Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies
why make this recipe
Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly merges two favorite dessert concepts: the cozy and spiced flavors of gingerbread and the creamy richness of cheesecake. Whether it’s during the holiday season or any time you’re in the mood for something warm and inviting, these cookies pack a punch of flavor and satisfaction. They’re not just delicious but also fun to make, bringing joy to your kitchen and smiles to the faces of those who enjoy them. If you have friends or family coming over, these cookies can be a delightful way to impress them.
The texture of these cookies is beautifully soft and chewy, while the cheesecake filling adds an indulgent touch that takes them to a whole new level. Plus, they are visually appealing, with their glossy cream cheese center making a stunning contrast to the golden brown edges of the gingerbread cookie. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or savoring all by yourself, these cookies are a wonderful addition to any dessert table or snack time!
how to make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies
Making Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies is a straightforward process that can be broken down into simple steps. Here’s how to create these scrumptious treats in just a few easy moves.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
To start off, grab a large mixing bowl. Here, you will cream the softened unsalted butter with the brown sugar. Use an electric mixer if you have one or a sturdy wooden spoon. Mix them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is important because it helps to incorporate air into the batter, giving the cookies a nice light texture.
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add in the egg and molasses. Mix these ingredients until they are fully incorporated into the mixture. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to get everything well mixed.
In another bowl, use a whisk to combine the dry ingredients. This includes the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Whisking helps to disperse the spices evenly throughout the flour, which ensures that every cookie has a good amount of flavor.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until everything is just combined. You want to avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to tough cookies. Once combined, cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilling the dough will help the flavors meld together and make it easier to handle.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
While your cookie dough is chilling, it’s time to prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step. After it’s smooth, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients well until the filling is smooth and free of lumps. This cheesecake filling is going to create a luscious center for your cookies.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Once your cookie dough is ready and the cheesecake filling is made, it’s time to assemble the cookies. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get out your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets with about two inches of space between each cookie. Use your thumb or the back of a teaspoon to press an indentation into the center of each cookie ball. Be careful not to press all the way through.
Next, fill the indentations with the cheesecake mixture. Don’t be shy; you can fill it generously! But avoid overfilling to prevent spillage during baking.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven. Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes. You want the edges of the cookies to be lightly browned while the centers remain soft. Keep a close eye on them toward the end of the baking time.
Once they’re done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. You don’t want to skip this step, as letting them cool helps maintain their shape.
how to serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies
Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect as a stand-alone treat with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Alternatively, they can be served on a dessert platter during holidays or special gatherings. Their festive flavors can really impress your guests! You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an added touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
These cookies will delight both kids and adults alike. For special occasions, consider serving them with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert option. Pair them with some tasty spiced apple cider or a hot chocolate for a fun and cozy vibe.
how to store Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies
To ensure that your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies stay fresh and delicious, you should store them properly. Once they have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. It’s best to store them in the refrigerator because of the cheesecake filling, which can spoil if left out at room temperature for too long.
When stored in the refrigerator, these cookies should last about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. To enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
tips to make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies
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Softening Cream Cheese Quickly: If you forget to take the cream cheese out ahead of time, you can cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 10 seconds to soften it up.
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Chill or Not to Chill: If you’re short on time, you can skip the chilling step, but chilling the dough does improve the texture and flavor of the cookies.
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Variations: Feel free to switch up the spices. For a different twist, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice for more flavor depth.
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Avoid Overfilling: While it might be tempting to pile on the cheesecake filling, too much can cause it to overflow during baking. Aim for a nice dollop right in the center.
variation
These cookies are wonderful as they are, but you can easily switch things up based on your preferences. For example, if you want to enhance the benefits of these cookies, try adding some finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch.
Another variation could be to make them chocolate-flavored. Simply replace a part of the flour with cocoa powder. This will give you a chocolate gingerbread base, and you could even add chocolate chips to the dough for added richness.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cookie dough and cheesecake filling ahead of time and store them separately in your refrigerator. Just be sure to chill the dough as mentioned before. You can assemble and bake them shortly before you plan to serve them.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that this will alter the taste slightly, as molasses has a distinct flavor.
Are there any gluten-free options for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you choose contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to replicate the texture of traditional cookies.
How can I make my cookies chewier?
For chewier cookies, try slightly increasing the amount of brown sugar you use. Brown sugar has more moisture than granulated sugar, resulting in a softer and chewier texture.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies. Make sure to let them cool completely before packing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months, and you can thaw them in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
These delightful cookies are not just a treat for special occasions, but they can turn into a favorite staple in your dessert repertoire. With their rich flavors and creamy textures, Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are bound to win over hearts and tickle taste buds. Enjoy making them, sharing them, and, most importantly, savoring each delicious bite!
