Gingerbread Cheesecake

Gingerbread Cheesecake

Rich, creamy, and warmly spiced, this Gingerbread Cheesecake combines classic cheesecake smoothness with the cozy flavors of gingerbread—perfect for holidays or any time you want a comforting dessert.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Bake Time: 55–65 minutes

Cooling + Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Servings: 10–12 slices

Ingredients

Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup sour cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the brown sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition.
4. Add molasses and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
5. Stir in ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
6. Gently fold in the sour cream until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
2. Place the pan on the center rack of the oven.
3. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.

4. Cool and Chill

1. Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
2. Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of cinnamon.
• Garnish with crushed gingerbread cookies for extra holiday flair.