Eggnog Cheesecake is a creamy and festive Christmas dessert made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth eggnog-flavored cheesecake filling. Warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon give it the classic holiday flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy and rich: Cream cheese and eggnog create a smooth, decadent filling.
- Festive flavor: Nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla bring classic Christmas flavors.
- Perfect for holidays: It makes an elegant dessert for Christmas dinner and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
For Serving
- Whipped cream
- Ground nutmeg
- Cinnamon sticks, optional
How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
Add the eggnog, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, flour, and sour cream. Mix just until smooth and combined. Avoid overmixing.
3. Bake
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for about 30 minutes.
4. Chill
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
5. Serve
Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and top with whipped cream. Sprinkle with nutmeg or cinnamon before slicing.
Tips for the Best Eggnog Cheesecake
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can cause cracks.
- Avoid opening the oven frequently while the cheesecake bakes.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before slicing.
- For cleaner slices, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
Final Thoughts
This Eggnog Cheesecake is a rich, creamy, and festive dessert that’s perfect for Christmas. The combination of smooth cheesecake, buttery graham cracker crust, eggnog, and warm spices makes it a beautiful addition to any holiday dessert table.
