If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly balances spicy warmth and creamy delight, look no further than this Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe. It’s a charming fusion of rich, molasses-scented gingerbread flavors nestled inside a crunchy biscoff cookie crust, all topped with fluffy whipped cream. Whether you’re craving something festive to impress guests or a cozy treat to enjoy yourself, this pie is an absolute showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe is essential, creating layers of flavor and texture that come together seamlessly. From the crisp biscoff cookie crust to the luscious cream cheese filling spiced with ginger and cloves, each element plays a vital role in making this dessert irresistible.
- Biscoff cookies, 8.8 oz (ground to fine crumbs): They form a buttery and crunchy base that holds all the creamy filling perfectly.
- Ground ginger, ¼ tsp: Adds a gentle warmth to the crust that hints at the filling’s spices.
- Unsalted butter, 7 tbsp (melted): Binds the crust crumbs together and adds richness.
- Local hive honey, 1 tbsp (for crust): Lends natural sweetness and a subtle floral note.
- Kosher salt, ½ tsp (diamond crystal brand for crust): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
- Heavy cream, 2 cups (cold): Whipped for topping and folded into the filling to keep it light yet creamy.
- Powdered sugar, 1 cup (sifted): Sweetens the whipped cream topping smoothly.
- Local hive honey, 2 tbsp (for filling): Adds depth and natural sugar that complements molasses.
- Vanilla extract, 2 tsp: Brings out the warm spices and ties the flavors together.
- Kosher salt, ¼ tsp (diamond crystal brand for filling): Balances the sweetness in the filling beautifully.
- Cream cheese, 12 oz (room temperature): Gives the filling a tangy smoothness that contrasts perfectly with the spices.
- Molasses, ¼ cup: The soul of gingerbread, offering robust, smoky sweetness.
- Cinnamon, 1 tsp: Classic warming spice that enhances gingerbread flavor.
- Ground ginger, 1 tsp: Boosts the spicy notes in the filling.
- Kosher salt, ½ tsp (diamond crystal brand for filling spices): Ensures perfect flavor harmony.
- Ground cloves, ¼ tsp: Adds subtle aromatic depth typical of gingerbread treats.
- Dry mustard, ¼ tsp: An unexpected layer of complexity that highlights spices.
- Ground cinnamon, ⅛ tsp (extra): For a final hint of spice in the filling.
- Gingerbread cookies, 7 pieces (for garnish): Adds festive texture and visual appeal.
- Sugared cranberries, ½ cup: Bright, tart, and sweet garnish for a pop of color.
- Fresh rosemary, 1 piece: Provides an herbaceous aroma when paired with star anise.
- Star anise, 3 pieces: Whole spices perfect for seasonally inspired table décor.
How to Make Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Making the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to get things ready. Then, blitz the biscoff cookies in your food processor until they turn into fine crumbs. This will be the base that holds your filling, so you want it uniform. Mixing these crumbs with ground ginger, melted butter, honey, and salt creates a crust that’s crunchy, fragrant, and just a little sweet. Press this mixture evenly into your pie dish’s bottom and sides. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let it cool on a wire rack to set while you move on to the filling.
Step 2: Preparing the Whipped Cream
Whip together cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, honey, vanilla, and salt on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. This luscious whipped cream will be folded into the cream cheese mixture to lighten the filling and also serve as a topping later. Set aside 1½ cups of this whipped cream in a covered container inside the fridge so you’ll have it fresh to finish the pie beautifully.
Step 3: Making the Filling
In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese with molasses, cinnamon, ginger, salt, cloves, and dry mustard until smooth and infused with those signature gingerbread flavors. This rich, spiced filling is what sets this pie apart. Then stir in a quarter of the whipped cream mixture, which will start incorporating air and softness. Carefully fold in half of the remaining whipped cream, then the rest, ensuring the filling stays airy and luscious.
Step 4: Assembling the Pie
Once the crust is cooled, fill it with your creamy gingerbread mixture. Cover and chill the pie overnight in the fridge, or if you’re short on time, pop it in the freezer for at least 4 hours until firm and sliceable. Before serving, spread the reserved whipped cream on top for an indulgent finish.
Step 5: Garnishing Your Pie
Elevate your pie presentation by decorating with gingerbread cookies, sugared cranberries, sprigs of fresh rosemary, and star anise. These garnishes add a festive touch bursting with color and aroma, making your dessert truly irresistible.
