Eggnog Christmas Cheesecake
Eggnog Christmas Cheesecake is a festive treat that combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, cozy flavors of eggnog and a hint of holiday spices. This dessert…
By Ava
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Reading time: 7 min
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Eggnog Christmas Cheesecake is a festive treat that combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the warm, cozy flavors of eggnog and a hint of holiday spices. This dessert usually features a smooth, velvety filling with notes of nutmeg and cinnamon, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s like taking the best parts of the holidays and turning them into a creamy, dreamy cake.
I love making this cheesecake when the season turns chilly because it instantly feels like a special occasion. One tip I’ve found helpful is to let it chill overnight so all the flavors really blend together and the texture gets perfectly firm yet silky. Plus, adding a little whipped cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg on top makes it look as good as it tastes, and who doesn’t love a pretty cake?
Eggnog Christmas Cheesecake is always a hit at family gatherings and holiday parties. I like serving it alongside a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea to keep that cozy vibe going. It’s one of those desserts that makes people smile and come back for seconds, and it’s so nice to share something seasonal that feels a bit nostalgic but also refreshingly creamy and delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: They make a sweet, crunchy crust. If you can’t find them, use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers instead. Just remember to press the crumbs firmly for a solid base.
Cream Cheese: This is what makes the cheesecake creamy and smooth. Make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps. You can use full-fat or light cream cheese, but full-fat gives the best texture.
Eggnog: This adds that classic holiday flavor with nutmeg and vanilla notes. If you don’t have eggnog, substitute with a mix of milk and a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon for a similar taste.
Spices (Nutmeg & Cinnamon): These bring warmth and the festive vibe to the cheesecake. Freshly ground spices give the best flavor, but pre-ground works fine too.
Sour Cream Topping: It adds a slight tang and creaminess to finish the cheesecake without being too sweet. Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute if you prefer.
How Do You Make Sure Your Cheesecake Bakes Smoothly Without Cracks?
Cracking is a common issue with cheesecakes, but a few simple steps help avoid this.
- Mix Gently: Overmixing adds air, causing cracks. Beat ingredients just until smooth.
- Water Bath: Although not used here, wrapping the pan and baking in a water bath keeps heat gentle and even.
- Bake Low and Slow: Bake at 325°F (163°C) for even cooking and avoid rapid temperature changes.
- Cool Gradually: After baking, leave the cheesecake in the warm oven with the door slightly open for an hour. This helps it cool slowly and prevents cracks.
- Don’t Overbake: The center should still jiggle slightly when you take it out—residual heat will finish cooking it.
Following these tips, your cheesecake will have a silky texture and a smooth top perfect for holiday presentation.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch springform pan – makes it easy to remove the cheesecake without breaking it.
- Electric mixer or stand mixer – helps beat the cream cheese smooth for a creamy filling.
- Mixing bowls – for combining crust ingredients and filling separately.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredient amounts just right.
- Rubber spatula – perfect for scraping down the bowl and folding ingredients gently.
- Oven thermometer (optional) – ensures your oven is at the right temperature for even baking.
- Whisk – great for mixing the sour cream topping smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the filling for a richer, boozy kick that pairs well with the eggnog flavor.
- Mix in ½ cup finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the crust for extra crunch and a nutty taste.
- Swap the fresh cranberries topping for pomegranate seeds or dried cherries for a different tart, festive note.
- Stir in ½ teaspoon ground ginger or allspice to the filling for a warm twist on the classic spices.
How to Make Eggnog Christmas Cheesecake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for decoration
- Fresh cranberries
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Sprig of evergreen or rosemary for garnish (optional)
- Additional ground nutmeg or cinnamon for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesecake takes about 20 minutes to prepare, 60-70 minutes to bake, plus an hour of slow cooling in the oven, and 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator—so plan ahead to make this festive dessert the day before you want to enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir everything together until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool.
2. Making the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in the eggnog and vanilla extract. Then sprinkle in the nutmeg, cinnamon, and flour. Mix gently until everything is fully blended and smooth—avoid overmixing.
3. Baking the Cheesecake:
Pour the creamy filling over the cooled crust in your springform pan. Place it on the middle rack of your oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center will still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
4. Adding the Topping:
While the cheesecake is baking, mix together the sour cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Once the cheesecake’s initial baking time is up, carefully spread this topping evenly over the cheesecake.
5. Final Baking and Cooling:
Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. After that, turn off the oven, prop the oven door slightly open, and let the cheesecake sit inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks in your cheesecake.
6. Chilling and Serving:
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly.
7. Decorating:
Before serving, pipe whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake. Pile fresh cranberries in the center and dust with powdered sugar to look like snow. Add a sprig of evergreen or rosemary for a festive touch, and sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon over the whipped cream for extra holiday charm.
8. Enjoy!
Slice your rich, creamy Eggnog Christmas Cheesecake and share this delicious festive treat with friends and family. It’s the perfect dessert to celebrate the holidays!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese or Eggnog for This Recipe?
You can use low-fat cream cheese or eggnog, but keep in mind that the cheesecake may be less creamy and rich. Full-fat versions give the best texture and flavor, especially for this festive dessert.
How Should I Store Leftover Eggnog Christmas Cheesecake?
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep the whipped cream decoration separate if possible to preserve its texture.
Can I Make This Cheesecake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake actually tastes better after chilling overnight, which allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have Eggnog?
If you don’t have eggnog, you can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half mixed with a pinch of ground nutmeg and cinnamon to replicate that holiday flavor.