No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups
These No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups are the perfect festive dessert, combining the classic flavors of gingerbread with the creamy richness of cheesecake – all without turning on the oven.
Every holiday season, my kitchen fills with the scents of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
This recipe came to life one snowy evening when I craved cheesecake but couldn’t bear the thought of waiting hours for it to bake.
I combined my love for gingerbread and cheesecake into these adorable cups, and they’ve been a family favorite ever since.
Why You’ll Love This
- No oven required: Perfect for busy days or when you want to keep the kitchen cool.
- Quick to prepare: You can whip these up in just 20 minutes.
- Perfectly portioned: Individual cups make serving easy and mess-free.
- Holiday flavors: The warm spices and creamy texture scream festive cheer.
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 1 cup crushed gingerbread cookies
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
- Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Crushed gingerbread cookies or holiday sprinkles
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix crushed gingerbread cookies and melted butter until combined. Divide the mixture evenly into serving cups and press down to form a crust.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks and set aside.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and ginger, and mix until well combined.
- Fold in the whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until no streaks remain.
- Assemble the cups: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the crust in each cup.
- Add toppings: Garnish with whipped cream, crushed gingerbread cookies, or sprinkles.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature cream cheese: This ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
- Don’t overmix the whipped cream: Gently folding preserves its airy texture.
- Prep ahead: These cups can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for parties.
- Choose the right cups: Small mason jars or clear dessert cups work great for presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Approximate per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 3g
Common Questions
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free gingerbread cookies for the crust to make this dessert suitable for gluten-free diets.
2. How long can I store these cups? They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
3. Can I freeze these cheesecake cups? While the texture may slightly change, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
4. What can I use instead of gingerbread cookies? Crushed graham crackers or speculoos cookies are great alternatives.
With these No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups, you’ll bring a touch of festive magic to any occasion.
Wishing you a season filled with love, laughter, and delicious desserts!