Decadent Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe: Holiday Magic in Every Bite

Creamy, rich eggnog cheesecake brings festive magic to your holiday dessert table.

Seasonal spices dance through each silky bite of this indulgent treat.

Winter celebrations feel incomplete without something spectacular and sweet.

Warm cinnamon and nutmeg whisper nostalgic memories of cozy gatherings.

Delicate graham cracker crust provides perfect crumbly contrast to smooth filling.

Sophisticated yet simple, this dessert promises to impress even discerning palates.

You’ll want to savor every luxurious spoonful of this classic celebration centerpiece.

Eggnog Cheesecake Flavor Highlights

• The recipe requires basic baking skills, making it accessible for home bakers of all levels who want to impress without complicated techniques.
• Combines the beloved creamy texture of cheesecake with warm, nostalgic eggnog spices, creating a dessert that appeals to both traditional and adventurous palates.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings since it can be prepared in advance, allowing hosts to spend more time with guests and less time in the kitchen.

Eggnog Cheesecake Ingredients Overview

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds a rich, smooth texture.
• Cinnamon, Sugar: Enhance the flavor and add warmth to the crust.

• Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that creates the smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the tangy cream cheese.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the filling together.
• Eggnog: Brings a festive holiday flavor and creamy consistency to the cheesecake.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that complement the eggnog and create a holiday feel.
• Flour: Helps stabilize the filling and prevent cracking.

• Whipped Cream, Cinnamon: Optional finishing touches that add extra flavor and visual appeal.

How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare The Oven And Pan

Get your oven ready by heating it to 325°F.

Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a light greasing, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Create The Crumbly Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Melted butter
• Ground cinnamon
• Granulated sugar

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Pop it in the oven for 10 minutes to set, then let it cool completely.

Step 3: Craft The Creamy Filling

Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

• Eggnog
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Freshly grated nutmeg
• All-purpose flour

Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Pour the luscious filling over the cooled crust.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes.

The cheesecake is done when the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 5: Chill And Serve

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to help it set.

When ready, release from the springform pan, slice, and serve this holiday delight.

Tips for Decadent Eggnog Cheesecake

• Wrap aluminum foil around the springform pan's edges to prevent over-browning during baking, ensuring a perfectly golden crust without burning.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to create a silky, lump-free cheesecake filling that blends seamlessly and bakes evenly.
• Avoid overbaking by removing the cheesecake when the center is slightly jiggly, and place a shallow pan of water on the bottom oven rack to create humidity during baking.
• This cheesecake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, allowing flavors to develop and making holiday entertaining stress-free and delicious.
• Replace graham crackers with gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free version, or use low-fat cream cheese and alternative milk to create a lighter eggnog cheesecake.

Storing and Reheating Eggnog Cheesecake

• Store covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep cheesecake away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap individual slices or whole cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds at 50% power. Avoid overheating to prevent texture changes.
• Let chilled cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance flavor and soften texture.

Pairing Ideas for Eggnog Cheesecake

• Pair Spiced Rum with Festive Warmth: Spiced rum complements the rich eggnog cheesecake perfectly, enhancing the warm holiday spices and adding a delightful boozy kick that matches the dessert's creamy texture.
• Create Cinnamon Coffee Companion: Brew a hot cinnamon-infused coffee that mirrors the cake's warm spices, cutting through the cheesecake's richness while echoing its festive flavor profile.
• Serve Caramel Whipped Cream Topping: Whip heavy cream with a touch of caramel sauce to create a luxurious topping that adds an extra layer of sweetness and elegance to the eggnog cheesecake.
• Suggest Vanilla Liqueur Drizzle: Gently drizzle vanilla liqueur over each slice, intensifying the dessert's creamy notes and adding a sophisticated adult twist to the holiday treat.

Variations on Eggnog Cheesecake

• Gluten-Free Eggnog Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs. Use certified gluten-free ingredients to ensure safe consumption for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Dairy-Free Holiday Cheesecake: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese alternative. Use coconut milk eggnog and vegan butter for the crust. Replace eggs with silken tofu or commercial egg replacer to maintain creamy texture.
• Low-Sugar Eggnog Cheesecake: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat eggnog. Add extra spices like nutmeg and cinnamon to enhance flavor without additional calories.
• Keto-Friendly Eggnog Cheesecake: Create a crust using crushed pecans and melted butter. Use full-fat cream cheese and replace sugar with erythritol. Add extra heavy cream to increase fat content and maintain ketogenic macronutrient ratios.

FAQs

• Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought eggnog. Choose a high-quality, thick eggnog for the best flavor and texture in your cheesecake.

• How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, bake in a water bath, and let the cheesecake cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating.

• Is it possible to make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake up to 3 days in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

• Can I freeze this eggnog cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Decadent Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Creamy Eggnog Cheesecake blends holiday traditions with rich, velvety dessert magic. Festive spices and smooth cream cheese create a luxurious slice that celebrates winter’s warmest flavors in one delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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Crust Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups (360 ml) graham cracker crumbs
• 0.25 cup (60 ml) melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:

• 3 (8 ounces/226 grams) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 ml) eggnog
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325F (160C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Create the graham cracker crust by blending crumbs with melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the pan’s base, creating an even layer.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes at 325F, then remove and allow to cool completely while maintaining oven temperature.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream the cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth and free of lumps.
5. Incorporate eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure a silky texture.
6. Gently fold in eggnog, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour, stirring until the mixture is uniform and velvety.
7. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly and eliminating any air pockets.
8. Bake for 40-50 minutes, watching for a slight jiggle in the center while edges appear set and slightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
10. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve optimal flavor and texture before serving.

Notes

• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookies for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Use low-fat cream cheese and reduce sugar content to create a lighter, more diet-friendly version of this decadent dessert.
• Prevent cheesecake cracking by placing a water bath underneath while baking, which creates a more humid environment and helps distribute heat evenly.
• Create decorative toppings like whipped cream rosettes, caramel drizzle, or sprinkled nutmeg to enhance the festive holiday presentation.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 32 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg