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Easy Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites with Perfect Gingersnap Crust

mini pumpkin cheesecake bites - featured image

These mini pumpkin cheesecake bites feature a crunchy gingersnap crust and a creamy, perfectly spiced pumpkin filling. They’re quick to make, use simple ingredients, and are perfect for fall gatherings or weeknight treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups gingersnap cookie crumbs (about 2025 cookies)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks (optional topping)
  • Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional topping)
  • Extra crushed gingersnaps for garnish (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Make the crust: Place gingersnap cookies in a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs form. Transfer to a medium bowl, add brown sugar and salt, and stir. Pour in melted butter and mix with a fork until every crumb is moistened (like wet sand).
  3. Press the crust into the pan: Scoop about a tablespoon of crust mixture into each mini muffin cup. Use a small glass or your thumb to press it down firmly, making sure the crust comes up slightly on the sides.
  4. Bake the crusts: Bake for 5 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly while you make the filling. Leave the oven on.
  5. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined, scraping down the sides. Add pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Beat on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fill the cups: Spoon the filling into each crust-lined cup, filling almost to the top (leave about 1/8 inch space).
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
  8. Cool completely: Let the pan cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Gently run a knife around the edges of each bite to loosen, then transfer to a plate. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
  9. Add toppings: Just before serving, top each bite with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of extra crushed gingersnaps (optional).

Notes

Room temperature ingredients are crucial for a smooth filling. Do not overmix the filling to avoid cracks. These can be made ahead and taste even better the next day. For gluten-free, use gluten-free ginger cookies. For dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut oil instead of butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini pumpkin cheesecake bites, gingersnap crust, fall dessert, easy cheesecake recipe, pumpkin dessert