Name: Best Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Hello there, fellow baking enthusiasts! If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect holiday treat that combines the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread with the creamy richness of cheesecake, then you’re in for a delightful surprise. Today, I’m sharing my Best Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Recipe, a sweet creation that will wrap you in comfort and joy. These cookies are not only delicious but also bring the cozy vibes of the holiday season right to your kitchen. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this festive adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Picture this: soft, chewy cookies bursting with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are filled with a luscious cheesecake center. Why would you possibly want to take a bite out of anything else? Here are the best reasons why this recipe is a must-try this holiday season:

Flavor Harmony: The blend of spices used in the gingerbread creates a warm, familiar taste that perfectly complements the tangy sweetness of the cheesecake filling. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!
Baked with Love: Each cookie is crafted with love and intention. The whole process of mixing, baking, and savoring these cookies is perfect for family bonding or solo therapy time in the kitchen.
Presentation Perfection: When you serve these cookies, they’ll not only taste amazing, but they’ll also look stunning on any dessert platter.
Great for Sharing: Whether it’s a holiday party, a cozy gathering, or a simple treat for yourself, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends, family, or even just your own taste buds.

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Ready to whip up these delightful treats? Follow this easy step-by-step guide for making the Best Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies.

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
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and molasses, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until you have a soft dough.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. This will create a luscious filling that pairs perfectly with the spiced cookie.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out a tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly with your hands. Add about a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Take another tablespoon of dough, flatten it, and place it on top, sealing the edges to encase the filling. Repeat this for the remaining dough and filling.

Step 4: Bake
Place the assembled cookies on the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best Ways to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed in a variety of delightful ways:

Warm and Fresh: Serve them straight from the oven for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
With Tea or Coffee: Pair your cookies with a warm cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.
Decorative Platter: Arrange your cookies on a festive platter, garnished with some cinnamon sticks or star anise for a beautiful presentation.

Keeping Your Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Fresh

To keep your cookies deliciously fresh:

Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just be sure they cool completely before storing, to avoid any sogginess.
Freezing: You can freeze the cookies! Just layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Expert Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients with the wet, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them soft and chewy.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste. Love a little more ginger? Go for it!

Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Recipe Variations to Try

Looking for ways to mix it up? Here are some delicious variations:

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cranberry Filling: Add a layer of cranberry sauce for a tart twist that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavors.

2. Can I use a different filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Lemon curd or chocolate ganache could add a fun twist.

3. What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread out too much while baking, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. It helps the cookies hold their shape better.

There you have it! My Best Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen. Enjoy the process, embrace the holiday spirit, and remember, baking is all about love and joy. Happy baking, friends!