Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars Delightfully Rich Treat

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Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that’s both warm and rich? These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars mix the classic flavors of gingerbread with creamy cheesecake for a treat you won’t forget. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the magic of gingerbread and discover how to make these bars shine!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Festive Flavor: These gingerbread cheesecake bars perfectly capture the essence of the holiday season with warm spices and creamy goodness.
  2. Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can create these delicious treats without any hassle.
  3. Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these bars are ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet gift for friends and family.
  4. Charming Presentation: With a simple dusting of powdered sugar or caramel drizzle, these bars look as delightful as they taste!

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

– 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 2 large eggs, at room temperature

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/4 cup sour cream

– 1/4 cup molasses

– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

These ingredients create a tasty blend. The graham cracker crumbs form the crust. Brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. The spices—ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice—give that cozy holiday vibe. Cream cheese provides the creamy filling, while eggs help it set. Molasses adds a rich flavor that makes each bite delightful.

Substitutions

Alternative sweeteners: You can use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.

Dairy-free options: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt to replace regular dairy.

Gluten-free substitutes: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or crushed nuts.

These substitutions let everyone enjoy the bars. Adjusting these ingredients can make the recipe fit your needs.

Recommended Brands

Top brands for cream cheese: Look for Philadelphia or Kite Hill for vegan options.

Best graham cracker brands: Honey Maid and Schar offer great flavor and texture.

Using quality brands makes a big difference. They ensure the best taste and texture in your bars.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Crust

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the bars bake evenly.

2. In a bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.

3. Pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir until it looks like wet sand.

4. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch pan. This forms a solid crust.

5. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly on a wire rack.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.

2. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. This ensures a rich texture.

3. Next, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 cup of sour cream, 1/4 cup of molasses, 1 tablespoon of flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice. Mix until smooth.

Baking and Cooling

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

2. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The edges should set while the center jiggles slightly.

3. Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. For the best taste, chill them in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Once chilled, lift the bars using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares with a sharp knife.

5. Serve with powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel for extra sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Using room temperature ingredients is key. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps. Take the cream cheese and eggs out ahead of time. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This simple step helps create a smooth batter. When mixing, beat the cream cheese and sugar well. Use medium speed on your mixer. Scrape the bowl often to avoid lumps.

Baking Tips

To avoid overbaking, watch the edges of your bars. They should be set, while the center has a slight jiggle. This means it’s done! Place your pan on the middle rack in the oven. This helps with even baking and heat distribution.

Presentation Tips

For garnishing, dust the bars with powdered sugar. Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Arrange the bars on a festive platter. You can also sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies on top. This adds texture and looks great for holiday parties. Serve them chilled for the best taste!

Pro Tips

  1. Chill Before Cutting: For clean and neat slices, make sure to chill the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours or overnight before cutting.
  2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy batter.
  3. Garnish Creatively: Consider adding festive touches like crushed gingerbread cookies or whipped cream to elevate the presentation and flavor.
  4. Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cheesecake while it bakes; the edges should be set but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can change the flavors in gingerbread cheesecake bars for fun. For a twist, try pumpkin spice cheesecake bars. Just add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the filling. This makes a creamy dessert that is perfect for fall.

Another option is chocolate gingerbread cheesecake. Mix in melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the batter. This creates a rich and decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.

Dietary Modifications

If you need vegan options, you can make vegan gingerbread cheesecake bars. Use vegan cream cheese and replace eggs with flax eggs. This way, everyone can enjoy this sweet delight.

For those on a low-carb diet, try keto-friendly options. Use almond flour in the crust and a sugar substitute in the filling. You will still enjoy all the great flavors without the carbs.

Seasonal Additions

Seasonal toppings can bring new life to your bars. Adding nuts or dried fruits like walnuts or cranberries can add a nice crunch and flavor boost. This can make your bars even more festive.

You might also want to incorporate citrus flavors. A little lemon or orange zest can brighten the taste. This adds a fresh twist that pairs well with the warm spices in the bars.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

For best results, store your gingerbread cheesecake bars in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can also cover them tightly with plastic wrap. If you want to freeze them, cut the bars into squares first. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in foil. This will help keep the flavor and texture.

