There’s a certain magic that fills the air when the holidays roll around, and nothing embodies that festive spirit quite like Eggnog Cheesecake. Imagine creamy, velvety layers of cheesecake infused with the rich flavors of nutmeg and vanilla, all sitting atop a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s as if your favorite holiday drink decided to throw a party in dessert form, inviting everyone to indulge in its sweet embrace.
I still remember the first time I attempted to make Eggnog Cheesecake for a family gathering. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was so intoxicating that even my cat, Mr. Whiskers, appeared suspiciously interested in the proceedings. This dessert has become our family’s delightful tradition, often served at Christmas gatherings where laughter fills the room and everyone fights over who gets the last slice. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for those special occasions—it’s bound to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Eggnog Cheesecake is incredibly easy to whip up even for novice bakers.
- Each bite bursts with holiday flavors that transport you straight to winter wonderland bliss.
- Its stunning appearance makes it an irresistible centerpiece on any dessert table.
- Perfect for holiday parties, it pairs beautifully with coffee or hot cocoa for an extra treat!
My friends declared it heavenly when I served my first slice at a holiday party, leaving smiles all around.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create a buttery crust; choose finely crushed crumbs for the best texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Use melted butter to bind the crust ingredients together perfectly; its richness adds flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Soften it at room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling that blends beautifully.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess; select full-fat for richer flavor and texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens your cheesecake; adjust to taste depending on your sweetness preference.
- Eggs: Essential for structure; use large eggs at room temperature for optimal results.
- Nog (Eggnog): The star ingredient! Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade variety for authentic flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances that classic eggnog flavor; fresh nutmeg can elevate it even further.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract rounds out flavors superbly; avoid imitation if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake
Preheat your oven: Set it to 325°F (160°C) and prepare your 9-inch springform pan by greasing it lightly with non-stick spray.
Create the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined well. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan using your hands or the bottom of a glass.
Prepare the filling: Beat softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
Add eggs and nog: Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding another. Then stir in eggnog, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg until just combined.
Bake: Pour the creamy filling over your crust in the springform pan. Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until just set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool down: Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack. Once cooled completely, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight—this step is crucial for flavor development!
Top and serve: Before serving, feel free to add whipped cream or dust with additional nutmeg for an elegant touch. Slice generously and enjoy every delightful bite!
This Eggnog Cheesecake is sure to become a beloved staple during holiday gatherings—because what’s better than dessert that tastes like a hug?
Content
Using room temperature ingredients can help your eggnog cheesecake bake evenly and achieve a smooth texture. I learned this the hard way, after pulling a lumpy cheesecake from the oven that could’ve doubled as a frisbee.
Always use a water bath to ensure your cheesecake stays moist and doesn’t crack. My first attempt without this tip ended with a cracked surface that resembled a drought-stricken landscape.
You Must Know
- Don’t skip chilling!
- Refrigerate your cheesecake for at least four hours to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- I once rushed this step, resulting in a cake that tasted like it had just met its ingredients.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the crust first, then prepare the filling while it bakes. Once baked, cool before chilling for best results.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. You can also swap sour cream for mascarpone cheese for added creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover eggnog cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This delightful eggnog cheesecake is not just festive; it’s also easy to make ahead of time.
- Share it with friends or save it as a special treat for yourself during the holidays.
- The creamy texture combined with warm spices makes every slice unforgettable!
The first time I made this eggnog cheesecake, my family devoured it faster than a pack of hungry wolves on Christmas morning.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly, saving you time and effort.
How do I know when my cheesecake is done baking?
It should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Can I freeze eggnog cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap tightly and store in an airtight container for up to three months.
Eggnog Cheesecake
Eggnog Cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the festive flavors of eggnog, nutmeg, and vanilla. With a buttery graham cracker crust and rich velvety filling, this dessert transports you to a winter wonderland in every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s sure to impress family and friends while leaving them craving more.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix well.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly before each addition. Stir in eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until just combined.
- Pour filling over the crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 125g)
- Calories: 357
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 97mg
Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for even baking. A water bath can prevent cracks in your cheesecake. Feel free to add spices like ginger or substitute sour cream with mascarpone for extra creaminess.
