Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and spiced gingerbread cookie crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these bars are easy to make and even easier to share. Their rich flavors and festive appearance make them a standout dessert, whether you’re celebrating with family or bringing treats to a party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Unlike a traditional cheesecake, these bars save you time in both prep and baking.
• Deliciously Decadent: The creamy cheesecake pairs perfectly with the spiced gingerbread base for a flavor explosion.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares and serve at parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings for easy sharing.
• Versatile Decoration: Top them with little gingerbread men or other festive toppings to match your celebration theme.
• Adaptable Ingredients: Gluten-free options are available, making this treat suitable for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the process.

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: This size is perfect for evenly baking your bars, ensuring they cook thoroughly without burning.
• Electric mixer: A powerful tool that makes it easy to whip cream cheese into a smooth consistency without lumps.

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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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Gingerbread Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and light brown sugar until creamy.
2. Add unsulphured molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.
3. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Gingerbread Base

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until set but not fully baked through.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add granulated sugar and light brown sugar while continuing to mix.
3. Incorporate sour cream, eggs one at a time, vanilla bean paste or extract, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake Again

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the partially baked gingerbread base in the pan. Smooth out evenly with a rubber spatula.
Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for at least four hours. Once chilled, cut into squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Gingerbread cheesecake bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these bars can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion.

Individual Portions

• Serve each bar on a small plate for an elegant touch.
• Use festive cupcake liners to present them as mini desserts.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
• Sprinkle some ground ginger or cinnamon for added flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair with slices of fresh pear or apple for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer a side of berries like raspberries or strawberries for vibrant color.

Garnished with Gingerbread Cookies

• Top each bar with small gingerbread men for fun decoration.
• Create a festive look by placing crumbled gingerbread cookies around the bars.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add warmth and sweetness by drizzling caramel on top.
• Consider using a homemade caramel sauce for an extra special touch.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

To achieve the best gingerbread cheesecake bars, follow these expert tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks.
• Chill before serving: Allow the bars to cool completely in the fridge for at least 4 hours, enhancing their texture and flavors.
• Line your baking pan: Use parchment paper to easily remove the bars from the pan without sticking.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Check towards the end of the suggested cooking time; they should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Pairing your gingerbread cheesecake bars with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Spiced Hot Cocoa
   A warm cup of rich hot cocoa flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg complements the spiced notes of the bars.

2. Cranberry Sauce
   A tart cranberry sauce adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cheesecake.

3. Candied Nuts
   Sweet and crunchy candied nuts provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with creamy cheesecake.

4. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup enhances the seasonal flavors and creates a cozy pairing.

5. Apple Crisp
   The warm, sweet, and slightly tart apple crisp offers another comforting dessert option alongside the cheesecake bars.

6. Ginger Tea
   A soothing cup of ginger tea can enhance all those wonderful spices found in your dessert.

7. Cheese Platter
   Offer a variety of cheeses, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie, that provide savory contrast to sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients – Using cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to a lumpy batter. Make sure all dairy and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
• Overmixing the cheesecake layer – This can incorporate too much air, causing cracks. Mix just until smooth and combined to maintain a perfect texture.
• Not chilling the bars long enough – Cutting into warm cheesecake bars makes them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely in the refrigerator for optimal texture.
• Using inaccurate measurements – Baking is an exact science. Always measure your ingredients carefully, especially flour and sugar, for best results.
• Neglecting to line the baking pan – Skipping this step can lead to messy removal. Use parchment paper to ensure easy lifting and cutting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Reheating Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat bars for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on medium power for 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop – Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars.

Can I make Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made up to two days in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator until serving.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You may substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor while keeping it creamy.

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

The edges should be set while the center may still look slightly jiggly. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add toppings to my Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! Consider whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or even festive spices like nutmeg for decoration.

Final Thoughts

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful combination of rich cheesecake and spiced gingerbread flavors, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. Feel free to customize your bars with different toppings or serve them alongside fresh fruit for added freshness. Enjoy baking these delicious treats!