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Cozy Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars: 5-Ingredient Easy Dessert

gingerbread cheesecake bars - featured image

A simple, comforting dessert combining spicy gingerbread flavors with creamy cheesecake. These bars are easy to make with pantry staples and perfect for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons molasses (blackstrap or light)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and spray lightly with non-stick spray.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon sugar until resembling wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  4. Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Remove and let cool while making the filling.
  5. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Scrape down sides.
  6. Add 3/4 cup sugar and molasses. Beat on low speed until combined.
  7. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
  8. Add flour, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix on low speed until just combined. Fold in sour cream.
  9. Pour filling over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
  11. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour.
  12. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing into 12 squares.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to prevent lumps. Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs to avoid cracks. The bars must be chilled thoroughly for clean cuts. For a water bath method, place the pan in a larger roasting pan filled with hot water halfway up the sides.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread cheesecake, easy dessert, cozy baking, graham cracker crust, molasses dessert, fall baking, simple cheesecake bars