Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of gingerbread with a creamy cheesecake filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends. Their unique combination of textures and spices makes them an irresistible choice for any gingerbread lover. Whether you’re baking for Christmas or just craving something sweet, these cookies will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices and creamy cheesecake makes each bite a flavor explosion.
• Chewy Texture: These cookies offer a perfect chewy consistency that complements the smooth filling.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 18 cookies per batch, they are ideal for parties, cookie swaps, or festive gatherings.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite spices or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your gingerbread cheesecake cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming together butter and sugar, ensuring a light texture.
• Baking sheets: Using a good-quality baking sheet helps achieve even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

These are the best gingerbread cheesecake cookies! They are chewy gingerbread cookies, stuffed with a creamy cheesecake filling and rolled in spiced sugar. They’re the perfect Christmas treat and every gingerbread lover will adore them!

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
• 3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Gingerbread Cookies

• 6 tbsp (75 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground allspice
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 2 1/2 cups (313 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/3 cup (113 g) unsulphured molasses

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Start by mixing the cold cream cheese with granulated white sugar and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, flour, additional ground ginger, additional ground cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and mix well. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and light brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg yolks and vanilla; mix until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to this mixture until well incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take about one tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it in your hand. Place about one teaspoon of cream cheese filling in the center. Fold the dough around the filling to seal it completely. Roll into a ball and set aside.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Place rolled cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for approximately 11 minutes or until they are set but still soft in the center. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before enjoying!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few creative ideas. Here are some delicious suggestions to enjoy these festive treats!

With Hot Beverages

• Hot Cocoa: Pair your cookies with a rich cup of hot cocoa for a cozy winter treat.
• Spiced Tea: A steaming mug of spiced tea complements the warm flavors in the cookies beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other holiday cookies for an inviting dessert spread.
• Cheesecake Bites: Serve mini cheesecake bites as an additional sweet to accompany the gingerbread flavors.

With Fresh Fruits

• Clementine Slices: The citrusy sweetness of clementines balances the spices in the cookies perfectly.
• Apple Wedges: Crisp apple slices add a refreshing crunch and contrast to the soft, creamy cookies.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

To ensure your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes helps maintain its shape during baking.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing cream cheese and butter to room temperature makes mixing easier and creates a smoother filling.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level flour into measuring cups to avoid dense cookies; this ensures light and chewy textures.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Bake until edges are firm but centers remain soft. Overbaking will lead to dry cookies.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust spice levels according to your taste for a personalized flavor profile in your cookies.
• Store Properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Serve your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies with these delightful side dishes that enhance their festive charm. Each option brings something special to your dessert table.

1. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Pumpkin Pie Dip: A creamy pumpkin pie dip adds seasonal flavor and is perfect for dipping.
3. Nutty Granola: Crunchy nutty granola offers texture and pairs well with the creamy cheesecake filling.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cookies, creating a decadent dessert experience.
5. Chocolate Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of melted chocolate enhances visual appeal and adds richness to each bite.
6. Roasted Nuts: Serve mixed roasted nuts for a savory crunch that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect your results.

• Using warm cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is cold for a firmer filling. Warm cream cheese can make the filling too runny.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Packing it down leads to dry cookies.
• Skipping the chill time: Allowing the cookie dough to chill is essential for the right texture. Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on them as they bake; remove them when they’re just set and slightly soft in the center for a chewy texture.
• Ignoring spices: The spices create the signature gingerbread flavor. Don’t skip or reduce them; adjust according to your taste preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last for up to three months.

Reheating Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as this can make them tough.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for 1-2 minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different fillings for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies?

Yes! You can experiment with various fillings like chocolate ganache or flavored creams. Just ensure they complement the gingerbread flavor.

How do I know when my Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are done?

The cookies should be set but slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!

How should I store leftover Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies?

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for extended freshness.

What makes these cookies perfect for Christmas?

The combination of warm spices and creamy filling captures the essence of traditional holiday flavors, making them an ideal festive treat.

Final Thoughts

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or fillings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a festive treat that everyone will love!