Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe for Festive Holiday Magic

Crafting a delectable eggnog cheesecake brings festive cheer to any holiday gathering.

Creamy textures and warm spices dance together in this irresistible dessert.

Winter celebrations suddenly feel more magical with each decadent slice.

Rich flavors of nutmeg and vanilla complement the smooth cream cheese base.

Seasonal ingredients merge into a luxurious treat that everyone will adore.

Holiday memories sparkle when you share this indulgent cheesecake around the table.

One bite promises to become your new favorite festive tradition.

Eggnog Cheesecake That Tastes Like The Holidays

Eggnog Cheesecake That Tastes Like The Holidays
  • Celebrate Holiday Flavors: Capture the essence of Christmas in every creamy bite with this festive eggnog cheesecake that transforms traditional dessert into a seasonal masterpiece.
  • Time-Efficient Delight: Preparation takes under 30 minutes, with a straightforward baking process that allows busy home cooks to craft a luxurious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Versatile enough for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or potluck events, this cheesecake offers a delightful twist on classic desserts that will impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings.

Eggnog Cheesecake Full Ingredient List

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a classic, sweet base for the cheesecake with a nice crumbly texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and helps bind the crumbs.
  • Ground Nutmeg: Brings a warm, aromatic spice that complements the eggnog flavor.
  • Melted Butter: Helps hold the crust together and adds rich flavor.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The main component that creates the creamy, smooth cheesecake texture. Best when softened at room temperature.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the tangy cream cheese.
  • Eggnog: Adds signature holiday flavor and creamy consistency to the cheesecake.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake and prevent cracking.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the filling together.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with its sweet, aromatic profile.
  • Ground Nutmeg: Adds a classic eggnog spice note to the cheesecake filling.

Eggnog Cheesecake Easy Assembly

Eggnog Cheesecake Easy Assembly

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up the oven to 325°F.

Coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, ground nutmeg, and melted butter in a mixing bowl.

Press the mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid foundation for the cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Creamy Cheesecake Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth and free of lumps.

Gently incorporate eggnog and flour, stirring until the mixture becomes uniform and silky.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor

Add eggs one at a time, thoroughly mixing after each addition to ensure a consistent texture.

Fold in vanilla extract and a sprinkle of nutmeg, which will enhance the festive eggnog flavor profile.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the creamy batter over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.

The cheesecake is ready when the center appears set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven and crack the door open.

Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually for one hour.

Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture and flavor melding.

Eggnog Cheesecake – Holiday Baking Tips For Smooth Texture

Eggnog Cheesecake - Holiday Baking Tips For Smooth Texture
  • Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid, stable base that won’t crumble when slicing.
  • Cool the cheesecake slowly by leaving the oven door slightly open to reduce temperature gradually, preventing unsightly surface cracks.
  • Use fresh, high-quality eggnog for the most robust and authentic holiday flavor in your cheesecake.
  • Beat cream cheese and sugar thoroughly until completely smooth to eliminate any lumps and ensure a creamy, velvety texture.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the cheesecake’s center reaches 150°F for perfect doneness without overbaking.

Chill Eggnog Cheesecake Before Reuse

Chill Eggnog Cheesecake Before Reuse
  • Store leftover eggnog cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. It stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
  • Slice the cheesecake before freezing. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake keeps well for 2-3 months.
  • Remove frozen cheesecake from the freezer and let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Warm individual slices briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For best texture, enjoy cheesecake chilled or at room temperature.

Eggnog Cheesecake Companion Flavors

  • Pair with Spiced Rum Toddy: Warm spiced rum toddy complements the creamy eggnog cheesecake, enhancing its rich holiday flavors with gentle warmth and complementary spices.
  • Serve with Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle golden caramel sauce over each slice, adding depth and sweet complexity that matches the cheesecake’s nutmeg and eggnog profile.
  • Match with Candied Pecans: Sprinkle crunchy candied pecans on top for textural contrast, bringing a nutty sweetness that elevates the dessert’s creamy texture.
  • Complement with Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Top the cheesecake with lightly spiced cinnamon whipped cream, creating a delicate, aromatic finish that harmonizes with the cake’s warming spices.

Eggnog Cheesecake with Holiday-Inspired Enhancements

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese alternatives and use coconut milk eggnog for a lactose-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs like almond or coconut flour-based cookies.
  • Low-Sugar Modification: Use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the creamy texture.
  • Spiced Rum Infusion: Add a splash of dark rum to the batter for an adult-friendly version with deeper holiday flavor complexity.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients that make this eggnog cheesecake unique?

The recipe uses traditional eggnog as a key flavoring, which adds a rich, creamy holiday taste to the classic cheesecake. Nutmeg is also sprinkled both in the crust and filling, enhancing the traditional eggnog flavor profile.

  • Can I use low-fat ingredients in this recipe?

While you can substitute low-fat cream cheese and eggnog, keep in mind that this might affect the texture and richness of the cheesecake. Full-fat ingredients typically provide the best creamy consistency and flavor.

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

The slow cooling method in this recipe helps prevent cracks. By turning off the oven and leaving the door slightly open, you allow the cheesecake to cool gradually, which reduces the likelihood of surface cracking.

  • Is this recipe suitable for holiday gatherings?

Absolutely! This eggnog cheesecake is perfect for Christmas and winter holiday parties. Its festive flavor and elegant presentation make it an ideal dessert for special occasions.

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Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe

Eggnog Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Velvety eggnog cheesecake brings holiday magic to dessert tables with creamy richness and festive spices. Silky smooth filling nestled in a graham cracker crust promises delightful indulgence for winter celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 packages (8 ounces/226 grams each) cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) eggnog
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup (76 grams) melted butter
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar

Spice and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and combine with melted butter, sugar, and a hint of nutmeg. Compact the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating a solid, even foundation for the cheesecake.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese until silky smooth, gradually incorporating sugar to ensure a luxurious texture without lumps.
  3. Gently fold in eggnog and flour, stirring until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency, allowing each ingredient to blend harmoniously.
  4. Introduce eggs one by one, carefully incorporating each into the batter with gentle, precise strokes to maintain the mixture’s delicate structure.
  5. Enhance the flavor profile by adding vanilla extract and a sprinkle of nutmeg, distributing these aromatic elements evenly throughout the cheesecake mixture.
  6. Carefully transfer the batter onto the prepared crust, ensuring an even distribution and smooth surface.
  7. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 325°F, allowing the cheesecake to bake for approximately 50-60 minutes until the center sets with a subtle, gentle jiggle.
  8. Once baking completes, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar, permitting the cheesecake to cool gradually and prevent sudden temperature shifts that could cause cracking.
  9. After the initial cooling period, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it chill for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve optimal flavor and texture development.

Notes

  • Prevent cracks by avoiding overmixing the batter and using room temperature ingredients for smooth, creamy texture.
  • Wrap the springform pan’s exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage if using a water bath for even baking.
  • Create dairy-free version by substituting cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese and using coconut milk eggnog.
  • Enhance flavor by adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the cheesecake batter for a more complex holiday taste profile.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 25 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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