There’s something magical about combining the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog with the luscious texture of cheesecake. This Eggnog Cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert, capturing the essence of winter festivities in every velvety bite. With a smooth eggnog-infused filling over a buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a treat that will have everyone gathered around the table for seconds.

I discovered this recipe one holiday season when I was experimenting with flavors to surprise my family. Ever since, it’s become a must-have at our gatherings, delivering holiday warmth with a touch of nostalgia. Now, let’s dive into this unforgettable dessert!

Why You'll Love This Eggnog Cheesecake

Get ready to experience a holiday cheesecake unlike any other! This Eggnog Cheesecake blends seasonal flavors into an unforgettable dessert that will quickly become a new family tradition.

First, the eggnog flavor gives this cheesecake a unique, festive twist. With its creamy custard base and hints of nutmeg and vanilla, the eggnog makes this dessert a real standout on any holiday table.

This recipe is easier than it sounds! Despite the elegant presentation, making this cheesecake is straightforward. Each step is designed to make sure you get a smooth, creamy filling without fuss.

It’s also a make-ahead dream. This cheesecake needs time to chill, making it perfect to prepare the night before a big celebration. Just pull it out of the fridge and impress your guests without last-minute stress.

Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even those who aren’t crazy about traditional eggnog will find themselves enjoying this balanced, not-too-sweet dessert that pairs perfectly with coffee or after-dinner drinks.

Ingredients Notes

The key to this Eggnog Cheesecake is in the selection of a few simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in bringing out that festive flavor.

Graham Cracker Crust: The crust provides a buttery, slightly crunchy foundation for the cheesecake. If you’re feeling creative, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mixture to enhance the holiday flavor.
Cream Cheese: Go for full-fat cream cheese for the best results. Its smooth, rich texture creates the base for the cheesecake, and the fat content ensures a creamy, dense result. Make sure it’s softened before you begin mixing to avoid lumps.
Eggnog: The star ingredient, eggnog, lends a creamy, spiced flavor that elevates the cheesecake filling. Opt for a high-quality eggnog with a rich, velvety texture for the most luxurious result.
Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and complements the eggnog’s sweetness without overwhelming it.
Nutmeg and Vanilla Extract: Nutmeg enhances the eggnog flavor, bringing a warm, spiced note that truly captures the holiday spirit. Vanilla extract rounds out the flavors and adds depth to each bite.

You’ll also need a springform pan and a mixer to blend the filling smoothly. The springform pan is essential for easy removal, allowing you to present a flawless, show-stopping cheesecake.

How To Make This Eggnog Cheesecake

Making this Eggnog Cheesecake is simpler than you might expect. Follow these steps to create a creamy, festive dessert that’s sure to impress!

Begin by preparing the graham cracker crust. Combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a pinch of sugar in a mixing bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, making sure it’s evenly spread. Pop the crust in the fridge to set while you prepare the filling.

For the filling, start by beating the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a lump-free cheesecake, so don’t rush it! Gradually add the sugar, beating until well-combined, then slowly pour in the eggnog, mixing as you go.

Next, add in the vanilla extract and ground nutmeg, blending until all ingredients are fully incorporated. At this stage, the mixture should be velvety and thick. Carefully pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Preheat your oven to 325°F and bake the cheesecake for about 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, leaving the cheesecake inside for an additional 10 minutes to prevent cracks from forming. Finally, let it cool on the counter before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Once it’s fully chilled, the cheesecake will have a firm, creamy texture and a beautifully set filling. Garnish with a light dusting of nutmeg or whipped cream, if desired, to give it an extra festive touch!

Storage Options

Eggnog Cheesecake is not only delicious but also stores beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy holiday gatherings.

To store, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Its flavors actually deepen over time, so it’ll taste just as delicious, if not better, on the second or third day.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice of holiday cheer anytime over the next 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

When it’s time to reheat, skip the microwave to maintain the texture. Simply let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes on the counter before serving for the creamiest consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This Eggnog Cheesecake is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas for variations and substitutions:

Spiced Crust: For a bolder flavor, try a gingerbread crust instead of graham crackers. Crushed gingersnap cookies make a perfect festive base for this holiday dessert.
Non-Dairy Version: Substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use a non-dairy eggnog like almond or oat-based eggnog. It’s a great option for those with dairy allergies, and the flavor is still delicious!
Bourbon Eggnog: If you’re looking to add a grown-up twist, use bourbon eggnog and a splash of bourbon in the filling. The warm notes of bourbon complement the creamy, spiced flavors in the cheesecake.
Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin with cupcake liners to make individual eggnog cheesecakes. These cute, bite-sized versions are perfect for holiday parties and easy to serve.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. Whether you follow it exactly or add a few personal touches, this Eggnog Cheesecake is sure to be a holiday hit!