Gingerbread Basque Cheesecake

Chef John's gingerbread Basque cheesecake gives a seasonal twist to the very best method for making cheesecake. It's fast and easy, does not need a crust, and there's a remedy for the nearly-inevitable cracks—just make a few of the bonus piped royal icing snowflakes for the top. For gingerbread lovers and cheesecake lovers alike, this is the creamiest, most delicious combination of your favorites imaginable.