Eggnog Cheesecake Holiday Treat

This creamy Eggnog Cheesecake is pure holiday magic and makes every celebration feel a bit more special. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a silky filling infused with real eggnog and spices, this recipe is the ultimate treat for eggnog fans and cheesecake lovers alike.

I first made this Eggnog Cheesecake for a family Christmas Eve dinner and it disappeared long before the pies. Its rich flavor and velvety texture brought the whole family back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: Give a classic sweet crunchy crust and hold their shape well when pressed. Use fresh crumbs for the best flavor
• Salted butter: Helps bring all the flavors together and adds a hint of savory balance. Choose good quality butter for rich flavor
• Sugar: Adds just the right sweetness. Use fine white sugar so it dissolves into the crust and filling smoothly
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Are the signature eggnog spices. Freshly grated nutmeg gives the filling extra warmth
• Cream cheese: Is the star and must be room temperature for a smooth filling. Avoid generic brands to prevent a grainy texture
• Eggnog: Gives the cheesecake its unique festive flavor
• Flour: Helps set the cheesecake gently without making it dense
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth try to use real vanilla when possible
• Rum extract or real rum: Gives a hint of traditional holiday flavor but can be omitted for kids
• Eggs: Create lift and structure pick large eggs for the best consistency
• Sugared cranberries and whipped cream: Make the topping shimmer and pop

Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Line the bottom of a nine inch springform pan with parchment paper and line the sides with a strip. Use a bit of shortening to stick the paper in place. Wrap the bottom of the pan in heavy aluminum foil to prevent water leaks if using a water bath

Set Up the Water Bath:

Choose a roasting pan that fits your springform pan. Plan to pour hot water around the cheesecake to provide a gentle even bake which helps prevent cracks

Make the Crust:

Mix graham cracker crumbs melted butter sugar cinnamon and nutmeg in a bowl until it resembles damp sand. Press into the springform pan using a flat measuring cup to form a tight even layer. Bake alone for ten minutes and let cool

Mix Cheesecake Filling:

Beat softened cream cheese in a stand mixer or with an electric mixer until perfectly smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides and add the sugar flour cinnamon and nutmeg. Blend until just mixed in

Add Wet Ingredients:

Pour in eggnog vanilla extract and rum extract or real rum. Beat gently until the mixture looks smooth and even

Incorporate the Eggs:

Add eggs one at a time mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Do not overbeat or the filling can become dense

Bake the Cheesecake:

Pour filling over the crust. Set the springform pan in the roasting pan then fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the side of the springform pan. Bake for one hour and ten minutes turning pan halfway for even cooking. Loosely cover top with foil if browning

Cool Gradually:

Shut off the oven and crack the door open about an inch. Allow cheesecake to cool slowly until room temperature this helps prevent cracks

Chill Thoroughly:

Remove the cheesecake from oven and water bath then peel away foil. Chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours or better yet overnight

Unmold and Decorate:

Remove sides of the springform pan and parchment strips gently. Slide cheesecake onto a platter or leave on the base. Decorate with whipped cream and sugared cranberries

A showstopper dessert for parties and family gatherings. Eggnog gives such a nostalgic flavor that it stands out from other cheesecakes. Cream cheese is my go to dessert base and every birthday or holiday I remember my mom handing me the beater to lick. The smell and tang always remind me of family baking days.

Storage Tips

Keep cheesecake chilled covered tightly with plastic or foil. Best served within four days but flavor deepens by day two. Slices freeze perfectly wrapped individually just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ginger snap crumbs instead of graham crackers for a spicy crust alternative. If you do not have rum extract a dash of spiced rum or bourbon works or simply leave it out for a non alcoholic version. For a lower fat option use light cream cheese but do not substitute all the cream cheese or texture will suffer.

Serving Suggestions

Decorate the top with a ring of whipped cream and a mound of sugared cranberries in the center. Add grated nutmeg just before serving for extra aroma. Excellent with coffee or an extra glass of eggnog for dessert at brunch.

Cultural and Historical Context

Eggnog is a traditional holiday drink with European origins that became a festive favorite in the United States. Cheesecake has graced tables since ancient Greece but this version is a joyous blend of American style cheesecake and the beloved holiday beverage. Bringing these together makes every December gathering special.

Seasonal Adaptations

Top this cheesecake with candied pecans for an autumn twist. Serve with cinnamon stick stirrers and poached pears for a wintry buffet. Use rainbow sprinkles and fresh berries instead of cranberries for a spring baby shower dessert.

Success Stories

Over the years friends have asked for this recipe after one bite at holiday parties. My cousin once ate two slices before anyone else had dessert and insists I bring it every year. Even non eggnog fans are surprised at how much they love its creamy spice.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze the whole cheesecake let it chill overnight wrap tightly in several layers of plastic wrap topped with foil and freeze up to two months. Thaw in the fridge for one day before serving.

This cheesecake can become a new family tradition for your holiday table. Each slice is creamy, spiced, and guaranteed to impress guests.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of pan is best for this cheesecake?

A high-sided 9-inch springform pan is ideal, allowing for easy release and even baking.

→ Why use a water bath when baking?

Baking in a water bath helps prevent cracks and keeps the cheesecake filling creamy and smooth.

→ Can I substitute real rum for rum extract?

Yes, either real rum or rum extract can be used based on your taste and preference.

→ How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?

A minimum of four hours chilling is recommended, but overnight yields the best texture and flavor.

→ What garnishes pair well with this cheesecake?

Sugared cranberries and whipped cream add festive flair and complement the creamy, spiced filling.

→ Is it necessary to line the pan with parchment?

Lining with parchment ensures easy removal and maintains the shape during baking and serving.