Name: Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies: A Festive Treat You'll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 162 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Cream Cheese (Ensure it's cold for easy mixing and freezing.); 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar (Can use powdered sugar for a finer texture.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 tbsp Ground Ginger (Use fresh ginger for a different flavor profile.); 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon; 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg; 1/2 tsp Ground Allspice (Can be omitted.); 1/4 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Baking Soda (Not interchangeable with baking powder.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (For best results, measure properly.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Can use salted butter; reduce additional salt.); 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 2 large Egg Yolks; 1/2 cup Molasses (Can use dark corn syrup for a less intense flavor.)

The scent of freshly baked gingerbread is a cherished part of the holiday season, and these Chewy Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are here to elevate that timeless tradition. Imagine sinking your teeth into a spiced gingerbread exterior that envelops a creamy cheesecake filling, rolled in a delightful blend of aromatic spices. Not only are these cookies a festive favorite, but they’re also surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with family or treating yourself to a sweet moment, these cookies promise to bring warmth and joy to any gathering. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously spiced adventure?

What makes these cookies a holiday favorite?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spiced gingerbread and creamy cheesecake creates an unforgettable taste sensation. Festive Appeal: Perfectly suited for holiday gatherings, these cookies bring the spirit of Christmas right to your table. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will shine in the kitchen. Crowd Pleaser: They’re sure to impress friends and family alike! Serve alongside a warm beverage for a cozy touch. Plus, if you love cheesecake, you might also enjoy our Oreo Cheesecake Cookies or Sugar Free Cheesecake for festive variety.

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy filling. Note: Ensure it’s cold for easy mixing and freezing.
• Granulated Sugar (for Cheesecake Filling) – Sweetens the cheesecake mixture. Substitution: Can use powdered sugar for a finer texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor to the cheesecake. No substitutions necessary.

For the Spiced Sugar
• Granulated Sugar (for Spiced Sugar) – Sweetener for rolling the cookies.

For the Gingerbread Dough
• Ground Ginger – Offers warm spice notes essential for gingerbread flavor. Substitution: Use fresh ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds sweetness and warmth to both dough and spiced sugar.
• Ground Nutmeg – Contributes to the rich, holiday flavor.
• Ground Allspice – Enhances the aromatic spice profile. Note: It’s not mandatory; can be omitted.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise. Not interchangeable with baking powder.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure. Tip: For best results, measure properly.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the dough. Substitution: Can use salted butter; reduce additional salt.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and enhances the rich flavor.
• Egg Yolks – Add richness to the dough.
• Molasses – Essential for gingerbread flavor and moisture. Substitution: Dark corn syrup for a less intense flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Make Cheesecake Filling
Start by beating the cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is fluffy and well combined, about 2–3 minutes. Once smooth, scoop the filling into 18 small balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Cover and freeze until they are very firm, approximately 2 hours or overnight if preferred.

Step 2: Prepare Spice Sugar
In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar with the ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for the spiced sugar mix. Whisk the ingredients together until evenly blended, creating a fragrant mixture. Set this aside as it will be used later to coat the cookies, adding a festive flair to your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies.

Step 3: Make Gingerbread Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and the remaining spices until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter and light brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Add in the egg yolks and molasses, mixing until combined. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed until just combined, achieving a thick dough.

Step 4: Assemble Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop a generous portion of gingerbread dough, flatten it slightly in your hand, and place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center. Encase the cheesecake filling completely with the dough, rolling it into a smooth ball. Then roll the dough ball in the prepared spiced sugar mixture until well coated.

Step 5: Bake
Place the coated gingerbread cheesecake cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 11–12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring the creamy filling remains intact within the cookies.

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful cookies in fun ways!

