Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake Recipe: A Spicy Holiday Treat

When the holidays arrive, kitchens fill with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses. Few desserts capture that nostalgic warmth quite like this Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake. Rich, velvety, and perfectly spiced, this gingerbread cheesecake recipe blends classic holiday flavors with the luxurious texture of traditional cheesecake.

If you’re searching for a holiday cheesecake dessert that feels festive, elegant, and unforgettable, this spiced holiday cheesecake delivers on every level. Whether served at Christmas dinner, Thanksgiving gatherings, or a cozy winter celebration, this dessert will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Cheesecake Recipe

This creamy gingerbread cheesecake isn’t just another holiday dessert. It’s:

• Smooth and ultra-creamy with a silky texture
• Infused with real molasses and warm spices
• Perfectly balanced — not too sweet, not too spicy
• Ideal for make-ahead holiday entertaining
• Elegant enough for special occasions

The rich molasses pairs beautifully with ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating that unmistakable gingerbread flavor. Meanwhile, the cheesecake base remains luxuriously creamy and slightly tangy, balancing the warmth of the spices.

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What Makes Gingerbread Cheesecake Perfect for the Holidays?

Traditional gingerbread is deeply rooted in winter celebrations. Its bold spices and dark sweetness evoke comfort and nostalgia. When transformed into a creamy cheesecake, those flavors become even more indulgent.

This Christmas cheesecake recipe works beautifully for:

• Holiday dinner parties
• Family gatherings
• Potlucks
• Office celebrations
• Winter birthdays

The combination of spiced crust and creamy filling makes it stand out among standard cheesecakes.

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Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Crust

• 2 cups crushed gingersnap cookies
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake Filling

• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup molasses
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Optional Toppings

• Whipped cream
• Caramel drizzle
• Crushed gingersnaps
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent water from leaking in during the water bath.

2. Make the Gingerbread Crust

In a medium bowl, combine crushed gingersnap cookies, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.

3. Beat the Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure no lumps remain.

4. Add Sugar and Molasses

Mix in the brown sugar and molasses. Beat until fully incorporated and silky smooth.

5. Incorporate the Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause cracks.

6. Add Remaining Ingredients

Blend in sour cream, vanilla extract, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and flour. Mix just until combined.

7. Assemble for Baking

Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.

8. Bake the Cheesecake

Bake for 60–70 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly but mostly set.

9. Cool Gradually

Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.

10. Chill

Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

11. Garnish and Serve

Top with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or crushed gingersnaps before serving.

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Expert Tips for the Perfect Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Cold cream cheese can create lumps. Always let dairy and eggs come to room temperature before mixing.

Don’t Skip the Water Bath

The water bath creates gentle, even heat. This ensures a smooth texture and reduces cracking.

Avoid Overmixing

Too much air in the batter leads to cracks. Mix on low speed once eggs are added.

Chill Overnight

For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate at least 8 hours.

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Variations to Try

Chocolate Gingerbread Cheesecake

Add ½ cup melted dark chocolate to the batter for a rich twist.

Salted Caramel Gingerbread Cheesecake

Drizzle homemade salted caramel over the top before serving.

Mini Gingerbread Cheesecakes

Divide batter into lined muffin tins and bake for 20–25 minutes.

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Serving Suggestions

This holiday cheesecake dessert pairs beautifully with:

• Fresh whipped cream
• Spiced hot chocolate
• Coffee or espresso
• Mulled wine
• Vanilla ice cream

Serve chilled with a warm beverage for the ultimate winter experience.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

This Christmas cheesecake recipe is ideal for advance preparation, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.

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Nutritional Overview (Per Slice Approximate)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 28g
• Sugar: 27g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Without a Water Bath?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly less creamy and more prone to cracks.

Can I Use Graham Crackers Instead?

Yes, though gingersnaps enhance the gingerbread flavor significantly.

How Do I Prevent Cracks?

Avoid overmixing, use a water bath, and cool gradually.

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Final Thoughts

This Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake Recipe perfectly captures the warmth and spice of the holiday season. Its velvety texture, bold molasses flavor, and aromatic spices create a dessert that feels festive yet refined.

Whether you’re baking for Christmas dinner, a winter gathering, or simply to satisfy seasonal cravings, this spiced holiday cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. Once you taste the rich, creamy filling paired with the gingerbread crust, it will become a treasured tradition in your home.