Description
These Christmas Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are a holiday twist on traditional cheesecake, offering a perfect balance of rich creaminess and warm spices. The base is a crisp, cinnamon-scented gingerbread crust, while the filling is a smooth cream cheese batter infused with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and molasses. The result is a decadent dessert that’s festive enough to impress your guests but simple enough to prepare in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Crust
2 cups (about 250 g) gingersnap cookie crumbs (or crushed gingerbread cookies)
¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground ginger
6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (60 ml) molasses (unsulfured or dark)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
â…› tsp ground cloves
Pinch of salt
¼ cup (60 ml) sour cream or heavy cream
Optional Toppings
Whipped cream or sweetened sour cream topping
Crushed gingersnaps or mini gingerbread men for garnish
Drizzle of caramel sauce or white chocolate
Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy lifting.
2. Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix gingersnap crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger.
Add melted butter and stir until evenly moistened.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, and molasses; beat until creamy.
Mix in eggs, one at a time, just until combined.
Add vanilla, spices, salt, and sour cream; blend until smooth (don’t overmix).
4. Bake the Bars
Pour cheesecake mixture over cooled crust and spread evenly.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
Turn off oven, crack door open, and let sit for 15 minutes.
Remove, cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours (overnight is best).
5. Cut & Decorate
Lift the chilled cheesecake out using parchment overhang.
Slice into squares using a clean, sharp knife (wipe between cuts).
Top with whipped cream, cookie crumbs, or mini gingerbread men.
Notes
These Christmas Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars bring together the cozy warmth of gingerbread and the creamy richness of cheesecake. For a festive finish, top them with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or crushed ginger snaps before serving!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
Keywords: Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, Holiday Gingerbread Bars, Festive Cheesecake Bars, Gingerbread Dessert Bars, Christmas Dessert Bars