Cookie Monster Cheesecake
Cookie Monster Cheesecake is a vibrant and playful dessert that perfectly blends creamy cheesecake with crunchy cookies and bright blue hues. This visually stunning and kid-friendly cheesecake features a rich cream cheese base, a buttery cookie crust, and colorful cookie pieces folded throughout, delivering an exciting textural and flavor contrast. Ideal for parties or cozy nights, this customizable recipe offers options for gluten-free and vegan adaptations, making it a fun and delicious treat everyone can enjoy.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free cookie substitutions)
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham crackers or cookies, finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- Blue food coloring, as needed for vibrant color
- 1 cup cookies (e.g., Oreo crumbs, chocolate chip chunks), crushed or chopped
- Prepare the crust: Start by crushing your graham crackers or chosen cookies into fine crumbs, then mix with melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even base. Chill to set while you prepare the filling.
- Mix the creamy filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing gently to maintain a silky texture. Add blue food coloring until you achieve that signature, vibrant Cookie Monster hue.
- Fold in cookie pieces: Gently fold in crushed cookies or cookie chunks to add delightful crunch spots throughout the cheesecake. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the texture intact.
- Bake carefully: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly, ensuring a creamy and smooth finish without cracks. Using a water bath is recommended to prevent cracking.
- Chill and decorate: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it set fully. Top with additional cookie pieces, whipped cream, or sprinkles to amp up the fun before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to avoid lumps in your batter.
- Do not over-bake; a slight jiggle in the center indicates perfect creamy texture.
- Utilize a water bath when baking to keep the cheesecake moist and prevent cracks.
- Chill the cheesecake fully overnight for the best texture and flavor melding.
- Add cookies just before baking to keep their crunch and prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Cookie Monster Cheesecake, blue cheesecake, cookie cheesecake, fun dessert, colorful cheesecake, kid-friendly dessert, gluten-free cheesecake