GINGERBREAD CHEESECAKE

Why Make This Recipe

Gingerbread cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the creamy richness of cheesecake. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or simply for satisfying your sweet tooth. With its unique flavor and festive appearance, this cheesecake will surely impress your guests and elevate any occasion.

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the gingersnap crumbs, melted butter, and sugar together. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.

  2. Make the Cheesecake: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until the mixture is smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the molasses, vanilla extract, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

  3. Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

  4. Cool and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, you may add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake

Gingerbread cheesecake can be served plain, but topping it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon adds an extra touch. This dessert is delicious on its own or paired with a warm beverage like coffee or hot chocolate.

How to Store Gingerbread Cheesecake

To keep your gingerbread cheesecake fresh, store it in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept for up to one week. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to three months.

Tips to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing; this will help avoid lumps in your cheesecake.
  • Use a food processor to crush gingersnap cookies for a finer crumb.
  • Take your time when mixing in the eggs; this ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

Variation

You can add chocolate chips or caramel sauce to the cheesecake batter for a different flavor. Another delicious variation is to incorporate chopped nuts or a layer of pumpkin puree to create a gingerbread-pumpkin cheesecake hybrid.

FAQs

Can I use graham cracker crumbs instead of gingersnap cookies?

Yes, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs, but the flavor will be different. The gingersnap cookies give the cheesecake its characteristic spice.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center may still be slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It needs to chill for at least 4 hours, but it can also be made a day or two in advance.

Print
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Gingerbread Cheesecake


  • Author: lu-ann
  • Total Time: 90 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful dessert combining gingerbread and creamy cheesecake, perfect for holiday gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the gingersnap crumbs, melted butter, and sugar together. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the molasses, vanilla extract, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
  3. Pour the cheesecake batter into the cooled crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
  4. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

Use a food processor to crush gingersnap cookies for a finer crumb. Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: gingerbread cheesecake, cheesecake, dessert, holiday dessert, festive dessert