Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe

There's something magical about the creamy, spiced flavor of eggnog, and when it's transformed into a cheesecake, the holiday season feels like it's right around the corner. This Eggnog Cheesecake blends the best parts of a holiday classic with a rich, smooth cheesecake, making it a perfect addition to any festive gathering.

The first time I made this cheesecake, it quickly became a must-have at our holiday table. Its lush texture, paired with that unmistakable hint of nutmeg, makes each bite pure holiday bliss. Let's dive into this cozy, crowd-pleasing recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Cheesecake

Get ready for a dessert that brings the holiday spirit to life. This Eggnog Cheesecake isn’t just delicious – it’s a perfect treat to elevate any seasonal celebration.

First, the flavors are unmistakably festive. This cheesecake is infused with rich eggnog, warm cinnamon, and nutmeg, capturing that comforting holiday vibe we all crave in winter.

It's also incredibly simple to prepare for a cheesecake. With easy-to-follow steps and straightforward ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery.

This cheesecake is also a great make-ahead dessert. Since it needs time to chill, you can prepare it a day in advance and let it set overnight, giving you one less thing to worry about on the day of your gathering.

And if you love a creamy cheesecake with a buttery crust, this recipe will not disappoint. With a rich filling and crumbly graham cracker crust, this cheesecake offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Eggnog Cheesecake lies in its few, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in achieving that classic cheesecake texture and holiday flavor.

• Graham Cracker Crust: This base gives the cheesecake a slightly crunchy, buttery foundation. You can use store-bought graham cracker crumbs or make your own by pulsing graham crackers in a food processor. For an extra hint of holiday flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon.
• Eggnog: The star of this dessert, eggnog, brings a creamy richness and warm spices to the cheesecake. Full-fat eggnog works best for this recipe, as it creates the ideal texture and flavor. If you're using homemade eggnog, make sure it’s thick and creamy.
• Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a smooth and rich texture. Make sure it's at room temperature before starting, as this prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth filling.
• Spices – Nutmeg and Cinnamon: These add that iconic holiday warmth to the cheesecake. A dash of freshly grated nutmeg brings out the flavors of the eggnog, and a sprinkle of cinnamon enhances the coziness of each bite.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors, balancing the richness of the eggnog and cream cheese with a hint of sweetness.

In addition to these ingredients, you’ll need a 9-inch springform pan to create that perfect cheesecake shape and allow easy removal once it’s fully set.

How to Make This Eggnog Cheesecake

Creating this holiday-worthy Eggnog Cheesecake is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to bring this festive dessert to life.

1. Prepare the Crust: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of cinnamon. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form a crust. Bake for about 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it's smooth and creamy. Add sugar and continue to mix until well incorporated. Slowly pour in the eggnog, beating until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Finally, add vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon, blending until the filling is smooth and aromatic.
3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45-50 minutes. The cheesecake should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool slowly for about an hour.
4. Chill and Set: After it has cooled in the oven, move the cheesecake to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to achieve the best texture and allow the flavors to develop fully.

Once the cheesecake is set, garnish with a light dusting of nutmeg or a dollop of whipped cream before serving for that extra festive touch.

Storage Options

This Eggnog Cheesecake stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for prepping in advance.

• In the Refrigerator: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and it will keep well for up to 5 days. For best results, leave off any garnishes until you're ready to serve.
• In the Freezer: If you’d like to make it well in advance, freeze the cheesecake by wrapping it in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

To reheat individual slices, place them on a plate and let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This Eggnog Cheesecake is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are a few fun ways to make it your own:

• Alcohol-Free Version: If you prefer a non-alcoholic cheesecake, simply use an alcohol-free eggnog. The flavor will be just as delightful.
• Spiced Cookie Crust: Try replacing the graham cracker crust with gingersnap or speculoos cookie crumbs. This adds a spicy, festive twist that pairs beautifully with the eggnog filling.
• Lightened-Up Option: Swap full-fat cream cheese with a lighter version, and use low-fat eggnog. The texture may be slightly different, but it still results in a deliciously creamy cheesecake.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual eggnog cheesecakes by using a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. Reduce the baking time to around 20 minutes, or until the centers are just set.
• Add a Topping: Consider a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of candied pecans, or a layer of whipped cream to enhance the flavor and make it even more indulgent.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations and make this cheesecake a cherished addition to your holiday traditions. Once you try it, this Eggnog Cheesecake is sure to become a festive favorite year after year!

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