Gingerbread Cheesecake with Spiced Mousse Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your guests this holiday season (or anytime really), you absolutely have to try this Gingerbread Cheesecake with Spiced Mousse Recipe. It’s one of those desserts that feels both cozy and fancy all at once — like a warm hug wrapped in a silky, spiced cloud. When I first made this, I was blown away by how the gingerbread spices blended with creamy cheesecake and a luscious molasses mousse topping. You’ll find that every bite is rich and comforting, perfect for sharing or just treating yourself.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing the right ingredients can make or break your cheesecake, and I’ve found these work perfectly together — especially the shortbread crumbs for the crust and molasses to keep that deep gingerbread flavor shining.

• Walkers shortbread crumbs: I love using shortbread crumbs for a rich, buttery crust—makes all the difference in texture and flavor.
• Sugar (both brown and regular): The light brown sugar adds warmth, while a touch of plain sugar helps crisp the crust.
• Cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, cloves: These spices are the heart of the gingerbread flavor; fresh ground if possible for the best aroma.
• Butter, melted: Binds the crust crumbs perfectly without making it soggy.
• Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps and get that smooth texture.
• Sour cream: Adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness and keeps the cheesecake creamy.
• Molasses: Don’t skip it — it’s the secret hero giving the cheesecake its classic gingerbread depth.
• Heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar: For whipping the mousse topping and the final whipped cream garnish; be sure it’s cold for best whipping results.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors without stealing the spotlight.
• Flour: Just a touch to help with structure without weighing down the filling.
• Eggs: Added one at a time to prevent curdling and achieve that perfect creamy set.

Variations

I love how versatile this Gingerbread Cheesecake with Spiced Mousse Recipe is. Sometimes I amp up the spice, other times I tone it down for more subtle warmth. Feel free to tweak the spices or try different crust bases — you can make this recipe truly yours!

• Gluten-Free Crust: Swap the shortbread crumbs for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, and use gluten-free flour; still delicious and perfect for gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Version: I haven’t tried it myself, but you could experiment with vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for the mousse, plus a dairy-free crust alternative.
• Extra Spice Kick: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or black pepper for an unexpected depth; I love this twist for winter gatherings.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual servings in a muffin tin lined with cupcake papers — fun for parties and easier portion control!

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake with Spiced Mousse Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Perfect Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment in the bottom and grease the sides well — this helps when it’s time to release the cake. Combine the Walkers shortbread crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter, then press this mixture firmly onto the bottom and just up the sides of the pan. Don’t skip the step of baking the crust for 10 minutes; it gives you that sturdy base and prevents sogginess later on. Once done, let it cool and then wrap the outside of the pan tightly with aluminum foil — this keeps water out during the water bath baking, a trick I discovered that stops the dreaded cracks!

Step 2: Mix Your Cheesecake Filling Gently

Reduce your oven to 300°F (148°C). Grab a large mixing bowl and blend together softened cream cheese, brown sugar, and flour on low speed. I always scrape the bowl sides to make sure everything is well combined with no lumps. Next, add sour cream, molasses, vanilla, and your warm spices — ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves — and mix again until smooth. Now the eggs go in, but slowly, one at a time. This slow addition is a game changer; it prevents air bubbles that cause cracks and keeps your batter silky.

Step 3: Bake in a Water Bath for Creamy Perfection

Pour this gorgeous cheesecake filling over your baked crust, smoothing the top, then set the springform pan inside a larger pan filled halfway with warm water. That water bath method is key — it evenly distributes heat to keep the cheesecake creamy and crack-free. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes. When done, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for 30 minutes. Then, crack the door open slightly and leave it for another 30 minutes; this gradual cooling step is what I learned from experience helps avoid cracks and shrinking edges. After that, chill your cheesecake until firm — preferably overnight.

Step 4: Whip Up the Spiced Molasses Mousse Topping

Once your cheesecake is chilled and set, it’s time for the showstopper mousse. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, molasses, and a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg until stiff peaks form — this might take a bit, but trust me, it’s worth it. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then gently fold in your whipped cream mixture to combine everything without deflating it. Pour this fluffy mousse over the cheesecake, spreading evenly, then chill again for 1-2 hours until firm.

Step 5: Finishing Touches for Presentation

Before serving, whip up some cream with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla to pipe a pretty border around the cheesecake. I love topping mine with cute gingerbread men cookies — it doesn’t just look festive, it brings that gingerbread charm full circle. Then keep refrigerated until you’re ready to slice and enjoy!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake with Spiced Mousse Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a sucker for simplicity here: a few piped swirls of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream plus some adorable gingerbread men cookies around the edges make this cheesecake pop. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon or even finely chopped crystallized ginger on top for that fresh zing. These touches make it look festive and invite everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

To complement the richness, I like serving this cheesecake with a warm spiced apple cider or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side. If you want something lighter, some sliced fresh pears or a tart berry compote provide a lovely contrast to that creamy, spiced dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners, I’ve tried layering mini cheesecakes in glass jars with extra molasses mousse and crumbled gingerbread on top — looks stunning and offers fun, individual portions. Another idea I adore is serving the cheesecake with edible gold leaf or festive fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs for a classy touch that impresses guests without a fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always keep leftover cheesecake tightly covered in the fridge, which keeps it fresh and moist for up to 4 days. Using the original springform pan with a lid helps maintain freshness without the need to transfer slices to another container.

Freezing

This Gingerbread Cheesecake with Spiced Mousse Recipe freezes well! I slice it ahead, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge — the texture holds beautifully, and the flavor is just as fantastic.

Reheating

Since it’s a chilled dessert, I recommend serving it directly from the fridge or after thawing if frozen. If you prefer a softer texture, let slices sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving; avoid microwaving as it can disrupt the creamy texture and mousse topping.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Gingerbread Cheesecake with Spiced Mousse Recipe has become my go-to for holiday celebrations and special gatherings. It strikes that perfect balance of festive spice, creamy richness, and stunning presentation that always impresses friends and family. I know you’ll love making it as much as I do, and trust me—once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe year after year. So grab your mixing bowls, turn on some holiday tunes, and get ready to create a dessert that’s as joyful as it is delicious!

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