Irresistible Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies for the Holidays

Did you know that the scent of gingerbread is often considered the smell of Christmas? Imagine your home filled with warm, spicy aromas as you bake, welcoming the festive spirit into every corner. That’s exactly what these Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies bring to the table—a delightful combination of beloved holiday flavors wrapped into soft, chewy cookies. The star of the show is the creamy cheesecake filling that adds a luxurious twist to classic gingerbread, making them a must-try holiday dessert.

The best part? Not only are these cookies incredibly easy to whip up, but they also have the potential to become a centerpiece at any holiday gathering. With a generous dusting of spiced sugar on top, these cookies are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply appease your sweet tooth, these treats won’t let you down.

Curious about how to recreate this holiday magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the simple steps to bake these incredible cookies together!

Why are Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies special?

Festive Flavors: The combination of gingerbread and cheesecake creates a unique taste experience that embodies the holiday spirit.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, even novice bakers can enjoy a rewarding baking experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Beautiful Presentation: Coated in spiced sugar, they not only taste great but also look stunning on any dessert platter.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with variations, like adding white chocolate swirls or extra spices. If you enjoy similar flavors, check out our delightful Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Cookies for more inspiration!

Soft and Chewy: The texture of these cookies strikes a perfect balance, offering a chewy bite with a creamy center that’s simply irresistible.

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients

• Let's gather everything we need to whip up these festive delights!

For the Cheesecake Filling:

Cream Cheese (6 oz/170 g), cold – Make sure to use cold cream cheese for a smooth and creamy filling.
Granulated White Sugar (3 tbsp/38 g) – This adds sweetness and helps the sugar dissolve beautifully into the cream cheese.
Vanilla (½ tsp) – Enhance the flavor of your filling with a touch of vanilla.

For the Spiced Sugar:

Granulated White Sugar (6 tbsp/75 g) – This sweet coating makes the cookies extra delightful.
Ground Ginger (½ tsp) – A key ingredient that adds warmth and the distinctive gingerbread flavor.
Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp) – This classic cookie spice brings warmth and depth to every bite.
Ground Allspice (⅛ tsp) – A hint of complexity with this special spice blend.
Ground Nutmeg (⅛ tsp) – This adds a warm, slightly nutty note to the cookie mix.
Ground Cloves (⅛ tsp) – Contributes to the rich gingerbread character with its strong spice flavor.

For the Gingerbread Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups/313 g), spooned and leveled – For the perfect cookie structure, measure flour correctly using the spoon and level method.
Ground Ginger (2 ½ tsp) – Infuses the cookies with that iconic ginger flavor.
Ground Cinnamon (2 ½ tsp) – Enhances the overall warmth and flavor profile of the cookies.
Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp) – A lovely flavor enhancer that rounds out the spices.
Ground Allspice (¼ tsp) – Adds even more spice notes to the mix.
Ground Cloves (¼ tsp) – Deepens the flavor and contributes to the cookie's amazing scent.
Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Baking Soda (½ tsp) – This leavening agent gives the cookies the right rise and texture.
Unsalted Butter (¾ cup/168 g), softened – A rich addition that promotes flavor and tenderness.
Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup/165 g), packed – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses for chewiness.
Egg Yolks (2, at room temperature) – They provide richness and help with structure.
Vanilla (1 tsp) – This extra touch of vanilla adds even more flavor.
Unsulphured Molasses (⅓ cup/113 g) – The key ingredient for the quintessential gingerbread flavor, moisture, and chewiness.

Now that we have the essentials for our Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies, let’s move on to the fun part—baking!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1
Begin by preparing the cheesecake filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes fluffy and well combined, which will take about 2-3 minutes. Once smooth, scoop the mixture into 18 equal portions and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze these portions until they are firm, which should take about 30 minutes.

Step 2
While the cheesecake filling is freezing, create the delicious spiced sugar coating. In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves until evenly mixed. Set this mixture aside; the spices will enhance the cookies’ flavors and give them a festive flair.

Step 3
Next, focus on the gingerbread cookie dough. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, ground cloves, salt, and baking soda until well blended. This ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a uniform flavor throughout your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies.

Step 4
Now, it's time to cream the butter and sugars. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and packed light brown sugar together on medium-high speed until the mixture is fluffy and light in color, which will take about 2 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture, so ensure the mixture is airy.

Step 5
Next, add the room-temperature egg yolks, unsulphured molasses, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Beat these ingredients together for about 1 minute, or until they are fully incorporated and the mixture appears silky and combined. This step not only enriches the flavor but also helps bind the ingredients well.

Step 6
Gradually mix the dry ingredient blend into the wet mixture. Start by adding the dry ingredients in three parts, mixing on low speed until just combined. Take care to stop mixing as soon as you no longer see flour. This helps prevent overworking the dough and keeps your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies tender.

Step 7
Scoop out portions of the cookie dough, aiming for 18 equal amounts, and flatten each portion slightly in the palm of your hand. Place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center of each piece of dough, then carefully fold the dough around the cheesecake, rolling it into a ball. Make sure the filling is completely enclosed to prevent leakage during baking.

