Signature Recipe
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with Gingersnap Crust
Individual pumpkin cheesecakes with a crunchy gingersnap crust, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of pumpkin baking in the oven. These delightful mini cheesecakes capture the essence of fall with each luscious bite. Featuring a creamy pumpkin filling that’s perfectly spiced, they offer a warm embrace reminiscent of cozy gatherings and festive celebrations. The addition of gingersnap cookies not only provides a delightful crunch but also infuses the entire dessert with a hint of warmth and spice that pairs beautifully with the rich cream cheese base.
The preparation begins with the foundation of these individual treats: a crunchy gingersnap crust that is both simple and satisfying. Crushed gingersnap cookies, combined with melted unsalted butter, create a base that is both flavorful and sturdy, ready to hold the creamy filling. Once you’ve pressed this mixture into your mini cheesecake pans, the stage is set for the star of the show—the smooth blend of cream cheese and pumpkin puree. Stir in granulated sugar, and you’ll find yourself entranced by the velvety texture and rich, vibrant color of the mixture, which is enhanced by the warm spices typical of the season.

After a short time in the oven, the cheesecakes will emerge with a gentle jiggle, promising a decadently rich experience. Once cooled, a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon transform these treats into a visually stunning dessert that invites indulgence. Each bite of these mini pumpkin cheesecakes, with their contrasting textures and harmonious flavors, is sure to evoke fond memories and warm smiles, making them the perfect addition to your fall dessert repertoire. Whether shared at a gathering or savored alone with a cup of coffee, these delightful cheesecakes are bound to become a beloved tradition.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes with Gingersnap Crust
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 1 cup gingersnap cookies (crushed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (for topping)
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, combine crushed gingersnap cookies and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Press the gingersnap mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the gingersnap crust in each muffin cup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the centers are set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
- Once chilled, top each cheesecake with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
General Notes
- Makes 12 mini cheesecakes
- Individual pumpkin cheesecakes with a crunchy gingersnap crust, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.