Eggnog Gingersnap Cheesecake Bars

If you are looking for a dessert that combines holiday cheer, cozy flavors, and a touch of elegance, these Eggnog Gingersnap Cheesecake Bars are exactly what you need. Imagine the warm spice of gingersnap cookies, the creamy richness of cheesecake, and the festive hint of eggnog, all in a bar you can slice and serve with ease. Each bite is creamy, spiced, and comforting, and the garnishes of whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and a hint of thyme make it feel like a dessert straight out of a holiday bakery. Trust me, you are going to fall in love with these.

Recipe Origin

These cheesecake bars are a seasonal twist on classic cheesecake, inspired by the flavors of holiday eggnog and spiced gingersnap cookies. Cheesecake has always been a dessert favorite, and combining it with festive spices and eggnog creates a rich, aromatic, and indulgent treat perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or special occasions.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make these bars, you’ll need a food processor or rolling pin for crushing the cookies, a mixing bowl for the cheesecake filling, an electric mixer or whisk for combining ingredients, a baking dish, a spatula, and measuring cups. Simple tools, yet they deliver a show-stopping dessert.

Why You’ll Love Eggnog Gingersnap Cheesecake Bars

This recipe is about more than just dessert; it’s about creating something special that tastes like the holidays in every bite.

Festive and Flavorful: The warm spices of gingersnap cookies paired with eggnog and nutmeg make these bars instantly seasonal and comforting.

Easy to Make: No need for a springform pan or complicated crusts. Just press, mix, bake, and slice. Perfect for busy holiday schedules or casual get-togethers.

Versatile: These bars are perfect for dessert tables, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

Customizable: You can add extra nutmeg or cinnamon, swirl in caramel, or even add chocolate chips to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: Cheesecake fans and holiday lovers alike will rave over these bars. They are creamy, spiced, and sweet, hitting all the right notes.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the batter. Press the gingersnap crust firmly into the pan for a sturdy base. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for clean edges. Garnish just before serving to keep the whipped cream fresh and the berries vibrant.

Ingredients in Eggnog Gingersnap Cheesecake Bars

Here’s what makes these bars truly irresistible.

Gingersnap Cookie Crumbs: Provide a spiced, crunchy base with a deep ginger flavor that pairs beautifully with creamy cheesecake.

Salted Butter: Helps bind the cookie crumbs into a firm crust and adds richness.

Cream Cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer. Softened cream cheese gives a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Sugar and Flour: Sweeten the cheesecake and help it hold together for clean slices.

Eggnog: Adds that festive flavor, a hint of creaminess, and a touch of holiday magic.

Vanilla and Nutmeg: Enhance the richness of the eggnog and cheesecake, giving it depth and aroma.

Eggs: Essential for structure and the creamy texture of cheesecake.

Whipped Cream, Raspberries, and Thyme: Garnish that adds freshness, color, and a touch of elegance.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s make these holiday cheesecake bars step by step.

Prep the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Combine gingersnap cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to form an even crust.

Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and flour until smooth and creamy. Add eggnog, vanilla, and nutmeg, mixing until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time until the batter is uniform.

Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake batter over the pressed gingersnap crust, spreading evenly with a spatula.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars creamy.

Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set fully.

Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and a sprig of thyme for a festive and beautiful presentation. Slice into squares and enjoy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 bars
Calories per serving: Approximately 280-320
Preparation Time Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes

How to Serve Eggnog Gingersnap Cheesecake Bars

These bars are perfect as a holiday dessert or anytime you want something festive and indulgent.

With Coffee or Tea: Serve alongside a warm beverage for a cozy dessert experience.

At Holiday Gatherings: Perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, or festive brunches.

As a Gift: Wrap individually in parchment paper and ribbon for a sweet homemade treat to share.

For Special Occasions: Garnish creatively with extra whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep Ahead: Bake a day in advance and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld.

Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep garnishes separate until serving for best presentation.

Freeze: These bars freeze well. Wrap individually or in the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Variations to Try

Add a layer of caramel or chocolate ganache on top before baking. Sprinkle crushed gingersnaps over the whipped cream for added texture. Use cinnamon instead of nutmeg for a slightly different holiday spice profile.

Additional Tips

For clean slices, run a knife under hot water and wipe it dry before each cut. Make sure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps. Press the crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when slicing.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these bars without eggnog?
A1: Yes, you can substitute with milk or cream and a teaspoon of rum extract for similar flavor.

Q2: Can I use store-bought gingersnap crumbs?
A2: Absolutely, they work perfectly and save time.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?
A3: You can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk instead of eggnog.

Q4: Can these bars be frozen?
A4: Yes, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Q5: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A5: Yes, bake and refrigerate up to 1 day in advance. Add garnishes just before serving.

Q6: Can I add other spices?
A6: Yes, cinnamon, allspice, or cloves can enhance the holiday flavor.

Q7: Can I make mini bars instead of a full pan?
A7: Yes, use a muffin tin to make individual cheesecake bites, adjusting baking time to 20-25 minutes.

Q8: How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
A8: Avoid overmixing and overbaking. Let the bars cool gradually at room temperature before chilling.

Q9: Can I use frozen raspberries?
A9: Fresh raspberries are best for presentation, but thawed frozen berries work if needed.

Q10: Can I garnish with something else besides thyme?
A10: Yes, shaved chocolate, crushed gingersnaps, or candied nuts also work beautifully.

Conclusion

Eggnog Gingersnap Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of festive flavor, creamy texture, and cozy holiday spirit. They are simple to make, visually stunning, and guaranteed to delight anyone lucky enough to take a bite. Whether for a holiday party, dessert table, or special treat at home, these bars bring warmth, sweetness, and spice to every occasion. Enjoy the creamy cheesecake, spiced gingersnap crust, and festive toppings in each indulgent bite. Once you try these, they will quickly become a holiday favorite you will return to year after year.

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