These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm spices of gingerbread. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these bars are easy to prepare and even easier to share. Their delightful flavors and festive appearance make them a standout dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional cheesecakes, these bars are simple to make and require less baking time.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The fusion of spiced gingerbread with creamy cheesecake creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for holidays, parties, or as a sweet treat after dinner; they fit any celebration!
• Decorative Touch: Top with cute gingerbread men for a charming finish that enhances their festive appeal.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: Ideal size for creating perfect bars that can be easily cut and served.
• Electric mixer: Makes mixing cream cheese and other ingredients smooth and effortless, ensuring a creamy texture.
• Rubber spatula: Great for folding ingredients together without deflating the mixture, maintaining its fluffiness.

this recipe

Ingredients

To make these delicious Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Gingerbread Base

• 1 cup (2 sticks; 220g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup (170g) unsulphured molasses
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups (281g) all purpose flour (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 4 (8-ounce) packages full fat block cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup (114g) sour cream (room temperature)
• 6 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Gingerbread Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar until fluffy.
2. Add in the molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Spread this mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Gingerbread Base

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until set but not overcooked. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add in light brown sugar, sour cream, eggs one at a time, vanilla bean paste or extract, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake Again

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled gingerbread base in the baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for another 30-40 minutes or until set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight. Cut into bars and enjoy!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat, perfect for sharing during the festive season. Here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your family and friends.

Individual Portions

• Serve each bar cut into squares for easy handling, allowing guests to enjoy them without needing utensils.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top of each bar. This adds a light and airy texture that complements the rich cheesecake.

Garnished with Gingerbread Men

• Decorate each cheesecake bar with mini gingerbread men for a fun and festive touch. This decoration is both adorable and delicious!

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavors by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the bars. The sweet and buttery taste pairs beautifully with the spiced gingerbread.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair these bars with slices of fresh fruit like oranges or apples. The freshness balances the richness of the cheesecake perfectly.

Accompanied by Hot Beverages

• Serve your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars alongside hot chocolate or spiced tea to create a cozy dessert experience.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

To ensure your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and prevents lumps.

• Don’t overmix: Mix your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air into the batter, leading to cracks during baking.

• Line your pan: Use parchment paper to line your baking dish. This makes it easier to lift out the bars once they’ve cooled, ensuring clean cuts.

• Cool completely before slicing: Allow your bars to cool in the refrigerator for several hours. Chilling helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the gingerbread layer according to your taste. More cinnamon or ginger can enhance flavor depth!

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm drink infused with cinnamon and cloves that complements the ginger flavors beautifully.

2. Cranberry Sauce
   A tart cranberry sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake bars, making each bite enjoyable.

3. Pumpkin Soup
   A creamy pumpkin soup warms up your palate before indulging in dessert, creating a cozy balance between sweet and savory.

4. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy desserts like cheesecake bars.

5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses provides a savory option that pairs well with sweet treats and balances flavors on your table.

6. Chocolate Truffles
   Rich chocolate truffles provide an indulgent treat, perfect for those who crave an extra chocolate hit alongside their dessert.

7. Roasted Nuts
   Savory roasted nuts add a crunchy texture that complements the soft cheesecake bars while enhancing their festive appeal.

8. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Serve vanilla ice cream as an accompaniment for an extra creamy element that pairs wonderfully with spiced desserts like these bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with dessert recipes. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars.

• Not softening cream cheese: Using cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy cheesecake filling. Make sure to let it sit at room temperature for at least an hour before mixing.

• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in cracks on your cheesecake surface. Mix until just combined for a smooth texture.

• Skipping the cooling step: Removing the bars from the oven too early can cause them to collapse. Allow them to cool in the oven with the door ajar to prevent sudden temperature changes.

• Using outdated spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor. Make sure your ground ginger and cinnamon are fresh for the best results in your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars.

• Not greasing the pan properly: Failing to grease or line your baking pan can make it difficult to remove the bars later. Use parchment paper or cooking spray for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• For optimal taste, enjoy them within 2-3 days.

Freezing Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars.

Can I use gluten-free flour for Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour without affecting the recipe’s integrity.

How do I know when my Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are done?

The edges should be set while the center may still slightly jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I customize the toppings on my Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! You can add whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or even festive sprinkles for extra flair.

What’s the best way to serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars?

Serve chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside gingerbread cookies for a delightful presentation.

Final Thoughts

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also easy to share during festive gatherings. Their creamy texture paired with a spiced crust makes them a holiday favorite. Feel free to customize these bars by adding toppings or adjusting spices according to your taste!

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Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert, blending the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, inviting spices of gingerbread. These delightful bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during cozy nights in.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (2 sticks; 220g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup (170g) unsulphured molasses
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups (281g) all purpose flour (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 (8-ounce) packages full fat block cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup (114g) sour cream (room temperature)
• 6 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. For the gingerbread base, cream together softened butter and light brown sugar; mix in molasses, eggs, and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients and fold into wet mixture. Spread in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes until set; let cool slightly.
4. For the cheesecake layer, blend softened cream cheese and sugars until smooth. Add sour cream, eggs one at a time, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled gingerbread base and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes until edges are set.
6. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours; slice into bars to serve.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 284
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 225mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 88mg

Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Customize spices according to taste for a more personalized flavor profile. Top with whipped cream or mini gingerbread men for added flair.