Christmas desserts are meant to feel special. They should stop conversations mid-sentence, earn compliments before the first bite, and quietly become part of a family’s holiday tradition. Christmas Cheesecake does exactly that. Rich, velvety, and beautifully dressed for the season, this dessert combines classic baked cheesecake perfection with festive flair that makes it ideal for Christmas dinner, holiday parties, or a winter celebration centerpiece.

Unlike overly complicated holiday desserts, this cheesecake strikes the perfect balance between luxury and reliability. The filling is smooth and creamy without being heavy, the crust is buttery with just enough crunch, and the topping brings color, brightness, and seasonal charm. Whether served after a roast dinner or displayed proudly on a dessert table, this cheesecake belongs at the heart of Christmas entertaining.

Why Christmas Cheesecake Is the Ultimate Holiday Dessert

Cheesecake has long been a favorite for celebrations, but at Christmas it truly shines. The richness pairs beautifully with winter flavors, while the make-ahead nature removes stress from an already busy holiday schedule.

This Christmas cheesecake stands out because:

It can be prepared a day in advance
It slices cleanly and serves a crowd
The flavors are classic, crowd-pleasing, and adaptable
The presentation feels festive without being fussy

The cranberry topping adds gentle tartness that cuts through the creamy filling, while rosemary and sugared cranberries create a natural, elegant holiday aesthetic.

Ingredients for Christmas Cheesecake

For the Crust

Graham cracker crumbs
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

Full-fat cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Sour cream
Vanilla extract
Eggs, room temperature

For the Festive Cranberry Topping

Fresh or frozen cranberries
Granulated sugar
Water
Rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the crust
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press firmly into the base of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly.
Make the cheesecake filling
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Add sugar and mix until creamy. Blend in sour cream and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
Bake the cheesecake
Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
Cool gently
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for one hour. This prevents cracking. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Prepare cranberry topping
Simmer cranberries, sugar, and water until berries burst and sauce thickens. Cool completely before spreading on cheesecake.
Decorate and serve
Top cheesecake with cranberry sauce and garnish with sugared cranberries and rosemary just before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Christmas Cheesecake

Room-temperature ingredients are essential for a smooth filling
Mix gently once eggs are added to avoid air bubbles
Chill overnight for the cleanest slices and best flavor
Use a hot knife (wipe between cuts) for bakery-style presentation

Festive Variations

White Chocolate Christmas Cheesecake: Melt white chocolate into the filling
Gingerbread Crust: Replace graham crackers with ginger cookies
Orange Cranberry Cheesecake: Add orange zest to the batter
No-Bake Holiday Version: Use gelatin-stabilized filling and chill instead of baking

Serving Suggestions

Christmas cheesecake pairs beautifully with:

Mulled wine or spiced cider
Espresso or strong coffee
A drizzle of white chocolate or caramel sauce

Serve chilled but remove from the fridge 15 minutes before slicing for best texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make ahead: Up to 48 hours in advance
Storage: Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days
Freezing: Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe focuses on balance. The filling is rich but not dense, sweet but not cloying. The cranberry topping adds brightness, while the crust anchors the dessert with familiar comfort. It’s a cheesecake that feels festive without overwhelming the palate — perfect for long holiday meals.

A Christmas Dessert Worth Repeating

Christmas Cheesecake isn’t just dessert — it’s a statement. It tells guests they’re welcome, that the table was planned with care, and that the season deserves something special. Once served, it often becomes the dessert people request year after year.

Christmas Cheesecake

A rich, creamy baked cheesecake with a buttery crust and festive cranberry topping, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 1 5

Total Time 1 30

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 410

Ingredients

Crust

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
0.25 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup unsalted butter melted

Cheesecake Filling

24 oz cream cheese softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
2 tsp vanilla extract
3 eggs room temperature

Cranberry Topping

2 cups cranberries fresh or frozen
0.5 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup water

Equipment

Springform pan
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Saucepan

Method

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Combine crust ingredients and press into a springform pan. Bake 10 minutes.
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla, mixing well.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Pour filling over crust and bake 55–65 minutes until edges are set.
Cool gradually, then refrigerate at least 6 hours.
Simmer cranberries, sugar, and water until thickened. Cool completely.
Top cheesecake with cranberry sauce before serving.

Notes

Cheesecake can be made one day ahead for best texture.

Christmas Cheesecake (Festive, Decadent & Show-Stopping)