Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Recipe

Craving a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake? Dive into the world of Snickerdoodle Cheesecake, where creamy cheesecake meets a snickerdoodle cookie crust, topped with a sprinkle of irresistible cinnamon sugar. My obsession with all things snickerdoodle led me to create this recipe, aiming to capture the essence of a snickerdoodle cookie in a decadent cheesecake form. The key to this recipe’s success lies in its velvety smooth texture and the bold, warm notes of cinnamon that shine through in every bite.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect Snickerdoodle Cheesecake requires a harmonious blend of ingredients for the snickerdoodle crust, the velvety cheesecake filling, and the irresistible cinnamon sugar topping.

For the Snickerdoodle Crust

• 10 ounces shortbread cookies (finely crushed or ground in a food processor)
• 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
• ¼ cup (½ stick) butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• Two 8-ounce packages cream cheese, at room temperature
• 8 ounces sour cream
• 1 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs

For the Topping

• 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Required Equipment

When preparing a delightful snickerdoodle cheesecake, having the right equipment is essential to ensure a successful outcome. Here are some key pieces of equipment you will need:

• Springform Pan: A springform pan is commonly used for cheesecakes as it allows for easy removal without damaging the delicate dessert.
• Round Cake Pan: If a springform pan is not available, a round cake pan with removable bottom can be used as an alternative. Just make sure to line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Directions

Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you are ready to bake the crust.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 10 ounces of finely crushed shortbread cookies with 1 tablespoon of granulated white sugar. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
3. Add Butter: Melt ¼ cup (½ stick) of butter and pour it over the cookie and sugar mixture. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and resembles wet sand.
4. Form the Crust: Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and about 1½-inches up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat glass to press down evenly, ensuring a compact crust.
5. Set Aside: Once formed, set the crust aside while you prepare the filling.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add two 8-ounce packages of cream cheese at room temperature. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth and creamy, eliminating any lumps.
2. Add Sour Cream and Sugar: Incorporate 8 ounces of sour cream and 1 cup of granulated white sugar into the cream cheese. Mix on medium speed until fully combined.
3. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the mixture. Continue mixing until these ingredients are thoroughly integrated.
4. Incorporate Eggs: Add three large eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until blended. Avoid overmixing to prevent incorporating too much air.
5. Pour Filling: Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of granulated white sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheesecake filling.

Baking the Cheesecake

1. Prepare for Baking: Place your springform pan inside a shallow baking pan to catch any potential drips during baking.
2. Bake: Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in its center but appear set around a 2½-inch area from the outer edge when gently shaken.
3. Initial Cooling: Remove from oven and place on a wire rack. Allow it to cool in the springform pan for at least 20 minutes.
4. Loosen Crust: Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the sides of the pan, which helps prevent cracks as it cools further.
5. Further Cooling: Let it cool for an additional 30 minutes before removing the sides of the springform pan.
6. Final Cooling and Chilling: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before covering it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

By following these detailed steps, you will achieve a perfectly creamy Snickerdoodle Cheesecake with a delightful cinnamon flavor that is sure to impress your guests!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delicious Snickerdoodle Cheesecake, there are a few ways to elevate the experience:

• Cinnamon Stick Accent: Place a cinnamon stick on each plate for an elegant touch.
• Decadent Drizzle: Drizzle a warm cinnamon caramel sauce over each slice of cheesecake for an extra indulgent touch.
• Whipped Cream Swirls: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice and sprinkle it with a dash of cinnamon.
• Cookie Crumble: Crush some extra cinnamon graham crackers and sprinkle them on top of cheesecake slices.
• Fresh Fruit Garnish: Serve each slice with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries.

Tips for Avoiding Cracks

To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. A water bath during baking helps maintain moisture and prevent cracking. Wrapping the springform pan in foil prevents leaks, which can disrupt the baking process and lead to cracks in the cheesecake.

Conclusion

Creating a Snickerdoodle Cheesecake is a delightful way to indulge in classic cookie flavors transformed into a rich and creamy dessert. By following these detailed steps and tips, you can achieve a decadent treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Remember to take your time, use the right equipment, and pay attention to baking temperatures for perfect results. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to baking, this recipe offers a rewarding experience that combines cheesecake and snickerdoodle cookies beautifully. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy this heavenly creation!

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