If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly blends cozy holiday spices with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, then you simply must try the Gingerbread Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream Recipe. This irresistible treat brings together the warm, nostalgic flavors of gingerbread in a luscious cheesecake body, topped with a dreamy butterscotch sauce and light, airy whipped cream. It’s the kind of dessert that turns any gathering into a celebration and feels like a comforting hug on a plate, making it one of my absolute favorite recipes to share and enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two side-by-side photos of a cooking process on a white marbled surface. On the left, a clear glass bowl contains a mixture with one layer of thick light beige batter at the bottom and a second layer on top of cracked bright yellow eggs, some of the eggs beginning to blend with the batter beneath. On the right, a round baking pan lined with foil, placed in a black baking tray, holds a single smooth pale beige mixture filling the pan evenly. The foil wraps around the edge of the pan with small tape pieces holding it in place. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Gingerbread Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream Recipe plays a star role, combining to create layers of flavor and wonderful textures. From the crisp gingersnap crust that provides the perfect base, to the rich spices that infuse the cheesecake filling, to the smooth butterscotch and fluffy whipped cream on top—each component matters and adds to the magic.

Gingersnap crumbs: Use dry, crispy cookies for a crust that holds together and delivers that perfect ginger snap crunch.
Brown sugar: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that deepens the gingerbread profile.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crust ingredients together and enriches the flavor with creamy goodness.
Cream cheese: Full-fat and brick-style is best for a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling that sets beautifully.
Ground ginger and warm spices: Ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create that classic gingerbread aroma and taste.
Cornstarch: Helps the filling hold its shape with a silky texture.
Molasses: The rich, dark syrup adds an authentic gingerbread sweetness—just avoid blackstrap molasses for best results.
Sour cream: Adds moisture and a touch of tang to balance the spices and sweetness.
Eggs: They provide structure and creaminess when baked.
Butterscotch sauce ingredients: Butter, brown sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt come together to create a luscious topping that’s both sweet and buttery.
Whipping cream and powdered sugar: For the light, fluffy whipped cream that finishes the dessert with a delicate touch.

How to Make Gingerbread Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a 9-inch springform pan. Wrapping the pan securely with an oven bag and several layers of aluminum foil creates a makeshift water bath during baking, preventing cracks and ensuring a creamy finish. Next, crush your gingersnap cookies into fine crumbs and mix them with brown sugar and melted butter until the texture resembles damp sand. Press this fragrant mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form a sturdy, delicious base. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to set it before adding the filling.

Step 2: Create the Gingerbread Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with the sugars and spices until perfectly smooth and creamy. Remember to scrape the bowl periodically so everything mixes evenly—this ensures no lumps and a silky texture. Then, stir in the molasses, sour cream, and vanilla extract, which infuse every bite with that signature warmth and richness. Add the whisked eggs slowly on a low speed to blend without overmixing. Pour this luxurious filling over the pre-baked crust, ready for baking in the gentle water bath you prepared.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

With the springform pan snug in the roasting pan filled with boiling water, place it in the oven for about 50 to 60 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the surface looks set but still has a slight wobble—just like setting pudding but more stable. Once baked, do not rush to remove it; let it cool gradually in the oven with the door cracked open for about 20 minutes, then cool completely before refrigerating for at least six hours or overnight to allow those flavors to meld and the texture to perfect.

Step 4: Prepare the Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream

While the cheesecake chills, make your butterscotch sauce by gently melting butter and brown sugar together on low heat. Once bubbly, slowly add the cream and keep stirring until smooth and thickened. The finishing touch of vanilla and salt perfectly balances the sweetness. For the whipped cream, beat chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar until nice, soft peaks form—this airy topping adds the perfect finish to your overall dessert.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream Recipe

A round cheesecake sits on a white plate with a slightly raised edge. The cake has two distinct layers: a thick, darker brown crust at the bottom and a thicker light brown creamy layer on top. Around the edge on top of the cake, there are swirls of white whipped cream evenly spaced. Each swirl holds a small ginger cookie leaning against it, decorated with white icing dots. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a simple white tiled wall in the background. One broken ginger cookie piece lies on the surface near the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, consider piping rosettes of whipped cream around the cheesecake edges using a star tip, which not only looks elegant but also invites guests to scoop up an extra dollop with each bite. Adding small gingerbread cookies on top of the rosettes ties the whole theme together, creating a feast for both the eyes and the palate. If you want to be extra indulgent, drizzle generous ribbons of the warm butterscotch sauce right before serving—it melts beautifully into each slice and adds a luscious caramel touch.

Side Dishes

This Gingerbread Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream Recipe shines so brightly on its own that it rarely needs accompaniments. However, a cup of spiced chai or hot coffee perfectly complements the warmly spiced dessert and can round out your holiday table wonderfully. For a refreshing contrast, light citrus segments or a simple green salad with tart vinaigrette can help balance the cheesecake’s richness if serving as part of a larger meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve individual cheesecake slices on decorative plates with a drizzle of butterscotch sauce in artistic swirls? You could also offer small ramekins of whipped cream on the side for guests to add as much or as little as they like. Another fun idea is to layer chunks of gingerbread cheesecake in a glass trifle container with whipped cream and butterscotch sauce for a stunning and shareable display. These creative touches will transform this beloved Gingerbread Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream Recipe into an unforgettable centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover cheesecake should be tightly covered and stored in the refrigerator. Wrapped well, it will maintain its creamy texture and remain fresh for up to five days, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy every last delightful bite. Keep the whipped cream and butterscotch sauce stored separately if you want to preserve their texture before serving again.

Freezing

If you’d like to prepare the cheesecake in advance or save some for later, it freezes beautifully. Either freeze whole (without whipped cream) by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and foil, or slice and freeze individual pieces. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor before serving with freshly whipped cream and warm butterscotch sauce.

Reheating

When serving refrigerated or thawed cheesecake slices, you can gently warm the butterscotch sauce on the stove or microwave to bring back that silky flow. The cheesecake itself is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so avoid reheating the cheesecake directly to preserve its creamy texture. Simply add warm sauce and freshly whipped cream for the perfect temperature balance.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While gingersnap cookies give the perfect spicy crunch, you can substitute with graham cracker crumbs or even digestive biscuits if you prefer a milder base. Just be sure they are dry and crisp to hold the crust well.

Is it necessary to bake the cheesecake in a water bath?

Yes, baking in a water bath helps distribute heat evenly and keeps the cheesecake moist, preventing cracks on the surface. Wrapping the pan in foil ensures no water seeps in, making this step essential for the best texture and appearance.

Can I make the butterscotch sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just warm it gently before serving to bring back that irresistible pourable consistency.

What type of molasses should I use?

Use cooking or fancy molasses rather than blackstrap molasses, as the latter is much stronger and can impart a bitter taste. The sweeter varieties help achieve the right gingerbread flavor balance.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Aside from using a water bath, make sure to avoid overmixing the batter, bake at a lower temperature, and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door open before chilling. These techniques reduce cracks and keep the cheesecake beautifully smooth.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm, cozy celebration, this Gingerbread Cheesecake with Butterscotch Sauce and Whipped Cream Recipe is an absolute must-try. It captures everything that makes holiday baking so special—comforting spices, rich creaminess, and indulgent toppings. I promise once you serve this at your next gathering, it will become a beloved staple that everyone asks for again and again. So roll up your sleeves, dive into this recipe, and prepare to impress yourself and your guests with a dessert that’s pure joy.