Step 8
Roll each dough ball in the prepared spiced sugar, ensuring they are fully coated for an extra layer of flavor. The sugars will not only sweeten the cookies but also add a delightful texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the baking sheets.

Step 9
Arrange the cookie balls, spaced adequately apart, on a lined baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for 11-12 minutes or until the edges are set, and the centers look slightly soft and puffy. The cookies should start to brown slightly at the edges but remain soft in the middle for that perfect chewy bite.

Step 10
Once baked, allow the Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the cookies set and the cheesecake filling firm up. After, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these festive delights once they’ve cooled and the creamy filling is ready to be savored!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

• Perfect Measurements: Use a digital kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurements like flour, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Filling: Don’t skip freezing the cheesecake balls; this prevents leakage and keeps the filling intact while baking.

• Allow Cooling: Let the cookies cool thoroughly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a rack; this allows the cheesecake filling to set and enhances texture.

• Uniform Shape: For consistent cookie shapes, use a cookie cutter or a measuring scoop when portioning your dough around the cheesecake balls.

• Watch the Bake: Ovens vary, so check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid overbaking; they should be soft in the middle.

• Flavor Boost: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cardamom or a dash of citrus zest to elevate your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep cookies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months, making it a breeze to enjoy Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies anytime!

Reheating: To reheat, warm baked cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through, restoring their wonderful softness.

What to Serve with Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies?

Picture this: cozy gatherings filled with laughter, festive cheer, and delightful treats. Pairing your gingerbread cheesecake cookies with these complementary options will create a warm holiday atmosphere that lingers in every heart.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A creamy, rich hot chocolate enhances the holiday spirit, perfectly complementing the spicy flavors of the cookies. Imagine sipping this delight alongside a cookie while nestled under a blanket.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings a touch of sweetness and warmth, balancing the richness of the cheesecake filling beautifully. It’s like a hug in a cup, making it an ideal companion for your cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the chewy cookie. The cooling effect of ice cream brings a lovely contrast to the warmth of the spices.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling caramel sauce over your cookies takes indulgence to the next level. The sweet, buttery flavor pairs deliciously with the spices in the cookies, creating an irresistible treat.
Cheese Platter: A selection of rich cheeses, like brie or aged cheddar, introduces a savory element that balances the sweetness of the cookies. Include some dried fruits and nuts for added texture and flavor.
Eggnog: Creamy, spiced eggnog embodies the essence of the holidays, making it a festive drink that pairs well with the cookies. Its rich flavor profile perfectly complements the gingerbread cheesecake's sweetness.

Creating a magical holiday atmosphere is all about harmonizing flavors and textures. These pairings ensure your gingerbread cheesecake cookies shine in every festive gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked treats even on the busiest of days! You can prepare the cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and freeze scooped portions until firm. The cookie dough can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, just scoop out the dough, wrap the frozen cheesecake balls, and roll them in spiced sugar before baking. This method helps maintain the cookies' chewy texture and deliciousness, ensuring your holiday baking remains stress-free and enjoyable!

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and put your unique spin on these delightful cookies!

Cheesecake-Free: Omit the cheesecake filling for delicious, classic gingerbread cookies. Perfect for those who prefer a simpler treat.
White Chocolate Swirl: Melt white chocolate and swirl it into the cheesecake filling for a sweet, creamy surprise that balances the spices beautifully.
Salted Butter: Swap unsalted butter for salted butter for a delightful hint of salt that enhances the sweetness and richness of every bite.
Extra Spices: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or ginger for an even bolder flavor profile that embodies the essence of holiday baking.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a lovely crunch that pairs excellently with the soft cookie texture.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the dough for a surprising heat that compliment the ginger flavor beautifully.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities while keeping the cookies soft and chewy.
Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest lends a refreshing pop of flavor that brightens the warm spices and makes your cookies truly unique.

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the cheesecake filling?
To ensure the best texture and flavor in your cheesecake filling, use cold cream cheese. It should feel slightly firm to the touch and not have any dark spots. If you can, pick a brand that has a smooth consistency, as this will blend seamlessly with sugar and vanilla to create that rich filling.

What’s the best way to store Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them in the same airtight container for up to a week. However, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before indulging for that lovely chewy texture.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze both the unbaked cookie dough balls and the baked cookies. For unbaked dough, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll stay fresh for the same duration. When you’re ready, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the oven.

What should I do if my cookies are too hard or dry?
If your cookies turn out hard, it may be due to overbaking or not properly measuring the flour. Make sure to spoon and level the flour rather than packing it down. Always check the cookies a minute or two before the suggested time, and let them cool properly to allow the creamy filling to stabilize. If you want softer cookies next time, consider adding an extra yolk or a tablespoon of milk to the dough mixture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies?
If you’re concerned about allergies, be aware that this recipe contains dairy and eggs. For a dairy-free alternative, you could use plant-based cream cheese for the filling, and you might try a flax egg or a commercial egg substitute for binding. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure all products are free from allergens as needed.

Aria West