Spiced Cheesecake Bars

[PurplePuppy]

SPICED CHEESECAKE BARS




yield 24 2-INCH BARS
prep time 15 MINUTES
cook time 45 MINUTES
additional time 4 HOURS
total time 5 HOURS



INGREDIENTS

FOR THE CRUST:

3 & 1/2 cups (350g) speculaas cookie crumbs (such as Biscoff)*

10 tablespoons (141g) unsalted butter, melted


FOR THE CHEESECAKE FILLING:

16 ounces (454g) cream cheese, at room temperature

3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 & 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom


INSTRUCTIONS

TO MAKE THE CRUST:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9"x 13"x 2" baking pan.


Combine the cookie crumbs and melted butter until thoroughly combined. Transfer to the prepared pan, and spread evenly and firmly in the bottom of the pan.


Bake for 10 minutes. Set aside.


TO MAKE THE CHEESECAKE FILLING:

Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese and sugar until thoroughly combined and smooth.


Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Mix in the spices.


Transfer the batter to the partially baked crust, and spread evenly.


Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are browned and the center appears set.


Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.


Garnish with sweetened whipped cream and more cookies.


NOTES

*The weight of the cookie crumbs may vary, depending on how finely you crush the cookies and the brand you're using. I like to use a food processor to make fine crumbs.

You can also use other cookies, like cinnamon grahams, gingersnaps, etc.

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