Creamy Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups Recipe

Irresistible No-Bake Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups Recipe

Creamy, decadent no-bake gingerbread spice cheesecake cups dance with rich seasonal flavors that capture winter’s warmth.

Holiday desserts rarely feel this luxurious and effortless to prepare.

Warm spices like cinnamon and ginger swirl through silky cream cheese, creating an irresistible treat.

Crumbly graham cracker crusts provide a perfect textural contrast to the smooth filling.

Each spoonful delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice that melts in your mouth.

These individual dessert cups eliminate complicated baking steps while delivering maximum flavor.

Dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that promises to become your new favorite holiday indulgence.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Calories: 370 kcal

Servings: 3

What Goes Into No-Bake Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups

For Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a classic, crunchy base with warm, honey-like undertones that complement the spices.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust ingredients together.
  • Cinnamon: Introduces a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the gingerbread theme.
  • Butter: Ensures the crust holds its shape and adds richness to the base.
For Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, velvety texture and serves as the primary creamy component.
  • Brown Sugar: Delivers a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with warm spices.
  • Molasses: Brings an intense, robust flavor characteristic of traditional gingerbread.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle depth and rounds out the overall flavor profile.
  • Ginger, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: These signature spices combine to create an authentic gingerbread taste sensation.
  • Whipped Cream: Lightens the filling and adds a cloud-like, airy texture.
For Garnish:
  • Whipped Cream: Provides a smooth, fluffy topping that adds extra indulgence.
  • Gingersnap Cookies: Offers a crunchy texture and reinforces the gingerbread flavor.
  • Cinnamon Stick: Serves as an elegant, aromatic decorative element.
  • Mini Gingerbread Man: Adds a playful, festive touch to the dessert.

No-Bake Tools For Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups

  • Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining crust ingredients and creating creamy cheesecake filling.
  • Electric mixer or whisk: Perfect for beating cream cheese until smooth and incorporating whipped cream.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurately measuring dry and wet ingredients.
  • Spatula: Helps fold ingredients and smooth the top of cheesecake filling.
  • 6 serving glasses or cups: Needed to create individual no-bake dessert portions.
  • Piping bag (optional): Great for creating decorative filling tops.
  • Small bowl: Useful for mixing crust ingredients.

How To Layer No-Bake Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups Smoothly

  • Crumbly Cookie Base

Mix graham crackers with warm spices and melted butter. Press the crumbly mixture into fancy glasses, creating a delicious foundation. Let it hang out in the refrigerator while you craft the creamy filling.

  • Creamy Spice Dreamland

Whip cream cheese until silky smooth, blending in rich brown sugar and aromatic holiday spices. Fold in fluffy whipped cream gently, creating a cloud-like texture that whispers winter comfort.

  • Layered Dessert Magic

Carefully spoon the dreamy spiced mixture over the cookie base. Use a spatula to create elegant swirls or smooth surfaces. Chill in the refrigerator until the cheesecake sets and becomes wonderfully firm.

  • Festive Final Touch

Crown each cheesecake cup with a cloud of whipped cream. Sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies on top for a delightful crunch. Add a cute cinnamon stick or tiny gingerbread friend for extra holiday cheer.

Toppings You’ll Love On Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups

  • Spice It Up Perfectly: Expert Gingerbread Cheesecake Tips
  • Cream Cheese Temperature Trick: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure ultra-smooth, lump-free filling that blends perfectly with spices.
  • Whipped Cream Perfection: Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form for a lighter, airier cheesecake texture that holds its shape beautifully when folded into the mixture.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: These no-bake cups can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or unexpected dessert cravings.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free gingersnap cookies or almond flour-based crust for a celiac-friendly version that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Serving No-Bake Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups At Events

  • Festive Holiday Centerpiece: Create a stunning dessert display by arranging the gingerbread cheesecake cups on a rustic wooden board with fresh pine sprigs, cinnamon sticks, and twinkling fairy lights for a magical holiday presentation.
  • Winter Warm-up Companion: Serve these creamy cups alongside a steaming mug of hot mulled wine or spiced apple cider to enhance the cozy seasonal flavors and create a comforting dessert experience.
  • Gifting Gourmet Treat: Package individual cheesecake cups in clear gift boxes with festive ribbons, making them a delightful homemade gift for friends, neighbors, or holiday party hosts who love gourmet desserts.
  • Brunch Dessert Delight: Offer these individual cheesecake cups as a sophisticated sweet ending to a holiday brunch, pairing them with fresh berries or a light sprinkle of candied ginger for extra elegance.

How To Chill And Store Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups

  • Refrigerator Tactics: Store these delightful cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping the texture smooth and flavors vibrant.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire dessert 1-2 days before serving, allowing the spices to meld and intensify the delicious gingerbread profile.
  • Freezing Strategy: Wrap individual cups tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying for best taste and texture.
  • Portion Control Wisdom: Keep portion sizes consistent by using uniform glasses or small mason jars, making it easy to store and serve these individual dessert treats with minimal fuss.
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Creamy Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups Recipe

Creamy Gingerbread Spice Cheesecake Cups


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4.9 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 3 1x

Description

Gourmet no-bake gingerbread spice cheesecake cups blend holiday warmth with creamy richness. Delightful layers of spiced graham cracker crust and silky cream cheese filling invite seasonal celebration.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream, whipped
  • 1 cup (120 g) graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsps granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsps molasses
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 pinch ground cloves
  • Whipped cream
  • Crushed gingersnap cookies
  • Cinnamon sticks (optional)
  • Mini gingerbread men (optional)

Instructions

  1. Crust Preparation: Pulverize graham crackers with sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter into a uniform mixture. Press firmly into serving glasses, creating a solid foundation. Chill while preparing filling.
  2. Cream Cheese Fusion: Blend cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Integrate molasses, vanilla, and warm spices (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves) thoroughly, creating a richly spiced base.
  3. Filling Development: Gently incorporate whipped cream into spiced cream cheese mixture, generating a luxurious, airy texture that maintains decadent flavor complexity.
  4. Assembly: Carefully pour filling into chilled glasses over graham cracker base. Use spatula to create smooth, elegant surface with potential decorative swirls.
  5. Chilling and Setting: Refrigerate dessert for two hours minimum, allowing flavors to meld and filling to solidify completely.
  6. Final Embellishment: Crown each cup with whipped cream. Sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies on top. Optional garnish includes cinnamon stick or miniature gingerbread man for festive presentation.

Notes

  • Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing. Cold cream cheese can create uneven texture and make blending difficult.
  • Control Moisture Balance: Drain excess liquid from whipped cream to prevent watery filling. Use stabilized whipped cream for firmer, more consistent texture that holds shape better.
  • Spice Intensity Adjustment: Customize spice levels by gradually adding warm spices. Start with smaller amounts and taste, allowing you to build complex flavor without overwhelming the dessert.
  • Chilling Technique: Refrigerate cups for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal flavor development and firm setting. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent moisture absorption and maintain fresh taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 21 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
Liam O’Sullivan

Liam O’Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Isabella brings a global spark to the Craft Meats table. Born in Florence and trained at the Apicius International School of Hospitality, she blends classic Italian flavor with modern writing that’s easy to follow and hard to forget. 

Her additional training at the Italian Chef Academy fueled her love for well-crafted dishes, especially ones that spotlight beautiful cuts of meat.

She’s a food writer with heart, and a deep love for storytelling through single recipes. Her goal? To help you cook with more confidence and a little more joy, no matter where you start.

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