Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars

Get ready to impress your guests this holiday season with a decadent treat that combines the festive flavors of gingerbread and the creamy richness of cheesecake. These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are the perfect addition to any Christmas gathering, whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a festive cookie swap. With a buttery gingerbread crust and a luscious cheesecake filling, these bars offer a delightful balance of warm spices and sweet indulgence.

Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
– 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves

For the Topping:
– Whipped cream, for garnish
– Ground cinnamon, for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the gingersnap crumbs, melted butter, and sugar for the crust. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.

3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, using the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a smooth, compact layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to set.

4. While the crust is baking, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5. Stir in the vanilla extract, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until fully incorporated. The warm spices will complement the gingerbread crust for a festive flavor profile.

6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for a neat finish.

7. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake the Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

8. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and set.

9. Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the dish. Cut them into squares or bars of your preferred size.

10. Before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar and dust with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of holiday charm.

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars are a delightful combination of classic holiday flavors in a convenient bar format, making them easy to serve and share. Whether you enjoy them as a festive dessert or a cozy afternoon treat with a cup of hot cocoa, these bars are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy the warm spices and creamy indulgence of this delightful Christmas baking recipe!