Print

Cozy Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars: Best Easy Holiday Dessert

gingerbread cheesecake bars - featured image
Print Recipe

These creamy, spicy gingerbread cheesecake bars are the perfect easy holiday dessert. With a crunchy gingersnap crust, silky cheesecake filling, and tangy cream cheese frosting, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat that comes together in about 30 minutes of active prep time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) gingersnap cookie crumbs (about 30 cookies, crushed finely)
  • 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses (not blackstrap)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • Crushed gingersnap cookies for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
  • Candied ginger, finely chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two opposite sides. Lightly grease the parchment.
  2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine gingersnap crumbs, melted butter, sugar (if using), and salt. Stir until mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when squeezed.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to get it even and compact. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.
  5. Add sugar and beat for another minute until fully incorporated. Add molasses, vanilla extract, and all spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt). Beat on low speed until combined.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low after each addition just until the yolk disappears. Do not overmix.
  7. Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust. Spread evenly to the edges. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release air bubbles.
  8. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 35-40 minutes. The edges should look set and slightly puffed, but the center should still jiggle slightly when gently shaken.
  9. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the bars cool inside for 30 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
  10. Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating on low speed. Add vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of milk or cream. Beat on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until light and spreadable. Add more milk if needed.
  11. Once bars are completely cool, spread frosting evenly over the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  12. When ready to serve, use parchment handles to lift bars out of the pan. Slice into 16 squares. Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Room temperature ingredients are essential for a smooth filling. Do not overmix the batter once eggs are added. The jiggle test is key: center should wobble like Jell-O when done. Chill at least 4 hours (overnight is best) for clean slices. Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread cheesecake bars, holiday dessert, easy cheesecake bars, gingerbread dessert, cream cheese bars, Christmas dessert, Thanksgiving dessert

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/cozy-gingerbread-cheesecake-bars-best-easy-holiday-dessert/