These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake and spiced gingerbread, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or cozy nights in. Their rich flavors and charming presentation make them a standout dessert that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These bars are simpler than a traditional cheesecake, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert quickly.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares for easy serving; they’re great for parties and gatherings.
• Festive Flavors: The combination of gingerbread spices and creamy cheesecake captures the essence of the holiday season perfectly.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to decorate with mini gingerbread men or your favorite festive sprinkles for an extra touch!
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any winter celebration.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when blending ingredients smoothly.
• Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking, giving you perfect bars every time.

this recipe

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: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Gingerbread Base

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter and light brown sugar. Mix until creamy. Add molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract; blend well. In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined. Spread this gingerbread batter evenly in your prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Gingerbread Base

Bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until just set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth. Mix in sour cream until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in vanilla bean paste or extract, lemon juice, and salt.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake Again

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled gingerbread base. Smooth out with a spatula. Bake for another 30-40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight. When ready to serve, lift out of the pan using parchment overhang and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Serving Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars can elevate any gathering, especially during the holiday season. These bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect dessert for sharing.

Individual Portions

• You can cut the bars into small squares for easy serving at parties.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch, balancing the rich flavors of the cheesecake.

Garnished with Gingerbread Men

• Decorate each bar with tiny gingerbread men for a festive look. This adds charm and fun to your dessert presentation.

Accompanied by Hot Beverages

• Serve these bars alongside hot cocoa or spiced cider for a cozy treat that warms the heart.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the bars on a beautiful platter with other seasonal treats for an inviting dessert spread.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the perfect Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars requires attention to detail in both preparation and baking. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert comes out wonderfully.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can affect the texture.

• Check Doneness Carefully: Bake until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to a dry cheesecake.

• Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool in the oven with the door ajar after baking. This helps prevent cracks on the surface.

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the bars for several hours or overnight. Chilling enhances their flavor and makes them easier to cut.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars can create a delightful dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm drink infused with spices that complements the gingerbread flavors perfectly.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.

3. Chocolate Fondue
   Offer melted chocolate for dipping fruits or pieces of gingerbread, adding an indulgent twist.

4. Pumpkin Soup
   A creamy pumpkin soup serves as a savory counterpart that balances sweetness well.

5. Roasted Nuts
   Seasoned nuts add crunch and depth, making for an ideal snack alongside your dessert.

6. Cheese Board
   Include a selection of cheeses that pair well with sweet desserts; this adds variety and sophistication to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making something as delightful as Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, creamy filling.
• Not measuring correctly: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy to avoid altering the texture of your bars.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light cheesecake layer.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool properly helps them set and enhances their flavors. Patience is key!
• Not lining the baking pan: Use parchment paper or grease the pan. This ensures easy removal and keeps your bars intact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store extras in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• For best flavor, consume within 3 days.

Freezing Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on low power for 15-20 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place a bar on a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars that may help you out.

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

The bars should be slightly jiggly in the center but firm around the edges. They will continue to set as they cool.

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

Yes! You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend without affecting the taste or texture significantly.

What toppings go well with Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars?

Consider adding whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture and flavor.

How long do Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars last in the fridge?

They will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored correctly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with different spices or toppings according to your preferences. Perfect for sharing during holidays, they bring joy and warmth to any gathering. Give them a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 bars 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive delight of these Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, where creamy cheesecake meets a spiced gingerbread base, creating a perfect treat for holiday gatherings and cozy nights at home. These bars are not only easy to make but are also visually appealing, making them an ideal dessert for sharing. With their rich flavors and charming presentation, they’re sure to be a hit during Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any winter celebration. Customize with your favorite toppings like mini gingerbread men or colorful sprinkles to add an extra festive touch!

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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
• 1/2 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 the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Add molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk flour and spices together before gradually adding to the wet mixture until combined. Spread evenly in the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until set; let cool slightly.
5. For the cheesecake layer, blend cream cheese with sugars until smooth, then mix in sour cream followed by eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon juice.
6. Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled gingerbread base and bake for another 30-40 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours or overnight.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (85g)
• Calories: 298
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 232mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better texture. Avoid overmixing when combining ingredients to prevent a dense cheesecake layer. Chill the bars properly before serving to enhance flavor and ease of cutting.