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Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

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A decadent holiday dessert that bridges the gap between a sturdy cookie and a luxurious cheesecake. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy, spiced cream cheese filling that is easy to make and perfect for festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons molasses (blackstrap or unsulphured)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
  • Candied ginger, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and grease lightly.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  5. Add sour cream, 3/4 cup sugar, molasses, vanilla, cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ginger, cloves, and salt. Beat until combined and smooth.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
  7. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.
  9. Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour.
  10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until firm.
  11. Slice into squares using a sharp knife. Serve chilled with whipped cream and candied ginger if desired.

Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients (cream cheese, eggs, sour cream) are at room temperature before starting to prevent lumps. Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs to avoid cracking. The bars improve in flavor after chilling overnight. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread cheesecake, holiday dessert, cream cheese bars, easy dessert, gingerbread recipe, christmas baking, graham cracker crust

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/creamy-gingerbread-cheesecake-bars-6-easy-holiday-dessert-ideas/