How to Serve Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes make every dish special, and with this pie, you can’t go wrong by adding gingerbread cookies and sugared cranberries on top. The cookies lend crunch and an extra hint of gingerbread spice, while the cranberries add a tart sweetness that cuts through the richness. Fresh rosemary and star anise sprigs bring a whimsical, holiday-worthy aroma and visual elegance.
Side Dishes
Pair this pie with a warm cup of chai tea or a lightly spiced latte to play up the warming spices. For a lighter option, serve alongside fresh fruit or a simple vanilla bean ice cream to balance the deep, molasses flavors. Any of these combinations create an inviting and comforting dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this pie in individual glass jars layered with extra whipped cream and crushed gingerbread crumbles for a charming twist. Alternatively, sprinkle edible gold dust over the whipped cream for a party-ready sparkle. Whether plated traditionally or in chic jars, this Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe will dazzle your guests’ eyes and taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pie keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days. Cover it tightly to preserve freshness and prevent the whipped cream topping from drying out. Each slice tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep the pie longer, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
This pie is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating isn’t recommended since the whipped cream topping and creamy filling can lose their delightful texture. Simply let it sit out for 15-20 minutes if your pie comes straight from the fridge before slicing.
FAQs
Can I use a different cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! While biscoff cookies give a wonderful caramelized flavor and crunch, you can substitute graham crackers or ginger snap cookies. Just choose something with a bit of spice or sweetness to complement the filling.
Is it necessary to chill the pie overnight?
Chilling overnight allows the flavors to deepen and the filling to firm up for clean slices. If short on time, freezing the pie for at least 4 hours works well too, but giving it longer enhances taste and texture.
Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps, yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for the filling and a vegan butter alternative for the crust. Just ensure the cookies you use are vegan-friendly.
How long does this pie keep after serving?
Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 4 days. Beyond that, the cream can start to separate, and the crust might lose its crunch.
Can I prepare this pie ahead for holiday entertaining?
Definitely! This Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare the crust and filling a day or two before, then chill until guests arrive. It saves time and fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas well before the celebration.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and approachable, and this Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe fits the bill perfectly. From its crisp, spiced crust to the dreamy, creamy filling, every bite tells a story of cozy gatherings and festive warmth. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how simple it is to make a gingerbread treat that everyone will rave about. Happy baking!
Print
Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 37 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Gingerbread Cream Pie combines the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with a smooth, creamy filling. A crisp biscoff cookie crust infused with ginger and honey provides the perfect base, while a luscious cream cheese and molasses filling is topped with whipped cream and festive garnishes. Perfect for holiday celebrations or any cozy dessert craving.
Ingredients
Crust
- 8.8 oz biscoff cookies, ground to fine crumbs
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- 7 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp local hive honey
- ½ tsp kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand)
Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp local hive honey
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand)
Filling
- 12 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand)
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp dry mustard
- ⅛ tsp ground cinnamon
Garnish
- 7 gingerbread cookies
- ½ cup sugared cranberries
- 1 piece fresh rosemary
- 3 pieces star anise
Instructions
- Making the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Blend the biscoff cookies in a food processor on high speed until you achieve fine crumbs. In a medium bowl, stir together the cookie crumbs, ground ginger, melted butter, honey, and salt until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a pie dish. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, then cool the crust on a wire rack while preparing the filling.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a medium bowl, using an electric hand mixer on medium-high speed, beat the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until soft peaks form. Remove 1½ cups of this whipped cream, place it in an airtight container, and refrigerate until needed for topping.
- Making the Filling: In a separate medium bowl, blend the room temperature cream cheese, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, salt, cloves, and dry mustard using an electric hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl and stir in ¼ of the whipped cream mixture from step 2 until combined. Then gently fold in half of the remaining whipped cream, followed by the rest, ensuring a light and airy filling.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the gingerbread cream filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top. Chill the pie overnight in the refrigerator or freeze for at least 4 hours to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the pie with the reserved whipped cream from the airtight container. Decorate the pie with gingerbread cookies, sugared cranberries, fresh rosemary, and star anise for a festive presentation.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- If you prefer a firmer filling, freezing the pie for 4 hours is ideal.
- The sugared cranberries and fresh rosemary add a beautiful seasonal touch but can be substituted with any preferred festive garnishes.
- Use Diamond Crystal kosher salt for accurate salt measurements, as it is less dense than other brands.
- Allow the pie to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving if taken from the freezer for optimal texture.
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