Heavenly Spiced Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

The holidays are a magical time filled with laughter, love, and, most importantly, baked goods. Few treats capture the warm, cozy spirit of the season quite like Heavenly Spiced Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies. These cookies are the perfect fusion of spiced gingerbread and creamy cheesecake, wrapped in a soft, sugary shell.

As you bake these delightful cookies, your kitchen will fill with the aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and molasses—instantly transporting you to a winter wonderland. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones, gifting them to friends, or indulging on your own, these cookies are bound to become a holiday favorite.

What Makes Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies So Special?

• Delicious Combination: A creamy cheesecake center surrounded by rich, spiced gingerbread cookie dough offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Aromatic and Festive: With spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, these cookies encapsulate the essence of holiday baking.
• Visually Stunning: Their crackled, spiced sugar coating and creamy centers make these cookies as beautiful as they are delicious.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are a hit at holiday parties, cookie swaps, or as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Ingredients for Heavenly Spiced Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Cheesecake Filling

Ingredient	Measurement
Cream cheese (cold)	6 oz (170 g)
Granulated sugar	3 tbsp (38 g)
Vanilla extract	1/2 tsp

Spiced Sugar Coating

Ingredient	Measurement
Granulated sugar	6 tbsp (75 g)
Ground ginger	1/2 tsp
Ground cinnamon	1/2 tsp
Ground allspice	1/8 tsp
Ground nutmeg	1/8 tsp
Ground cloves	1/8 tsp

Gingerbread Cookie Dough

Ingredient	Measurement
All-purpose flour	2 1/2 cups (313 g)
Ground ginger	2 1/2 tsp
Ground cinnamon	2 1/2 tsp
Ground nutmeg	1/2 tsp
Ground allspice	1/4 tsp
Ground cloves	1/4 tsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Baking soda	1/2 tsp
Unsalted butter (softened)	3/4 cup (168 g)
Light brown sugar (packed)	3/4 cup (165 g)
Egg yolks (room temperature)	2
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Unsulphured molasses	1/3 cup (113 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a small bowl, beat the cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Scoop teaspoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined tray. Flatten slightly to create discs.
3. Freeze the cheesecake filling for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Step 2: Make the Spiced Sugar Coating

1. Combine the granulated sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves in a small bowl.
2. Mix well and set aside for coating the cookie dough later.

Step 3: Prepare the Gingerbread Cookie Dough

1. Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, ground spices, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolks, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and molasses. Mix until fully combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

1. Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of gingerbread dough and flatten each into a disk.
2. Place a frozen cheesecake filling piece in the center of each disk. Wrap the dough around it, ensuring the cheesecake is fully enclosed.
3. Roll the stuffed dough ball in the spiced sugar mixture to coat evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Place the coated dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and slightly cracked on top.
4. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

• Keep the Cheesecake Filling Cold: Freezing the filling makes it easier to work with and prevents it from leaking during baking.
• Don’t Overbake: The cookies should be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven—they’ll firm up as they cool.
• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, make sure your spices are fresh and aromatic.
• Chill the Dough: If the gingerbread dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before assembling the cookies.

Creative Variations

1. Drizzle with Icing
   Add a decorative touch by drizzling a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cookies.
2. Add Chocolate Chips
   Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the gingerbread dough for a hint of chocolate.
3. Citrus Twist
   Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.
4. Nutty Surprise
   Roll the cookies in chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for added crunch.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Cookie
Calories	180
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	25g
Sugar	14g
Protein	2g

FAQs About Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake filling and gingerbread dough a day in advance. Store the dough in the refrigerator and the filling in the freezer until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. What if I don’t have all the spices?
If you’re missing a spice, you can adjust the quantities of the others to maintain the flavor balance. For example, substitute additional cinnamon for allspice or nutmeg.

4. Why is my dough too sticky to handle?
Sticky dough can result from warm butter. Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes before assembling the cookies.

5. How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

6. Can I make the cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute for the all-purpose flour.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

With their creamy cheesecake filling, warm spices, and soft gingerbread exterior, Heavenly Spiced Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect holiday treat. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Bake a Batch Today

Ready to create a new holiday tradition? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking these irresistible cookies. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them with a cup of coffee, these cookies will fill your heart and home with joy.

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