Delicious no-bake gingerbread cheesecake cups topped with whipped cream

No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups are the perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you crave something sweet with a hint of spice. These individual desserts are easy to make, don’t require baking, and they bring the warm flavors of gingerbread right into a creamy cheesecake. Plus, they are fun to serve and enjoy!

How to Make No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups

Ingredients:

  • Handheld mixer
  • Spatula
  • Heat-proof bowl
  • Cupcake tray
  • Paper cupcake liners
  • 155 grams white baking chocolate
  • 130 grams cream cheese, softened
  • 70 grams unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 45 grams sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/16 teaspoon sea salt
  • 200 grams graham cookie crumb
  • 48 grams brown sugar
  • 90 grams unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions:

  1. Melt the butter in the microwave. Heat it on medium at 15-second intervals until fully melted.
  2. Mix the melted butter with the graham cracker crumbs, spices, lemon zest, and sugar until everything is well combined.
  3. Evenly distribute the graham crust mixture into each cupcake cavity lined with paper cupcake liners, filling them halfway. Press down to compact the crust well so it won’t fall apart easily.
  4. Place the tray in the fridge to set while you make the cheesecake filling.
  5. In a heat-proof bowl, add the white chocolate and set it over a pot of boiling water without letting the bowl touch the water. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted. Set it aside to cool to room temperature.
  6. Soften the cream cheese in the microwave for about 10 seconds until it’s spreadable.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, whip the room temperature butter until fluffy.
  8. Make sure the cream cheese is not hot and then add it to the butter. Whip them together until just mixed.
  9. Add the remaining ingredients into the butter-cream cheese mixture. Gently fold everything together until it’s well combined.
  10. Evenly distribute the gingerbread cheesecake mixture into the cupcake tray cavities filled with the crust.
  11. Place the tray in the freezer for 15 minutes to set. (The liners may stick to the tray.)
  12. After 15 minutes, move the tray to the fridge for another 15 minutes before removing from the tray. For the best texture, chill in the fridge for at least one hour.
  13. Gently use a butter knife to pry out the cheesecake from the tray and remove the liners. Before serving, top with whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.
  14. No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups can be kept in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days without losing their great taste and texture. Enjoy!

How to Serve No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups

Serve these delightful cups chilled. Top each cup with whipped cream and sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for an extra festive touch. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or just a cozy night in.

How to Store No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups

Store any leftover cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep them covered so they don’t absorb any other smells from the fridge.

Tips to Make No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups

  • Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth filling.
  • For a stronger flavor, you can add a bit more of the spices if you like.
  • Be patient when melting the chocolate to ensure it doesn’t burn.
  • Press down the crust firmly to help it hold together when serving.

Variation

You can customize these cheesecake cups by adding your favorite toppings, such as crushed nuts, caramel drizzle, or even chocolate shavings. If you want to make them a bit healthier, consider using a low-fat cream cheese option!

FAQs

1. Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, you can try flavored cream cheese for different tastes! Just keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor of the cheesecake.

2. Can I freeze the cheesecake cups?
While these cups can be frozen, it’s best to enjoy them fresh from the fridge. If you freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and they should last up to 2 months.

3. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Just be sure to check that the other ingredients are also dairy-free.