There’s something truly special about the creamy, spiced flavors of eggnog cheesecake during the holiday season. This dessert combines the classic richness of cheesecake with the comforting warmth of eggnog, creating a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for any festive gathering. The first time I tried this recipe, the reaction from family and friends was unforgettable – creamy, smooth, and just the right touch of nutmeg and cinnamon to evoke that cozy holiday feeling.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delicious as it is impressive, this eggnog cheesecake is your answer. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your holiday table!

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Cheesecake

This eggnog cheesecake isn’t just a seasonal twist on a classic dessert; it’s a celebration of the holidays in every creamy bite.

First off, the flavors are spot-on for the season. The eggnog adds a distinct, festive flavor, and the subtle spices blend beautifully with the smooth, rich cream cheese filling. Every bite is like a warm hug in dessert form.

This recipe is also surprisingly simple to make, despite its impressive appearance. With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a bakery-quality cheesecake with minimal stress.

Another big plus? It’s make-ahead friendly! Cheesecake needs time to set, so you can make it the day before your gathering and know that dessert is ready to go, giving you more time to focus on other dishes or just enjoy the celebration.

Finally, this eggnog cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser. Even those who aren’t usually cheesecake fans find themselves reaching for a second slice, thanks to its balanced flavors and creamy texture.

Ready to impress your guests? Let’s get started with the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this eggnog cheesecake lies in its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. Each one plays a unique role in creating the perfect texture and taste for this holiday dessert.

Eggnog is the star ingredient, bringing that unmistakable holiday flavor. Use a high-quality eggnog for the best results – it adds both flavor and richness to the cheesecake filling.

Cream Cheese provides the luxurious base of the cheesecake. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature before using, so it blends smoothly without lumps.

A hint of Nutmeg and Cinnamon adds warmth and enhances the eggnog’s natural flavors. Freshly grated nutmeg, if available, offers a bolder flavor that really shines in this recipe.

For the crust, Graham Crackers or Gingersnaps both work beautifully. The spiced warmth of gingersnaps adds an extra festive touch, but graham crackers keep it classic.

Lastly, a small amount of All-Purpose Flour in the filling helps stabilize the cheesecake and create a smooth texture without cracks. You’ll also need a springform pan to give the cheesecake its professional look and make serving a breeze.

How To Make This Eggnog Cheesecake

Creating this eggnog cheesecake is easier than you might think, and the results are sure to wow everyone at your holiday gathering.

Start with the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers or gingersnaps with melted butter and a pinch of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even layer. Bake for about 10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add in sugar and flour, then continue beating until everything is fully incorporated. Slowly pour in the eggnog, followed by vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Add the Eggs: Crack one egg at a time into the mixture, beating just until combined after each addition. This helps avoid overmixing, which can cause cracks in the cheesecake. Once all eggs are added, give the mixture a final stir to make sure everything is blended evenly.
Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the springform pan. Place the pan in a larger baking dish filled with about an inch of hot water (a water bath) – this helps prevent cracks. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour. This gentle cooling prevents cracks from forming. Once it reaches room temperature, cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

Your eggnog cheesecake is now ready to enjoy! Serve it with a dusting of nutmeg or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra festive touch.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though they may not last long!), you’ll want to store this cheesecake properly to keep it tasting fresh.

In the Fridge: Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it a great option for planning ahead.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. This way, you can pull out a slice or two whenever the craving strikes. Frozen cheesecake will last for up to 2 months.

To reheat, just let the cheesecake thaw in the refrigerator overnight. It tastes just as creamy and delicious as the day you made it!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about this eggnog cheesecake recipe is how adaptable it can be to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Swap the Eggnog: If eggnog isn’t your thing, try using a different flavored milk or non-dairy eggnog for a unique twist. Almond or coconut milk adds a subtle, nutty flavor.
Add a Topping: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake for a sweet, buttery finish. Or try a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon for a simple, elegant look.
Try a Chocolate Crust: For chocolate lovers, substitute crushed chocolate wafer cookies in place of graham crackers. This adds a rich contrast to the creamy, spiced filling.
Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or gingersnaps for the crust, and ensure your eggnog is gluten-free. The cheesecake itself is naturally gluten-free once you make this swap!

No matter how you customize this cheesecake, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors to make it your own!

This eggnog cheesecake brings all the comforting holiday flavors into one rich, creamy dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. Each slice is a little taste of the season, from the warmth of the spices to the creamy eggnog-infused filling. Gather your ingredients, get cozy, and treat yourself to this irresistible holiday dessert – it just might become a new tradition!