Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe – Creamy and Festive Delight

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by Clara Harper

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Imagine a smooth, creamy slice of eggnog cheesecake that melts in your mouth and transports you to a cozy holiday scene. The sweet aroma of nutmeg and vanilla wafts through the air as you take a bite, sending your taste buds into a joyous spiral of flavor. Yes, my friends, this is not just any ordinary dessert; this is the eggnog cheesecake that dreams are made of.

Eggnog Cheesecake Slice
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Every holiday gathering at my house feels incomplete without this delightful treat. The first time I served it during a family Christmas dinner, everyone fell silent—mouths full and eyes wide with delight. It was like I had magically transformed our living room into a festive bakery.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This eggnog cheesecake is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor impact.
  • Its festive flavors make it an instant crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.
  • Visually stunning with its creamy texture and spiced topping, it adds elegance to your dessert table.
  • Perfect as an after-dinner treat or festive snack throughout the day.

I’ll never forget the time my cousin tried to sneak a second slice when he thought no one was watching—classic family moments.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: These provide a buttery base; opt for finely crushed crumbs for better texture.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melting this will bind your crust together; be sure it’s melted but not bubbling hot!
  • Granulated Sugar: This sweetens both the crust and filling; using fine sugar helps blend everything smoothly.
  • Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing; nothing beats Philly cream cheese!
  • Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature; they help create a rich texture in the filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth; skip imitation for best results.
  • Eggnog: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade variety; it brings all the festive flavors together.
  • Ground Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg provides superior flavor; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
  • Whipped Cream (for garnish): Optional but recommended for an extra touch of indulgence!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grab a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release later.

Create the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan.

Bake the Crust: Place your crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar while mixing until well blended.

Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add eggs one by one into your cream cheese mixture. Mix gently after each addition to avoid overbeating. Then stir in vanilla extract and eggnog until everything is combined.

Bake Your Cheesecake: Pour your filling over the cooled crust and smooth out with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.

Cool & Chill Your Cheesecake: Remove from oven and let it cool in the pan before transferring to fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor development.

Now you have an irresistible eggnog cheesecake ready to impress anyone who crosses your threshold! Celebrate those cozy moments with family around this delightful dessert—it’s bound to become a cherished tradition just like mine!

You Must Know

  • This eggnog cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert, blending creamy textures with festive spices.
  • The flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon evoke warmth, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering.
  • Its rich taste delights everyone, turning even the most serious guests into dessert enthusiasts.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the crust before mixing the filling. Bake the crust while you blend together the cheesecake ingredients for a smooth texture and even baking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different types of cream cheese or sweeteners to adjust flavors. Add chocolate chips or crushed gingerbread cookies for extra excitement in every bite.

Storing & Reheating

Store eggnog cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For best taste, serve cold, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always mix your cheesecake batter slowly to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking.
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother mixture.
  • Allow your cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating to set properly without condensation problems.

Sharing this eggnog cheesecake recipe reminds me of my first holiday dinner party where I served it! Everyone was raving about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use a different flavor of cheesecake?

Absolutely! Try swapping eggnog with pumpkin spice or vanilla for unique variations.

How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Mix gently and bake in a water bath to keep moisture levels balanced throughout cooking.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Yes, use almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers as alternatives for a delicious gluten-free crust.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Eggnog Cheesecake Slice

Eggnog Cheesecake


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  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Description

Eggnog cheesecake is a luscious, creamy dessert that embodies the festive spirit of the holiday season in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup eggnog
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.
  4. Beat cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix well.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and eggnog until fully combined.
  6. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Allow to cool in the pan before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Notes

  •  For variations, try adding chocolate chips or crushed gingerbread cookies into the filling.
  •  Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (119g)
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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