Creamy, indulgent, and filled with the warming spices of the holiday season, Eggnog Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert perfect for winter gatherings. This cheesecake blends the classic rich texture you love with the nostalgic taste of traditional eggnog—infused with hints of nutmeg, vanilla, and a touch of rum or bourbon if you’d like.
Whether you’re planning a festive dinner, hosting a holiday party, or just looking for a new seasonal favorite, this eggnog cheesecake is sure to impress. It’s elegant, flavorful, and easier to make than you might think.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Festive Flavor: Eggnog, nutmeg, and vanilla create a nostalgic holiday taste.
Ultra Creamy Texture: Smooth, rich cheesecake filling with just the right amount of spice.
Perfect for Entertaining: A beautiful centerpiece dessert that feeds a crowd.
Customizable: Easily tweak the crust, toppings, or even bake it as minis.
Ingredients List
For the Crust
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed gingersnap cookies)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For the Eggnog Cheesecake Filling
3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon rum extract (or 1 tablespoon dark rum)
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings
Whipped cream
Nutmeg for garnish
Caramel drizzle or white chocolate curls
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Chill Time: 4–6 hours (preferably overnight)
Total Time: About 6.5–7 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Step-by-Step Instructions for Eggnog Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine graham crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon.
Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
Add sugar and flour; mix until well combined.
Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended.
Slowly mix in the eggnog, vanilla, rum extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Do not overmix, as this can introduce air and cause cracking.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour filling into the prepared crust.
Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake rest for 1 hour inside to prevent cracking.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Remove from oven and cool completely on the counter.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
Pipe whipped cream around the edges or cover the entire top.
Sprinkle with nutmeg or cinnamon and serve chilled.
Tips for the Best Eggnog Cheesecake
Room Temperature Ingredients
Bring cream cheese, eggs, and eggnog to room temperature for smooth blending.
Avoid Overmixing
Mix until ingredients are just incorporated to avoid too much air in the batter.
Water Bath Optional
While not required, baking with a water bath (placing the springform pan in a larger pan with water) helps with even baking and prevents cracking.
Chill Thoroughly
Don’t skip chilling. The flavor and texture improve dramatically after resting in the fridge.
Flavor Variations
Gingersnap Crust
Replace graham crackers with crushed gingersnaps for a spicy, holiday-themed twist.
Eggnog Swirl Cheesecake
Reserve ½ cup batter and mix with a teaspoon of cinnamon, then swirl into the top of the cheesecake before baking.
Mini Eggnog Cheesecakes
Use a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners to make individual cheesecakes—perfect for parties.
Boozy Cheesecake
Add 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon or spiced rum to intensify the holiday flavor.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Make-Ahead
Make the cheesecake up to 2 days in advance and keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator.
Freezing
Freeze whole or sliced cheesecake: wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
To thaw, refrigerate overnight before serving. Do not microwave.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days.
Keep toppings like whipped cream separate for best results.
Freezer
Freeze individual slices or the whole cake for up to 2 months.
Wrap well to prevent freezer burn.
Nutritional Overview (Per Slice – Approximate)
Calories: 400–480
Fat: 30–35g
Carbohydrates: 30–35g
Protein: 5–7g
Sugar: 25–30g
Calcium: Moderate (from eggnog and cream cheese)
Nutritional values vary depending on toppings and brand of eggnog used.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Dessert Tables
Pair with other festive desserts like gingerbread cookies, pecan pie, or trifle.
Hot Drink Pairings
Serve with coffee, hot cocoa, or even a mug of warm eggnog for a coordinated flavor experience.
Plated Dessert
Garnish with caramel sauce, crushed pecans, or white chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor. Avoid fat-free versions.
What kind of eggnog should I use?
Store-bought full-fat eggnog works best, but homemade can also be used if well-strained and cooked.
My cheesecake cracked. What can I do?
Top it with whipped cream or frosting to hide imperfections. Cracks don’t affect taste!
Can I make this cheesecake crustless?
Yes, you can pour the filling directly into a greased pan and bake. It will still be delicious.
Can I add gelatin to make it firmer?
The traditional recipe doesn’t need gelatin. However, you may use it in a no-bake version.
Conclusion
Eggnog Cheesecake is everything a holiday dessert should be: rich, creamy, festive, and unforgettable. With every bite bursting with the warm spices and custard-like richness of eggnog, it’s the perfect way to bring your favorite holiday drink to life in dessert form.
Whether you serve it at a family dinner, a Christmas Eve celebration, or a winter gathering with friends, this cheesecake will quickly become a new seasonal tradition. It’s surprisingly easy to make, fully customizable, and guaranteed to wow your guests.