed with sugar and cinnamon: Graham cracker crumbs mixed with sugar and cinnamon can provide a similar sweet and crunchy base for the cheesecake.
cinnamon sugar - Substitute with ground cinnamon and granulated sugar: Mixing ground cinnamon and granulated sugar will provide the same sweet and spiced flavor as cinnamon sugar.
cream cheese - Substitute with full-fat Greek yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy texture similar to cream cheese.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 substitute for granulated sugar and provides a slightly caramel-like flavor.
sour cream - Substitute with plain full-fat yogurt: Plain full-fat yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream to add creaminess and tang to the cheesecake filling.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a binding agent and moisture in place of eggs in the cheesecake filling.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar depth of flavor and sweetness as vanilla extract.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to ground cinnamon.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt to enhance the overall flavor of the cheesecake.
vanilla frosting - Substitute with whipped cream: Whipped cream can be used as a lighter and less sweet alternative to vanilla frosting for topping the cheesecake.

Presenting Your Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Masterpiece

Elevate the snickerdoodle cheesecake: Create a stunning presentation by using a ring mold to shape the cheesecake into a perfect circle. Place it in the center of the plate for a clean and elegant look.
Garnish with snickerdoodle cookies: Place the freshly baked snickerdoodle cookies around the cheesecake, adding a touch of rustic charm to the plate.
Dust with cinnamon sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a delicate and aromatic touch.
Pipe vanilla frosting: Using a piping bag with a large star tip, pipe vanilla frosting around the edges of the cheesecake to add a touch of elegance and finesse.
Add a touch of color: Garnish the plate with a few fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry coulis to add a pop of color and a hint of tartness to complement the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few edible flowers, such as pansies or violas, around the plate to add a touch of sophistication and a subtle floral note to the dessert.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Cheesecake

Oven: Used for baking and cooking food by exposing it to dry heat.
Springform pan: A type of cake pan with removable sides, often used for making cheesecakes.
Cooking spray: Used to prevent food from sticking to pans and dishes during cooking and baking.
Large bowl: Used for mixing ingredients and preparing various dishes.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods.
Cooling rack: Used to cool baked goods by allowing air to circulate around them.
Electric mixer: Used to beat, mix, and whip ingredients for various recipes.
Star tip: A piping tip used for creating decorative borders and designs with frosting.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Your Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Creation

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the snickerdoodle cheesecake recipe:

Let the cheesecake cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the crust soggy.
Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure no parts are exposed to air. This helps prevent the cheesecake from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge.
Refrigerating: The cheesecake can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keep it in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back.
Freezing:
- For best results, freeze the cheesecake without any toppings like the vanilla frosting or snickerdoodle cookies. Add these when ready to serve.
- Wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Make sure it's completely sealed with no parts exposed.
- Place the wrapped cheesecake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air if using a bag.
- Label the cheesecake with the date it was made and freeze for up to 1 month for best quality and texture.
- To thaw, transfer the cheesecake from the freezer to the fridge and let it thaw overnight, keeping it wrapped so condensation doesn't form on the cake.
- Once thawed in the fridge, you can add toppings like the cinnamon sugar, frosting and cookies before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cheesecake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheesecake is heated through. This method helps to maintain the texture and prevent the cheesecake from drying out.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Cut the leftover snickerdoodle cheesecake into individual slices and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat each slice for 30-45 seconds on medium power, or until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cheesecake to become rubbery.
For a crispy crust and a creamy center, try using a combination of the oven and microwave methods. First, place the cheesecake slice on a baking sheet and heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the slice to a microwave-safe plate and heat it on medium power for 15-20 seconds, or until the center is warm and creamy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover snickerdoodle cheesecake for a quick and easy method. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cheesecake slice in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheesecake is warmed through and the top is slightly crispy.
For a no-heat option, allow the leftover cheesecake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This method works well if you prefer a softer texture and want to avoid any potential changes to the cheesecake's consistency that may occur during reheating.

Surprising Fact About Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

The snickerdoodle cheesecake recipe is a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts.

Is Making Snickerdoodle Cheesecake at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this snickerdoodle cheesecake recipe depends on the availability and price of the ingredients. Cream cheese and sugar cookie dough can be affordable, but the cost may increase if premium brands are used. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a relatively budget-friendly dessert option.

Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

This snickerdoodle cheesecake recipe is undoubtedly delicious, but it is not a healthy dessert option. The main ingredients, such as sugar cookie dough, cream cheese, granulated sugar, and sour cream, are high in saturated fats and added sugars. These ingredients can contribute to obesity, heart disease, and other health issues when consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe calls for a significant amount of sugar, which can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the sugar cookie dough with a whole-grain graham cracker crust to increase fiber content and reduce processed ingredients
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream to lower the saturated fat content
Decrease the amount of granulated sugar and replace some of it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Incorporate more cinnamon into the batter, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels
Serve smaller portions and pair the cheesecake with fresh fruit to add nutrients and fiber

Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Recipe

The combination of snickerdoodle and cheesecake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The use of sugar cookie dough as the crust adds a unique texture and flavor, while the creamy cheesecake filling is perfectly balanced with cinnamon and vanilla. The addition of snickerdoodle cookies as a garnish is a playful and charming touch. Overall, this recipe offers a wonderful blend of comforting flavors and textures that is sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful side dish to complement the rich and sweet flavors of the snickerdoodle cheesecake. The roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that will elevate the entire meal.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: The caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple slices will provide a refreshing and tropical contrast to the decadent snickerdoodle cheesecake. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The savory and crispy bacon-wrapped asparagus will add a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor to the dessert. It's a unique and unexpected pairing that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Delectable Alternatives to Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day. It's packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a delicious and healthy dinner option. The sweet and savory glaze perfectly complements the tender and flaky salmon.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert option. It's packed with tropical flavors and makes for a great make-ahead treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well with Snickerdoodle Cheesecake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a rich and creamy blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this classic spinach and artichoke dip. Served warm with crispy tortilla chips or fresh bread, it's the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying, this classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser. The tender chicken and al dente pasta are smothered in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, creating a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and onions are simmered in a luscious, tangy sour cream sauce, creating a dish that is both hearty and flavorful. Serve it over a bed of buttery egg noodles for a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please the whole family.

Why trust this Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Recipe:

This snickerdoodle cheesecake recipe combines the classic flavors of snickerdoodle cookies with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake. The use of cinnamon sugar in both the cookie crust and as a topping adds a warm and comforting flavor. The incorporation of vanilla extract and sour cream in the cheesecake batter ensures a rich and velvety texture. The step-by-step instructions and careful baking process guarantee a perfectly baked cheesecake. The addition of homemade snickerdoodle cookies as a garnish showcases the attention to detail and dedication to creating a delightful dessert experience.

Want to share your experience making this delectable Snickerdoodle Cheesecake or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of store-bought?

Yes, you can definitely use homemade sugar cookie dough for this recipe. Just make sure it's enough to cover the bottom of the springform pan and has a good amount of cinnamon sugar mixed in.

Can I substitute the vanilla frosting with something else?

Absolutely! You can substitute the vanilla frosting with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. It's all about personal preference and what you have on hand.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cheesecake ahead of time. In fact, it's best to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, to allow it to set properly.

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Just make sure it's wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream?

You can use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the cheesecake. It's best to use full-fat ingredients for the best results.