Spiced Gingerbread Cheesecake Bites

These delightful spiced gingerbread cheesecake bites offer a perfect balance of creamy richness and warm holiday spices. The soft cheesecake filling pairs beautifully with a crunchy gingerbread crust, making it an ideal dessert for the festive season. The recipe incorporates a touch of pumpkin puree, adding a hint of autumn warmth and a beautiful golden hue. Silky caramel sauce layers between the crust and cheesecake enhance the flavor profile, making each bite memorable. This dessert can be prepared well in advance, as it freezes beautifully, allowing you to focus on enjoying your holiday festivities. It caters to both traditional and adventurous palates, providing a comforting yet unique twist on classic holiday flavors. The gingerbread crust brings a nostalgic spiciness, while the creamy filling adds a luxurious texture reminiscent of crème brûlée. This treat is easily customizable, allowing you to alter the base or spices to suit different preferences or dietary needs. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering or a grand holiday party, these cheesecake bites are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Cheesecake Mixture:

• 450g cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 30g heavy cream
• 5g flour
• 130g sugar
• 2 eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree

Additional:

• Gingerbread for crust and decoration
• Caramel sauce

Preparation Time

Total Time: 500 minutes (including freezing time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by ensuring all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
2. In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and heavy cream. Mix gently with a whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, thoroughly mixing after each addition to incorporate them well.
4. Mix in the pumpkin puree, which will lend a lovely golden color and subtle flavor to the cheesecake.
5. Sift in the flour and sugar, and gently fold them into the mixture. Be mindful not to over-mix to avoid incorporating too much air.
6. Prepare silicone molds by placing them on a baking tray for stability.
7. Fill each mold with the cheesecake mixture, approximately three-quarters full, to allow space for the cheesecake to expand.
8. Preheat your oven to 80°C (176°F).
9. Bake the filled silicone molds in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes.
10. The cheesecakes are done when the edges are firm but the centers are still jiggly.
11. Allow the cheesecakes to cool completely while still in their molds.
12. Wrap the cooled molds with plastic wrap and place them in the freezer for at least 6 hours or overnight.
13. Once frozen, remove cheesecakes from the silicone molds.
14. Prepare gingerbread crusts and decorations while waiting for the cheesecakes to set.
15. Place a dollop of caramel sauce on each crust as a sweet and sticky layer.
16. Gently set each frozen cheesecake onto its crust.
17. Allow the cheesecakes to thaw slightly on their bases, softening them in the process.
18. If you opt for a shortbread crust instead, let the cheesecakes thaw in the fridge before placing them atop the crusts.
19. For a festive touch, bake small gingerbread cookies to use as toppers.
20. Serve your spiced gingerbread cheesecake bites chilled and enjoy the holiday flavors.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-friendly version.
• Texture: To achieve a creamy cheesecake, avoid over-mixing the batter.
• Storage: These cheesecakes can be made ahead of time and kept frozen until needed.

Nutritions

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 20g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute cream cheese and eggs with vegan alternatives.
• Crust Choices: Try using a graham cracker crust for a classic feel.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a warm cup of spiced tea or mulled wine.
• Garnish each bite with freshly whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

Best Places

• Serendipity 3 - Iconic for its grand dessert selections and whimsical ambiance. Location: 225 E 60th St, New York, USA.
• Café Central - Timeless Viennese café known for its traditional pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• El Nacional - Spanish institution offering a variety of culinary experiences under one roof. Location: Passeig de Gràcia, 24 Bis, Barcelona, Spain.
• De Drie Graefjes - Cozy café with American-style homemade desserts. Location: Rokin 130, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Pierre Hermé Paris - Famed patisserie with exquisite macarons and pastries. Location: 86 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Tartine Bakery - Renowned for artisanal bread and sweet treats. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Ottolenghi Notting Hill - Celebrated for vibrant flavors and artistic presentation. Location: 63 Ledbury Rd, London, UK.
• Ladurée - Historic tea salon serving a delightful array of desserts. Location: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Babka Zana - Known for its perfected babka and other sweet bakes. Location: 65 rue Condorcet, Paris, France.
• Café Savoy - Elegant setting with intricate pastries and coffee. Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.