Prepare the Sugar Cookie Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough: If you’re using store-bought sugar cookie dough, simply take it out of the package. For homemade dough, roll it into a ball and press it into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.
3. Press into the Pan: Evenly press the dough into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
4. Bake: Bake the sugar cookie crust in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Mix the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth.
2. Add the Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. You can also add cornstarch at this point if you want a thicker texture, but it’s optional.
4. Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Spread the Filling: Once the sugar cookie crust has cooled, spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
2. Chill: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until the filling has set and is firm to the touch.