A Festive Twist on a Classic: Gingerbread Cheesecake with Tofu!
As the holiday season unfolds, it's time to add a special touch to our dessert tables. This December, we bring you a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation: Gingerbread Cheesecake with Tofu. This dessert marries the spicy warmth of gingerbread with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all while incorporating the healthful twist of tofu. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this cheesecake is sure to be a conversation starter!
For the Gingerbread Crust:
1 1/2 cups gingerbread cookies, crushed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp brown sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
1 packed (14 oz) soft tofu, drained and pressed
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
2 eggs
For the Topping:
Whipped cream
Gingerbread cookies
Caramel sauce (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Combine the crushed gingerbread cookies, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a food processor, blend the tofu until smooth.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Mix in the blended tofu, vanilla extract, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended.
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the Cheesecake:
Bake for 40 minutes or until the center is almost set.
Turn off the oven, open the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream, crushed gingerbread cookies, and a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
This Gingerbread Cheesecake with Soft Tofu is not just a treat for the palate but also a nod to healthier choices during the indulgent holiday season. It's the perfect blend of rich, creamy, and spicy, capturing the essence of December’s festive spirit.
