Introduction
Embrace the spirit of the holidays with a delightful twist on classic flavors! This Gingerbread Cream Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a cozy hug of festive flavors wrapped in a creamy filling. The rich spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg dance together, creating a comforting warmth that will remind you of crisp winter days and the sweet aroma of gingerbread baking in the oven. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply indulging yourself, this pie is sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup gingerbread cookies, crushed
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Additional crushed gingerbread cookies, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Continue beating until stiff peaks form, creating a luscious whipped filling.
- Gently fold in the molasses and crushed gingerbread cookies until everything is beautifully combined, ensuring each bite is filled with flavor.
- Carefully spoon the gingerbread cream filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This allows the filling to set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Just before serving, generously top the pie with fluffy whipped cream and sprinkle additional crushed gingerbread cookies on top for a lovely, festive touch.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh spices and high-quality gingerbread cookies. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. If you prefer a lighter dessert, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping while still keeping the rich ginger flavor.
Cooking Techniques
When whipping the cream, ensure that your bowl and beaters are chilled for optimal volume and stability. Folding the molasses and crushed cookies into the whipped mixture should be done gently to maintain the light texture of the filling. A pre-baked pie crust can be made from scratch or purchased, depending on your preference and time constraints.
FAQ
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can use a mixture of honey and brown sugar for a similar flavor profile, though it will slightly alter the final taste.
Conclusion
This Gingerbread Cream Pie is the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, making it a standout dessert for any gathering. The velvety cream filling, paired with the warm spices of gingerbread, creates a sweet ending to any meal. Bring this pie to your next holiday celebration, and watch as everyone gathers for a slice of this cozy, creamy goodness. Enjoy the smiles and the warm compliments that are sure to follow!