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As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of gingerbread wafts through homes, evoking memories of festive gatherings, cozy family traditions, and the warmth of shared desserts. Gingerbread and cheesecake are two beloved flavors that embody the spirit of celebration, making them perfect for any holiday table. This year, why not elevate your dessert offerings with a delightful twist? Introducing Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars—a decadent combination that captures the essence of both flavors in a convenient, shareable form.

Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars – Holiday Dessert

This simple pie recipe brings together the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread and the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, making it a family-friendly dessert that everyone will love. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these bars are a delightful treat that combines nostalgia and sweetness in each bite. Enjoy this festive twist on a classic with your loved ones and make lasting memories at the table this season. GingerbreadCheesecake FamilyFriendlyDessert HolidayBaking DessertRecipe FestiveFlavors Afterka BakingWithKids
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Ingredients
  

For the Gingerbread Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

⅓ cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon molasses

1 pinch salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

Whipped cream (for serving)

Ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Crushed gingerbread cookies (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Make the Gingerbread Crust:

      - In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, melted butter, molasses, and a pinch of salt. Mix until combined and crumbly.

        - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

          Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

            - In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.

              - Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, sour cream, and heavy cream until the mixture is well combined and smooth.

                Assemble the Bars:

                  - Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked gingerbread crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

                    Bake the Cheesecake Bars:

                      - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the bars cool in the oven for 1 hour.

                        Chill and Serve:

                          - After cooling, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set completely. Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang, cut them into squares, and serve topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and crushed gingerbread cookies if desired.

                            Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 5 hours | Servings: 16