There's something magical about the rich, creamy taste of eggnog, especially when it's transformed into a decadent dessert like Eggnog Cheesecake. This holiday favorite is the perfect blend of classic cheesecake and festive spice, making it a show-stopper for any winter gathering.

I first whipped up this Eggnog Cheesecake for a family Christmas dinner, and it was an instant hit. The smooth, velvety filling paired with the buttery graham cracker crust had everyone asking for seconds. Ready to make this your go-to holiday dessert? Let’s dive in.

Why You'll Love This Eggnog Cheesecake

Get ready to elevate your dessert game with this Eggnog Cheesecake recipe. It’s everything you love about the holidays in one creamy, dreamy bite.

To start, this cheesecake is incredibly rich and indulgent, with a silky texture that melts in your mouth. The hint of nutmeg and cinnamon adds just the right amount of holiday warmth, making it the perfect treat for chilly nights.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s easier than you think. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-worthy results.

And let’s not forget the crust! The buttery graham cracker base provides a delightful crunch that perfectly balances the creamy filling. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party or enjoying a quiet night in, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress.

So, grab your apron and preheat the oven – this Eggnog Cheesecake is about to become a holiday tradition.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Eggnog Cheesecake lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one works together to create a dessert that's as festive as it is delicious.

The graham cracker crust forms the foundation of this recipe. You’ll need graham crackers, melted butter, and a touch of sugar to bring it all together. The result is a sweet, slightly crunchy base that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.

For the cheesecake filling, cream cheese is the star. Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and smoothest texture. Allow it to soften at room temperature before you start to make mixing a breeze.

Next comes the eggnog – the ingredient that sets this cheesecake apart. Use a high-quality store-bought eggnog or a homemade version if you’re feeling adventurous. Its creamy consistency and subtle spice are essential for achieving that signature holiday flavor.

A sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic touch that perfectly complements the eggnog. If you have freshly grated nutmeg, even better – it elevates the flavors to a whole new level.

Lastly, you’ll need eggs and a bit of sugar to bind everything together and enhance the sweetness. Don’t forget a splash of vanilla extract for that extra layer of depth.

How To Make This Eggnog Cheesecake

Creating this Eggnog Cheesecake is easier than you might think, especially with these simple, step-by-step instructions.

Start by preparing the crust. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix them with melted butter and sugar until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Bake the crust briefly to set it before adding the filling.

For the filling, begin by beating softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, followed by eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a velvety texture with no lumps.

Next, pour in the eggnog along with vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix until everything is fully incorporated and the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can introduce air bubbles that may affect the cheesecake’s texture.

Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake the cheesecake in a water bath for even cooking. The edges should be set, while the center remains slightly jiggly – it will firm up as it cools.

Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the texture set.

Storage Options

This Eggnog Cheesecake stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert for busy holiday schedules.

To refrigerate, cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the cheesecake (whole or in slices) in a layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

When reheating individual slices, simply let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to bring back their creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few variations to make it your own:

Swap the graham crackers for gingersnap cookies in the crust for an extra burst of holiday flavor.
Add a splash of rum extract or spiced rum to the filling for a boozy twist.
Use plant-based eggnog and dairy-free cream cheese to create a vegan version of this dessert.
Top the cheesecake with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg for a festive finishing touch.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes! Caramel drizzle, candied pecans, or a sprinkle of crushed cookies can take this cheesecake to the next level.

With its rich flavors and creamy texture, Eggnog Cheesecake is a must-try this holiday season. Give it a whirl – you’ll be glad you did!