Few desserts bring together the magic of Christmas quite like these cookie cheesecake bars. They combine the nostalgia of sugar cookies with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all in a festive, colorful, and shareable form. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or gifting, this recipe is a true showstopper for the season.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Crust and Topping
2 tubes (16.5 oz each) refrigerated sugar cookie dough
½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Cheesecake Filling
2 packages (8 oz or 225 g each) full-fat cream cheese, softened
⅔ cup (135 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Red and green sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
Prepare the Pan and Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the uncovered parts of the pan.
Make the Spiced Cookie Base
In a large bowl, combine one tube of sugar cookie dough with flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix with your hands or a pastry cutter until crumbly and evenly spiced.
Press the Crust
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it firmly and evenly into the bottom to form the base. Bake for 12 minutes, then remove from the oven. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2–3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low until just blended. Scrape the bowl and add vanilla and almond extract. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and creamy.
Assemble the Layers
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the warm crust, spreading evenly with an offset spatula. Break the second tube of cookie dough into pea-sized chunks and scatter across the cheesecake layer. Top with red and green sprinkles.
Bake the Bars
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes at 325°F (165°C). The edges should be set, while the center still has a slight jiggle.
Cool and Chill
Place the pan on a wire rack and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Slice and Serve
Lift the chilled cheesecake block from the pan using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into squares with a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are versatile and perfect for holiday gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with other seasonal treats such as gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or fudge for a festive dessert spread. They also make a thoughtful edible gift when wrapped in parchment and placed inside a holiday tin. For parties, serve small squares on a dessert table decorated with candy canes and fairy lights for extra Christmas charm.
Ingredient Notes
Using refrigerated sugar cookie dough makes this recipe quick and approachable, while adding flour and spices enhances both texture and flavor. Cinnamon and nutmeg give a warm holiday aroma that balances beautifully with the creamy filling. Almond extract is optional but adds a subtle, festive depth of flavor. Full-fat cream cheese is best for a rich, creamy cheesecake texture that holds its shape once chilled.
Variations
Chocolate lovers can substitute half the sugar cookie dough with refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough for a marbled effect. For a peppermint twist, replace almond extract with peppermint extract and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before baking. You could also swirl in a spoonful of raspberry or cranberry jam into the cheesecake layer for a fruity holiday version.
Storage Tips
These bars store well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them by wrapping individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Make-Ahead Option
Because the bars need several hours to chill, they are ideal for making a day in advance. Prepare them the night before your party, and they will be ready to slice and serve the next day. This make-ahead feature also makes them excellent for gifting during the busy holiday season.
Festive Touches
Decorating these bars is half the fun. Red and green sprinkles create a classic holiday look, but you can mix it up with gold stars, silver dragées, or snowflake sprinkles for added sparkle. Serve them on a tray lined with crushed candy canes or powdered sugar for a snowy effect. You could even cut the bars into tree or star shapes using cookie cutters once fully chilled, though this requires careful handling to avoid breaking the cheesecake layer.
Cultural Inspiration
Holiday cheesecake bars bring together American traditions of Christmas cookies with the timeless appeal of creamy cheesecake. Sugar cookies have long been a staple of Christmas baking, often decorated and shared in festive tins. Cheesecake, though richer and more indulgent, has become a popular centerpiece dessert during the holidays. Combining the two creates a dessert that feels both nostalgic and special, celebrating the joy of holiday gatherings and sweet traditions.
Tips for Success
Press the crust firmly so it holds together well after baking. Avoid overbaking the cheesecake layer; a slight jiggle ensures it stays creamy. Always allow the bars to cool fully before chilling to prevent condensation. For the cleanest slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut.
Holiday Pairings
Pair these cheesecake bars with hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and peppermint, or serve alongside mulled cider for a cozy holiday dessert table. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or a glass of eggnog, making them a versatile option for both kids and adults at festive gatherings.
Final Thoughts
These Christmas Cookie Cheesecake Bars are more than just dessert—they are a holiday tradition in the making. With their spiced cookie base, creamy cheesecake center, and festive topping, they embody the joy, flavor, and color of the season. Whether served at a party, gifted to friends, or enjoyed with family by the Christmas tree, they are sure to bring smiles and sweet memories to your celebrations.