Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

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Are you looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season while being easy to make? Gingerbread cheesecake bars might just be the answer! These delightful treats combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the warm spices of gingerbread, creating a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Did you know that 75% of people prefer desserts that evoke nostalgia during the holidays? This makes gingerbread cheesecake bars not just a treat, but a trip down memory lane. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients List

To make your gingerbread cheesecake bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Gingerbread Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed gingersnap cookies for extra flavor)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)

Optional Toppings:

  • Whipped cream
  • Crushed gingersnap cookies
  • Caramel sauce

These ingredients can be easily substituted based on dietary preferences, such as using gluten-free graham crackers or dairy-free cream cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and sour cream until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  3. Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

  1. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Cut into squares and serve with your choice of toppings.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 12 servings):

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 4g

These bars provide a delightful treat while still being manageable in terms of calories, making them a perfect indulgence during the festive season.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your gingerbread cheesecake bars a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

  • Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of regular cream cheese.
  • Substitute honey or maple syrup for granulated sugar to reduce refined sugar intake.
  • Incorporate oat flour instead of graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free option.

These modifications can help maintain the rich flavor while enhancing the nutritional profile of the dessert.

Serving Suggestions

These gingerbread cheesecake bars are versatile and can be served in various ways:

  • Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic touch.
  • Drizzle with caramel sauce for a decadent finish.
  • Serve with a side of fresh fruit, such as cranberries or sliced pears, to balance the sweetness.

Feel free to get creative with your presentation to make the dessert even more appealing!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making gingerbread cheesecake bars, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

  1. Overmixing the cheesecake batter: This can lead to cracks in the surface. Mix just until combined.
  2. Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks.
  3. Not chilling long enough: Chilling overnight enhances the flavors and improves the texture.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll ensure a beautifully set and delicious dessert.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your gingerbread cheesecake bars fresh:

  • Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

These tips will help maintain the flavor and texture, ensuring your dessert remains delightful even days later.

Conclusion

In summary, gingerbread cheesecake bars are a festive, easy-to-make dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and gingerbread flavors. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a treat that’s both nostalgic and delicious. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delightful recipes and updates!

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.

3. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The cheesecake should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Gingerbread Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed gingersnap cookies for extra flavor)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Whipped cream
  • Crushed gingersnap cookies
  • Caramel sauce

Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish to form an even layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and sour cream until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  3. Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

  1. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Cut into squares and serve with your choice of toppings.
© Lily Cooking