Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

If you are on the hunt for a festive treat that perfectly blends spicy warmth with creamy indulgence, these Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are absolutely the way to go. Imagine biting into a tender gingerbread cookie, fragrant with cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of molasses, only to find a luscious, dreamy cheesecake center melting in your mouth. These cookies bring the cozy comfort of winter spices to new heights, making them a guaranteed showstopper at any holiday gathering or a special treat to enjoy with your favorite hot drink. Trust me, once you try these Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies, they’ll become a beloved staple in your festive baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a harmoniously spiced cookie with a creamy surprise inside. Each ingredient plays an important role—whether it’s the warming spices that give the gingerbread spirit or the silky cream cheese that makes the filling irresistible and soft.

• Cream cheese (6 oz, cold): Provides the smooth, tangy cheesecake filling that contrasts the spiced cookie beautifully.
• Granulated white sugar (9 tbsp total): Sweetens both the cheesecake filling and coats the cookies with a little sparkle.
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp total): Adds depth and richness to both the filling and cookie dough.
• Ground ginger (3 tsp total): The star spice, giving those iconic gingerbread notes and some warmth.
• Ground cinnamon (3 tsp total): Adds a sweet, woody spice essential for that cozy flavor.
• Ground allspice, nutmeg, cloves (small amounts): Layered spices that bring complexity and that unmistakable holiday vibe.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Forms the sturdy base of the cookie dough ensuring a tender yet structured bite.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Gives the cookie a slight lift and tender texture.
• Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, softened): Contributes richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
• Light brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Adds moisture and caramel undertones for that cozy warmth.
• Egg yolks (2, room temperature): Adds richness and helps bind the dough.
• Unsulphured molasses (1/3 cup): Gives the classic gingerbread color, deep flavor, and fudgy texture.

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Begin by lining a small cookie sheet with parchment paper to keep things tidy. Mix the cold cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla using an electric mixer at medium-high speed until fluffy and smooth, about 2 minutes. Scoop this luscious mixture into eighteen little 2 teaspoon portions and place them on your sheet. Pop these cheesecake balls into the freezer until they’re firm and frozen solid—this step is essential to keep them intact when wrapped inside the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Spiced Sugar

Whisk together the remaining sugar with the gingerbread spices in a small bowl. This spiced sugar mixture will add a sparkling spicy crust to the cookies, making them look as stunning as they taste.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground spices, baking soda, and salt. This combination gives the cookie dough its rich gingerbread flavor and a balanced rise.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and light brown sugar together until fluffy and lighter in color, about 2 minutes. This creates a tender, moist base for the dough. Be sure to scrape down the bowl for even mixing.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the egg yolks, molasses, and vanilla to the creamed butter mixture and beat for one minute on medium speed until fully incorporated and fluffy. This step brings a molasses-rich depth and moisture that’s key for authentic gingerbread flavor.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so stop when you see no visible flour.

Step 7: Assemble the Cookies

Divide the dough into eighteen 2-tablespoon portions and roll into balls. Press each ball to flatten slightly and place a frozen cheesecake ball in the center. Carefully wrap the cookie dough around the cheesecake, sealing it completely and reshaping into a ball. Roll each cookie ball in the spiced sugar mixture, coating evenly. Keep the cheesecake balls in the freezer until you’re ready to assemble each batch to maintain shape.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Arrange six cookies per baking sheet and bake for 11 to 12 minutes. Watch closely—the cookies should be set but still soft in the middle for that creamy cheesecake surprise. Let them cool on the sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Garnishes

To elevate these Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies, consider dusting a little powdered sugar or a light drizzle of warm white chocolate over the top. A sprinkle of finely chopped crystallized ginger adds a delightful zing and extra texture that plays beautifully with the creamy center.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm beverage like chai tea, spiced hot chocolate, or a frothy latte. The creamy, spicy cookie contrasts beautifully with the warmth and helps create a cozy moment that’s perfect for chilly afternoons or holiday celebrations.

Creative Ways to Present

For an enchanting presentation, serve the Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside festive elements like cinnamon sticks, star anise, and fresh cranberries. Alternatively, arrange them in a tiered dessert stand to showcase their charm at parties or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep them away from humidity to preserve the cookie’s crunch and cheesecake’s creaminess.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them fully baked and cooled by placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the cookies in a preheated 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5 minutes. This step refreshes the soft cookie texture and slightly warms the cheesecake center, making every bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese or does it have to be full-fat?

Full-fat cream cheese works best here because it provides that creamy richness essential for the cheesecake filling. Using low-fat versions might make the filling less smooth and flavorful.

How do I make sure the cheesecake center doesn’t leak out while baking?

The key is to freeze the cheesecake balls until firm before wrapping them in the cookie dough and baking. Also, be sure to seal the dough tightly around the filling to keep it completely enclosed.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, bring the dough to room temperature slightly before assembling the cookies around the frozen cheesecake balls.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

Ground ginger and cinnamon are the must-haves for the classic gingerbread flavor. If you’re missing one of the smaller amounts of spices like cloves or allspice, your cookies will still be delicious, just slightly less complex in spice.

Can these cookies be made vegan or dairy-free?

Since the recipe relies on cream cheese and butter, substitutions can be tricky without compromising texture and flavor. However, you might experiment with vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter, but expect some variation in texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

These Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are truly something special. They capture the heart of holiday spices while delivering a smooth, creamy surprise in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just yourself, these cookies will warm your spirits and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. So go ahead, dive in and treat yourself to this perfect blend of gingerbread charm and cheesecake luxury—you won’t regret it!

Print