The holiday season is upon us, and nothing says festive quite like a slice of smooth eggnog cheesecake. Imagine the creamy texture melting in your mouth while the warm spices of nutmeg and cinnamon dance on your taste buds, sending you straight to winter wonderland bliss. perfect holiday cheese ball This dessert brings together the classic flavors of eggnog and the velvety richness of cheesecake, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. colorful Grinch sugar cookies festive red velvet cookies.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Is Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake suitable for freezing?
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
- What toppings work best with Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall my first attempt at making smooth eggnog cheesecake, I can still hear my family’s delighted gasps as they took their first bites. The joy on their faces was priceless, and with each slice served, I felt like a holiday superhero. Whether it’s Christmas dinner or a New Year’s Eve bash, this dessert will be the star of the show! For more inspiration, check out this raspberry cheesecake bars recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This smooth eggnog cheesecake combines ease of preparation with a rich flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Its stunning visual appeal makes it perfect for any festive occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary needs, bringing joy to all!
I remember one particular Christmas when this smooth eggnog cheesecake was the highlight of our family feast; my cousin even asked for seconds—twice!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed graham crackers for a buttery crust; they provide the perfect crunch.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together; ensure it’s fresh for optimal flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the creaminess of the cheese; adjust according to taste.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better blending; they help create that smooth texture.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese delivers a rich flavor; make sure it’s softened before mixing.
- Eggnog: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for authentic holiday flavor; this is the star ingredient.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla enhances the overall taste; don’t skimp on quality here! vanilla bean creme brulee cupcakes.
- Ground Nutmeg and Cinnamon: These spices bring warmth and celebration into every bite; fresh ground is best!
- Sour Cream: For added creaminess and tanginess; it complements the sweet elements beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
- Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grab a 9-inch springform pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well-blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan using your fingers or a measuring cup.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and blend until creamy, scraping down sides as necessary.
- Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding another. Pour in eggnog, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, cinnamon, and sour cream. Blend until smooth—this part should smell heavenly!
- Pour your filling over the crust in the springform pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until edges are set but center slightly jiggles—like your uncle after too much eggnog.
- Allow cheesecake to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for that smooth texture we all love!
With these simple steps completed, you’ll have created a delightful smooth eggnog cheesecake that will impress guests and family alike. Enjoy every creamy bite!
You Must Know
- Mastering the Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake will elevate your holiday dessert game
- The creamy texture and festive flavors create a delightful experience that everyone craves during the season
- Pair it with a sprinkle of nutmeg for added warmth and aroma, making every bite unforgettable
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve that velvety smoothness, start by blending cream cheese until fluffy, then gradually add other ingredients. This ensures everything combines harmoniously without lumps.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap traditional eggnog for spiced rum eggnog or add chocolate chips for a decadent twist. Personalize it with your favorite toppings!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For reheating, let it sit at room temperature before serving to maintain its texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a flawless cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
- This prevents a lumpy texture and promotes even baking
- Avoid opening the oven door while baking to prevent cracks
- Lastly, let it cool completely before refrigerating for best results
The first time I made this Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake, my family devoured it in seconds! Their delighted faces made all the effort worthwhile, and now it’s a holiday tradition.
FAQ
Is Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months for later enjoyment.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Using low-fat cream cheese is possible but might alter the cheesecake’s rich texture. For more inspiration, check out this no-bake mini cheesecakes recipe.
What toppings work best with Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake?
Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or crushed gingerbread cookies enhance the festive flavor beautifully.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 guests 1x
Description
Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake is a festive dessert that perfectly blends the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of eggnog. Ideal for holiday gatherings, this delightful treat is sure to impress your guests and evoke the spirit of the season. With its velvety texture and aromatic spices, every bite transports you to a cozy winter wonderland. Whether it’s for Christmas dinner or a New Year’s celebration, this cheesecake will be the star of your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Beat softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth. Gradually mix in sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding another. Mix in eggnog, vanilla, spices, and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour filling over crust and bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but center slightly jiggles.
- Cool at room temperature then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
