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Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake with Maple Frosting Recipe

Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake with Maple Frosting Recipe

Creamy Gingerbread Cheesecake with Maple Frosting is a perfect blend of cozy spices and velvety texture. This dessert features a smooth cheesecake base infused with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and molasses, all atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with a luscious maple frosting, it combines holiday warmth with rich indulgence, making it ideal for festive occasions or any special gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 6 tablespoons melted butter

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs

Maple Frosting

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter until combined. Firmly press the mixture into the base of a springform pan. Chill the crust while preparing the filling to ensure it firms up.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add molasses, spices (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), vanilla extract, and sugar. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing gently to keep the batter airy but well combined.
  3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust. Place the pan wrapped in foil in a water bath. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 60 minutes until edges are set but the center is slightly wobbly. Let cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar.
  4. Prepare Maple Frosting: Whip softened butter with powdered sugar and pure maple syrup until light and creamy. Adjust sweetness or maple intensity to preference.
  5. Frost and Chill: Once the cheesecake is completely cooled and set, spread the maple frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate for at least a few hours to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and butter for smooth batter and frosting without lumps.
  • Mix eggs in gently to maintain a light, creamy texture and avoid cracks.
  • Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking and ensure even baking.
  • Cool cheesecake gradually in oven with the door slightly open before refrigerating to avoid sudden temperature changes.
  • Use pure maple syrup for the frosting to achieve the best natural sweetness and flavor depth.
  • Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator and consume within 4-5 days for optimal freshness.
  • Freeze un-frosted cheesecake wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before frosting.
  • Enjoy the cheesecake cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread cheesecake, maple frosting, holiday dessert, creamy cheesecake, spiced cheesecake