Eggnog Cheesecake
Eggnog Cheesecake is a rich, creamy holiday dessert that captures the classic flavors of traditional eggnog with warm spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla. Featuring a smooth, dense texture and a buttery graham cracker crust, this festive cheesecake is perfect for holiday gatherings, making celebrations cozy and delightful with its unique seasonal twist.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian (can be adapted to Gluten Free and Dairy-Free)
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or cookies)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup eggnog
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (or substitute with maple syrup)
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers finely and mix with melted butter until the mixture holds together. Press this evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to form a crunchy base. Chill it while preparing the filling for best results.
- Mix the Filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat. Incorporate eggs one at a time, fully combining each before adding the next. Fold in the eggnog, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon until completely blended to infuse rich holiday flavors.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top evenly. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Avoid high heat to prevent cracks. Cool gradually to room temperature before refrigerating overnight or for at least 4 hours to achieve a creamy, firm texture.
- Chill and Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the pan carefully after chilling. Add desired toppings such as whipped cream sprinkled with nutmeg, toasted pecans, or caramel drizzle. Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing and decadent holiday dessert.
Notes
- Use cream cheese and eggs at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Mix filling just until combined to avoid incorporating excess air and prevent cracking.
- Consider baking the cheesecake in a bain-marie (water bath) for even heat distribution and crack prevention.
- Cool cheesecake gradually without sudden temperature changes to maintain a creamy texture and avoid cracks.
- Adjust nutmeg and cinnamon quantities to taste for a milder or more pronounced festive flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: Eggnog Cheesecake, Holiday Dessert, Christmas Dessert, Festive Cheesecake, Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Vanilla, Winter Dessert