These gingerbread bites are soft, tender, and perfectly spiced mini treats that capture all the cozy flavors of classic gingerbread in a bite-sized form. Finished with a smooth cream cheese glaze, they’re festive, comforting, and ideal for holiday baking or anytime you’re craving something warm and sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These gingerbread bites are quick to make, easy to serve, and full of rich seasonal flavor. The blend of warm spices creates a classic gingerbread taste without being overpowering, while the Greek yogurt keeps the texture light and moist. Their small size makes them perfect for gatherings, dessert trays, or a simple sweet snack with coffee or tea. The cream cheese glaze adds just the right balance of sweetness and tang, bringing everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the gingerbread bites
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
1/4 cup molasses
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the cream cheese glaze
1 ounce cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
2 to 3 tablespoons half and half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and generously spray a mini muffin tin with nonstick spray. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, egg, egg yolk, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, divide the batter evenly among the mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.

Bake for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the tops are set and spring back lightly when pressed. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring the bites to a wire rack to cool completely.

To make the glaze, whisk together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of half and half, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. If needed, add additional half and half a teaspoon at a time until the glaze is pourable.

Once the gingerbread bites are fully cooled, dip the tops into the glaze and return them to the wire rack. Let the glaze set before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: approximately 28 bites

Prep time: 25 minutes
Bake time: 10 to 11 minutes
Cooling and glazing time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 55 minutes

Variations

You can add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a slightly sweeter twist.
For a citrus note, add a small amount of orange zest to the batter.
If you prefer a thinner glaze, increase the half and half slightly and drizzle instead of dipping.
For extra spice, add a pinch of ground cardamom or extra ginger.

Storage/Reheating

Store the gingerbread bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. These bites do not require reheating, but you can warm unglazed bites slightly if desired.

FAQs

Can I make these gingerbread bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the bites a day in advance and glaze them the day you plan to serve.

Do I need a mini muffin tin?

Yes, a mini muffin tin works best to achieve the bite-sized shape and even baking.

Can I freeze gingerbread bites?

You can freeze the unglazed bites for up to two months. Thaw completely before glazing.

What makes these bites soft and moist?

The combination of Greek yogurt, oil, and molasses helps keep the texture tender and moist.

Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?

Yes, but dark brown sugar provides a deeper, richer gingerbread flavor.

Is the glaze necessary?

The bites are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds extra sweetness and balance.

Can I use a different oil?

Yes, a neutral oil such as sunflower or avocado oil will work well.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

They are done when the tops are set and gently spring back when pressed.

Can I make these without molasses?

Molasses is essential for classic gingerbread flavor, so it’s not recommended to omit it.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily for parties or holiday baking.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Bites with Cream Cheese Glaze are a cozy, festive treat that’s simple to prepare and full of classic holiday flavor. Their soft texture, warm spices, and creamy glaze make them perfect for sharing or enjoying as a small indulgence during the colder months. Whether for a celebration or a quiet moment with a warm drink, these bites are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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