Shelf Life

These bars last up to five days in the fridge. Place them in the coldest part of your fridge. If you freeze them, they can last up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage like a change in color or smell. If they seem dry or have an off odor, it’s best to toss them.

Reheating Recommendations

To reheat, place the bars in a microwave-safe dish. Heat them for about 15 to 20 seconds. Keep an eye on them to avoid overheating. You can also warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. After thawing, serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. Dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel for a tasty treat.

FAQs

Can I make gingerbread cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make gingerbread cheesecake bars ahead of time. They taste better after chilling. I suggest making them one day before serving. Just store them in the fridge. This will help the flavors blend nicely.

How to tell when gingerbread cheesecake bars are done?

To check if the bars are done, look at the edges. They should be set and firm. The center may jiggle a bit, but that is okay. It will firm up as it cools. Use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean when they are ready.

Can I use a different size pan for the recipe?

You can use a different size pan, but the baking time may change. A larger pan will make the bars thinner and bake faster. A smaller pan will make them thicker and take longer to bake. Adjust the time based on the pan size.

What can I substitute for molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup. Both will add sweetness and some flavor. You can also mix brown sugar with a bit of water for a quick substitute. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly.

How do I enhance the gingerbread flavor?

To boost the gingerbread flavor, add more ground ginger or cinnamon. You can also mix in some fresh ginger for a spicy kick. Pairing with warm spices like cloves or nutmeg can help too. A hint of vanilla also adds depth to the flavor.

This blog post covered all you need to make delicious gingerbread cheesecake bars. We explored key ingredients, easy steps for baking, and tips for perfect texture and presentation. You found substitutions and variations for dietary needs too.

Making these bars can be fun and rewarding. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors or mix-ins. With the right approach, you will impress everyone with your treats. Happy bakin

- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - 1/3 cup packed brown sugar - 1 teaspoon ground ginger - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 cup sour cream - 1/4 cup molasses - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice These ingredients create a tasty blend. The graham cracker crumbs form the crust. Brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. The spices—ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice—give that cozy holiday vibe. Cream cheese provides the creamy filling, while eggs help it set. Molasses adds a rich flavor that makes each bite delightful. - Alternative sweeteners: You can use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. - Dairy-free options: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt to replace regular dairy. - Gluten-free substitutes: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or crushed nuts. These substitutions let everyone enjoy the bars. Adjusting these ingredients can make the recipe fit your needs. - Top brands for cream cheese: Look for Philadelphia or Kite Hill for vegan options. - Best graham cracker brands: Honey Maid and Schar offer great flavor and texture. Using quality brands makes a big difference. They ensure the best taste and texture in your bars. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the bars bake evenly. 2. In a bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. 3. Pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir until it looks like wet sand. 4. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch pan. This forms a solid crust. 5. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly on a wire rack. 1. In a large bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy. 2. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. This ensures a rich texture. 3. Next, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 cup of sour cream, 1/4 cup of molasses, 1 tablespoon of flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground allspice. Mix until smooth. 1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. 2. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The edges should set while the center jiggles slightly. 3. Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. For the best taste, chill them in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. 4. Once chilled, lift the bars using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares with a sharp knife. 5. Serve with powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel for extra sweetness. Using room temperature ingredients is key. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps. Take the cream cheese and eggs out ahead of time. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This simple step helps create a smooth batter. When mixing, beat the cream cheese and sugar well. Use medium speed on your mixer. Scrape the bowl often to avoid lumps. To avoid overbaking, watch the edges of your bars. They should be set, while the center has a slight jiggle. This means it's done! Place your pan on the middle rack in the oven. This helps with even baking and heat distribution. For garnishing, dust the bars with powdered sugar. Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Arrange the bars on a festive platter. You can also sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies on top. This adds texture and looks great for holiday parties. Serve them chilled for the best taste! Pro Tips Chill Before Cutting: For clean and neat slices, make sure to chill the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours or overnight before cutting. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy batter. Garnish Creatively: Consider adding festive touches like crushed gingerbread cookies or whipped cream to elevate the presentation and flavor. Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cheesecake while it bakes; the edges should be set but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out. {{image_4}} You can change the flavors in gingerbread cheesecake bars for fun. For a twist, try pumpkin spice cheesecake bars. Just add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the filling. This makes a creamy dessert that is perfect for fall. Another option is chocolate gingerbread cheesecake. Mix in melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the batter. This creates a rich and decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore. If you need vegan options, you can make vegan gingerbread cheesecake bars. Use vegan cream cheese and replace eggs with flax eggs. This way, everyone can enjoy this sweet delight. For those on a low-carb diet, try keto-friendly options. Use almond flour in the crust and a sugar substitute in the filling. You will still enjoy all the great flavors without the carbs. Seasonal toppings can bring new life to your bars. Adding nuts or dried fruits like walnuts or cranberries can add a nice crunch and flavor boost. This can make your bars even more festive. You might also want to incorporate citrus flavors. A little lemon or orange zest can brighten the taste. This adds a fresh twist that pairs well with the warm spices in the bars. For best results, store your gingerbread cheesecake bars in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can also cover them tightly with plastic wrap. If you want to freeze them, cut the bars into squares first. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in foil. This will help keep the flavor and texture. These bars last up to five days in the fridge. Place them in the coldest part of your fridge. If you freeze them, they can last up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage like a change in color or smell. If they seem dry or have an off odor, it’s best to toss them. To reheat, place the bars in a microwave-safe dish. Heat them for about 15 to 20 seconds. Keep an eye on them to avoid overheating. You can also warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. After thawing, serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. Dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel for a tasty treat. Yes, you can make gingerbread cheesecake bars ahead of time. They taste better after chilling. I suggest making them one day before serving. Just store them in the fridge. This will help the flavors blend nicely. To check if the bars are done, look at the edges. They should be set and firm. The center may jiggle a bit, but that is okay. It will firm up as it cools. Use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean when they are ready. You can use a different size pan, but the baking time may change. A larger pan will make the bars thinner and bake faster. A smaller pan will make them thicker and take longer to bake. Adjust the time based on the pan size. If you don't have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup. Both will add sweetness and some flavor. You can also mix brown sugar with a bit of water for a quick substitute. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly. To boost the gingerbread flavor, add more ground ginger or cinnamon. You can also mix in some fresh ginger for a spicy kick. Pairing with warm spices like cloves or nutmeg can help too. A hint of vanilla also adds depth to the flavor. This blog post covered all you need to make delicious gingerbread cheesecake bars. We explored key ingredients, easy steps for baking, and tips for perfect texture and presentation. You found substitutions and variations for dietary needs too. Making these bars can be fun and rewarding. Don't hesitate to try different flavors or mix-ins. With the right approach, you will impress everyone with your treats. Happy baking!

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Deliciously spiced cheesecake bars with a gingerbread crust, perfect for the holiday season.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1.0 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1.0 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1.0 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 16.0 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1.0 cup granulated sugar
  • 2.0 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1.0 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 0.25 cup molasses
  • 1.0 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground allspice

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly and lining with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhanging edges for easy extraction later.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Carefully pour in the melted unsalted butter and stir until the mixture achieves a texture similar to wet sand.
  • Press this crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a solid crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack.
  • In a separate, large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
  • Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully blended. Then add the vanilla extract, sour cream, molasses, flour, and ground allspice, mixing until all ingredients are evenly combined and the batter is smooth.
  • Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, keeping an eye on the edges which should be set while the center will have a slight jiggle—it will firm up as it cools.
  • Once baked, remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. For the best texture, refrigerate them for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  • After chilling, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang, and use a sharp knife to carefully cut them into square servings.
  • Serve the bars dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with rich caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness, if desired.

Notes

Arrange the bars on a festive serving platter and consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture and a delightful holiday flair!
Keyword bars, cheesecake, dessert, gingerbread, holiday

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