why make this recipe
Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are an enticing treat that beautifully combines the rich flavors of gingerbread with the creamy smoothness of cheesecake. These bars are perfect for gatherings, festive celebrations, or cozy nights at home. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional gingerbread, making it a delightful option for everyone who enjoys sweet, spiced desserts.
These bars not only taste amazing but are also easy to make. With the layers of a spiced cookie crust, a luscious molasses spice filling, and a creamy cheesecake topping, they are sure to impress. Share them with friends and family, or keep them all to yourself—either way, they’re irresistible!
equipment needed for Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
- 9 by 9 inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooking spray
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Whisk (optional)
What You Need to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
- 2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs (or speculoos/Biscoff cookies)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or neutral oil
How to Cook Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars Step by Step
Start by preheating the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9 by 9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the sides for easy removal later.
To make the crust, grab a mixing bowl and combine the gingersnap crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until all the crumbs are wet and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined baking pan. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes, until set. Once done, allow it to cool slightly.
Next, prepare the molasses spice layer. In a clean mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined. Carefully spread this molasses spice layer over the cooled crust to create an even layer.
Now, it’s time to make the cheesecake layer. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, sour cream, molasses, vanilla extract, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon. Mix until everything is fully blended. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour this cheesecake filling over the molasses layer, smoothing the top with a rubber spatula.
Bake the assembled bars for about 38 to 42 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and a bit jiggly in the center. Once baked, turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside for 30 minutes. Then, remove them from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. For the best texture, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight.
To make the drizzle, melt the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in short intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. Drizzle this melted chocolate over the cooled bars, allowing it to set before slicing them into squares.
how to make Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
Create the crust by mixing gingersnap cookie crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Press firmly into the baking pan and bake before letting it cool slightly.
Prepare the molasses spice layer by creaming butter with sugars until fluffy, then blending in egg, molasses, and vanilla. Mix the dry ingredients separately, then combine with the wet mixture. Spread this number two layer over the crust.
For the cheesecake layer, blend cream cheese until smooth before adding in sugar, sour cream, molasses, vanilla extract, ginger, and cinnamon. Incorporate eggs one at a time, then pour this mixture over the molasses spice layer.
After baking the bars, cool them in the oven and then at room temperature. Refrigerate for best results before melting white chocolate and coconut oil to drizzle on top. Allow to set before enjoying your delicious creation!
how to serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
Serving Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars is a delightful treat for any gathering. Once they are chilled and the white chocolate drizzle has set, remove them from the baking pan. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out easily.
Slice them into equal squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. For an added touch, you can garnish each slice with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream. These bars can be served on a festive platter for holiday parties or family gatherings, making them an eye-catching dessert.
To elevate the experience, consider pairing each bar with a cup of warm spiced chai or a classic holiday drink like eggnog. The creamy texture and spicy flavors match beautifully with these beverages, creating a comforting and satisfying dessert experience.
what to serve with Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars shine on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to enhance the experience. A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream adds a creamy component that contrasts nicely with the spicy flavors in the bars.
For a seasonal touch, serve the bars alongside some spiced cider or a hot cup of pumpkin spice latte. Alternatively, a simple dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can bring out their sweetness and richness.
You could also create a cozy dessert spread by adding an assortment of holiday cookies or fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears. These pairings create a lovely dessert table, perfect for entertaining guests during the holiday season.
how to store Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
To keep your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in the refrigerator. Once the bars are fully cooled and sliced, place them in an airtight container. If you’d like to stack them, place a layer of parchment paper between the rows to prevent sticking.
These bars can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have extra cookies, consider freezing them to enjoy later. Wrap each piece well with plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, simply leave them in the fridge overnight.
When storing the bars, avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near strong odors to ensure their flavors and textures remain intact.
tips to make Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
When making Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, it’s essential to use soft cream cheese for the cheesecake layer. Take it out of the fridge well ahead of time to allow it to become creamy.
Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake layer after adding the eggs. Mixing just until incorporated is key to ensuring the bars remain light and fluffy.
If you prefer a more pronounced spice flavor, consider increasing the amount of ground spices slightly. Adjusting the ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg to your taste will make the bars even more aromatic and delicious.
Additionally, ensure that the crust is pressed firmly into the pan to prevent it from crumbling when you cut the bars. A good crust base is essential for the smooth texture of the bars.
Finally, feel free to get creative with the drizzle. You could use dark chocolate or even a caramel drizzle for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
variation
If you want to mix things up, there are plenty of variations to try. One popular option is to add a layer of sliced apples or pears between the molasses spice layer and the cheesecake layer. This will add a delicious fruitiness and a different texture to the dessert.
Alternatively, you could incorporate nuts into the recipe, like finely chopped pecans or walnuts. Stirring in nuts would add a pleasant crunch that complements the bars’ creaminess.
For a lighter option, consider making a pumpkin cheesecake layer instead of the traditional cheesecake. This variation brings a whole new depth of flavor that fits perfectly with the gingerbread crust.
If you want to make these bars gluten-free, you can substitute gingersnap crumbs with gluten-free cookies. This simple switch will accommodate those with dietary restrictions while keeping the flavors delightful.
best time to make Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are particularly great for the holiday season. The warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg evoke feelings of comfort and festivity, making them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert table.
Making them during winter months is a lovely way to celebrate the season, especially for gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas. These bars are also an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings where desserts are shared.
However, there’s no bad time to enjoy these delicious bars. They can be enjoyed any time of year when you’re craving something sweet and spiced. Any festive occasion or cozy evening can be made brighter with this delightful dessert.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is not letting the cream cheese soften enough before mixing. If it’s too cold, it will be lumpy and hard to incorporate, resulting in a grainy texture. Always take cream cheese out ahead of time for best results.
Another mistake is overbaking the bars. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking. They should be slightly jiggly in the center, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
Additionally, be cautious when layering the mixtures. Pouring them in too quickly could cause the layers to mix instead of remaining distinct. Take your time with each layer to create beautiful bars.
Finally, don’t skip refrigerating the bars for at least a few hours. This step helps to solidify the cheesecake layer, allowing you to cut clean pieces without the filling falling apart.
nutritional notes
While Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat, they also come with a mix of good and indulgent ingredients. Cream cheese, eggs, and butter are sources of protein and healthy fats. However, they also contain sugars and calories, so moderation is key when enjoying them.
These bars are often enjoyed during festive gatherings, and it’s important to keep in mind portion sizes. A small piece can satisfy your sweet tooth without overwhelming your dietary goals.
If you’re looking for a slightly healthier version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or substituting some of the sugar with a natural sweetener. Such adjustments can help make the treat a bit lighter without compromising on flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap and follow with aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you are looking for a dairy-free option, you could try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Note that this might slightly alter the texture and flavor but can work well for dietary restrictions.
conclusion
Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are a festive and delicious dessert that combines the warm flavors of gingerbread with creamy cheesecake. This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Whether for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
With various ways to customize the recipe, you can create your perfect version of these delightful treats. Enjoy making and sharing them with friends and family, knowing that they will bring smiles and delicious joy to any occasion!