Spice Swap: Try adding cardamom for a unique twist, enhancing the traditional gingerbread flavor with its fragrant notes. The result will be an aromatic cookie that’s both comforting and exciting.
Sugar Change: Replace part of the granulated sugar in the dough with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. This small adjustment makes each bite even more decadent!
Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an added crunch. The combination of chewy and nutty textures creates a delightful surprise in every bite.
Chocolate Drizzle: Top your gingerbread cheesecake cookies with a luscious drizzle of melted white chocolate or dark chocolate. This additional layer adds a beautifully festive flair and a sweet contrast to the spicy gingerbread.
Fruity Twist: Add a spoonful of finely chopped dried cranberries or cherries to the dough for a touch of tartness. This fruity addition brightens the flavor profile and adds visually appealing specks of color.
Heat it Up: For those who crave a little spice, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the dough. It’s an adventurous way to elevate the flavor and add warmth.
Vegan Option: Swap the cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese alternative and use flax eggs instead of egg yolks to create a plant-based version. This way, everyone can enjoy delicious gingerbread goodness!
Soft-Baked Variation: For softer cookies, reduce the baking time by a minute or two. This will ensure you achieve a dreamy, chewy interior while keeping that lovely gingerbread crust intact.

Stir up your holiday spirit with these variations, and if you’re also craving an indulgent cheesecake experience, why not try our Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies or for a lighter option, check out our Sugar Free Cheesecake? Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days; they may soften slightly but will still be delicious.

Fridge: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor while enjoying the creamy filling.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies in the fridge overnight before enjoying or warm briefly in the microwave for a soft, gooey experience.

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Cheesecake Ball Temperature: Ensure that the cheesecake balls are frozen solid before using them. This prevents the filling from melting during baking.
Cookie Cooling: Allow the gingerbread cheesecake cookies to cool completely on the rack to avoid the filling leaking out when bitten into.
Precise Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for accurate flour measurements; too much flour can lead to dry, crumbly gingerbread cookies.
Avoid Puffing: If your cookies puff up during baking, gently reshape them while they’re still warm for a more pleasing appearance and texture.
Spice Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with spices! Cardamom can add a unique flavor twist to your gingerbread cheesecake cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and freeze it in small balls up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the filling retains its creamy texture. The gingerbread dough can also be made ahead, wrapped tightly, and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the dough, enclose the frozen cheesecake balls, roll them in spiced sugar, and bake as directed. This approach not only helps you manage your time more efficiently but also guarantees that your cookies are just as delicious and festive whenever you choose to serve them!

What to Serve with Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Indulging in these festive treats opens up a delightful array of accompaniments to enhance your holiday experience.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey beverage perfectly balances the spiced flavors of the cookies, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink complements the ginger notes while adding a touch of sophistication to your dessert spread.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: A cup of coffee with a touch of cream brightens the sweet, creamy cheesecake filling and pairs beautifully with the cookies’ spices.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side adds a cooling contrast to the spiced cookies, making for a decadent treat.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage, with its hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, echoes the cookies’ flavor profile while providing a comforting and festive drink option.
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty sweetness of pecan pie bars pairs nicely, introducing a different texture while still embracing holiday flavors.

These delightful pairings promise to elevate your holiday gatherings, making every moment sweeter and more memorable!

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cream cheese should I use for the cheesecake filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest filling. It should be cold when mixing to ensure it blends smoothly. Avoid using low-fat options as they may yield a grainy texture.

How long can I store these cookies?
You can keep your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to maintain their freshness, store them in the fridge for the same duration. Just remember, they may soften slightly at room temperature but will still be delightful!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, first place the baked cookies in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until they are firm. This prevents them from sticking together. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 weeks. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

I’m worried about the cheesecake filling melting during baking. Any tips?
Yes, to prevent the filling from melting, ensure your cheesecake balls are completely frozen before encasing them in the gingerbread dough. Freezing for at least 2 hours is ideal. If you’re short on time, try freezing overnight for guaranteed firmness!

Can I modify the spices for dietary preferences?
Very! If you or someone you’re serving has a sensitivity to certain spices, you can easily omit ground allspice or substitute with other favorites like cardamom or cloves. Just remember that each spice adds its own unique touch to your cookies!

Are these cookies safe for pets?
Not at all! These cookies contain ingredients like cream cheese and sugar, which are not suitable for pets, especially dogs and cats. Always keep your baked goods out of reach from curious paws to ensure their safety!