Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re craving a sweet treat that combines warm spices and creamy indulgence, these Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are your next must-try. Blending the festive flavors of gingerbread with the smooth richness of cheesecake, this recipe offers a unique dessert experience that’s both soft and full of texture. Easy to bake and irresistibly delicious, Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies bring the best of both worlds right to your kitchen, perfect for sharing or savoring with a cup of your favorite holiday beverage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Fusion: Enjoy the inviting spice of gingerbread harmoniously balanced with luscious cheesecake filling.
• Easy to Bake: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each cookie has a tender crumb alongside a creamy center that melts in your mouth.
• Great for Holidays: These cookies add a festive, cozy touch to any celebration or gift basket.
• Customizable: Adapt with your favorite mix-ins or toppings to suit any taste preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of easy-to-find, quality ingredients is all it takes to create these scrumptious Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies. Each component plays a special role in delivering that perfect flavor, texture, and golden color you’ll love biting into.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base for a soft yet chewy cookie dough.
• Ground ginger and cinnamon: Classic spices that bring the authentic gingerbread warmth.
• Brown sugar: Adds rich sweetness and moisture to the dough.
• Unsalted butter: Gives a creamy, tender crumb without overpowering other flavors.
• Cream cheese: The star ingredient for a smooth cheesecake swirl in each cookie.
• Molasses: Enhances the deep, dark flavor and adds moisture, creating that true gingerbread essence.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients while adding softness and structure.
• Baking soda and salt: Help the cookies rise perfectly and balance sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Elevates overall flavor with a sweet, mellow note.

Variations for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Feel free to make this recipe your own by trying out fun variations. Whether you want to add texture, adjust sweetness, or accommodate dietary needs, these ideas make it easy to customize these favorite Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies.

• Chocolate chips: Fold in dark or semi-sweet chips for a melty, decadent twist.
• Nut toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and warmth.
• Gluten-free option: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend without losing texture.
• Spice boost: Add cloves or nutmeg for extra aromatic depth.
• Vegan version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes along with a flax egg to keep the richness intact.

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the cheesecake filling

Start by mixing softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. This filling will create the luscious center that contrasts beautifully with the spicy cookie exterior.

Step 2: Make the gingerbread cookie dough

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Then, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy, adding eggs and molasses gradually. Slowly blend the dry ingredients to form a soft dough infused with that signature gingerbread flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the cookies

Take a scoop of cookie dough and flatten it slightly. Add a dollop of cheesecake filling in the center and top with another scoop of dough, sealing the edges gently but thoroughly to encase the cheesecake.

Step 4: Bake to perfection

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, until the tops are set but still soft. Remove and allow to cool before enjoying the delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

• Chill the dough: Refrigerate assembled cookies for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading during baking.
• Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
• Don’t overmix dough: Blend ingredients just until combined to keep cookies tender.
• Watch baking time: Cookies continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to maintain creamy centers.
• Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate can add an elegant touch and a hint of extra sweetness to these cookies.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of chai tea, hot cocoa, or freshly brewed coffee to complement their spicy, creamy profile perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or cinnamon sticks for holiday gatherings, or pack them in decorative tins as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and softness.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to baking time.

Reheating

Warm cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to enjoy a freshly baked feel with gooey cheesecake centers.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but expect a slightly less rich and creamy texture in the cheesecake filling.

Are Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies suitable for freezing after baking?

Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to completely encase the cheesecake filling by sealing dough edges carefully, and chill assembled cookies before baking to keep them intact.

Can I make these cookies without molasses?

While molasses contributes authentic gingerbread flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with dark corn syrup or honey, though the taste will be slightly different.

What type of cream cheese works best for this recipe?

A full-fat, block-style cream cheese yields the best creamy texture and flavor for the filling, though alternatives can work with minor adjustments.

Final Thoughts

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful blend of cozy spices and creamy sweetness that everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cozy night at home, or just because, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. So grab your ingredients and start baking – these cookies are too good to wait!

Related Posts

• Christmas Brownies with Chocolate Frosting
• Black Forest Trifle
• Soft Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies

Print