Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances festive spices with a creamy, indulgent texture. The cookie base is easy to press into the pan, and the no-bake cheesecake layer comes together quickly. Once chilled, the bars slice beautifully, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or holiday dessert tables. They’re simple, flavorful, and always a hit.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Cookie Base:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup margarine, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup molasses
1 tablespoon water

Filling:
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
6 tablespoons molasses
2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
3 cups whipped topping (optional)
2 tablespoons whipped topping, or to taste (optional)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). For the cookie base, I sift the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt together in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, I cream the softened margarine and white sugar until light and fluffy. I beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses and water. I gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

I press the dough evenly into a 9×13-inch pan, making sure it covers the entire bottom. I bake it for 25–30 minutes, until lightly browned, and let it cool completely.

For the filling, I beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth. I add the molasses, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, scraping the sides of the bowl, until the mixture is completely blended. If I’m using whipped topping, I gently fold in 3 cups until the filling is light and creamy. I spread the filling over the cooled cookie base, cover the pan with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Before serving, I garnish the bars with the remaining whipped topping if I want an extra touch.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 24 bars. It requires about 25 minutes of prep time, 25 minutes of baking time, and at least 4 hours of chilling, for a total of about 4 hours 50 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes replace the margarine with butter for a richer base. If I want a stronger spice profile, I add a pinch more ginger or cinnamon. For a less sweet topping, I fold in stabilized whipped cream instead of whipped topping. Drizzling caramel or white chocolate over the bars also adds a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

I refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to two months; I thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The texture stays creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use butter instead of margarine?

Yes, I substitute an equal amount of softened butter for a richer flavor.

Can I make these without whipped topping?

Yes, I use stabilized whipped cream or leave it out for a denser cheesecake layer.

How do I know the cookie base is done?

It should look lightly browned and feel set in the center.

Can I use dark molasses?

Yes, it gives a deeper, richer flavor.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, I often prepare them the day before so they have time to chill fully.

Can I freeze the bars?

Yes, they freeze well as long as they’re wrapped tightly.

Can I reduce the spices?

Yes, I adjust the spice levels to suit my preference.

Why is my filling too soft?

It may need additional chilling time or less whipped topping.

Can I add toppings?

Crushed gingersnaps, caramel drizzle, or white chocolate shavings work beautifully.

Can I make a smaller batch?

Yes, I halve the recipe and use an 8×8-inch pan.

Conclusion

I love making these Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars because they combine the nostalgic flavor of gingerbread with the smooth indulgence of cheesecake. They’re easy to prepare, beautifully spiced, and perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy winter gatherings. Every slice delivers rich, creamy, festive flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.