24ouncescream cheese, softened to room temperature
1cupsgranulated sugar
3largeeggs
1cupssour cream
1tablespoonvanilla extract
2teaspoonsground ginger
1teaspoonground cinnamon
0.25teaspoonground nutmeg
0.25cupsbrewed espresso, cooled to room temperature
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed gingerbread cookies with melted butter. Stir the mixture until all the cookie crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
Form the Base: Press the gingerbread crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure it’s compact to hold its shape upon serving. Set this aside.
Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Incorporate the Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar to the cream cheese mixture, continuing to mix on medium speed until well blended.
Add the Eggs: Introduce the eggs one at a time into the mixture, mixing on low speed just until each egg is incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain a smooth texture.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cooled espresso. Mix until everything is just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Pour the Batter: Carefully pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared gingerbread crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula if necessary.
Bake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes. The center should appear set but still have a slight jiggle when shaken gently.
Cool Gradually: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracking.
Chill: Once cooled, take the cheesecake out of the oven. Cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if time allows, to ensure it sets fully.
Serve: After chilling, carefully release and remove the sides of the springform pan. Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake into 12 equal pieces for serving.
Notes
For an extra festive touch, serve with whipped cream and a mini gingerbread cookie.