Eggnog Cheesecake – A Creamy, Festive Holiday Dessert

There’s something magical about December evenings when the scent of nutmeg fills the kitchen. This Eggnog Cheesecake captures that cozy Christmas spirit in every creamy bite. With hints of rum extract, rich cream cheese, and a buttery graham crust, it’s the kind of dessert that makes you linger by the table long after the plates are cleared.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Cheesecake

This cheesecake blends everything people love about eggnog with the smooth richness of classic cheesecake. It’s festive, spiced, and perfect for gatherings. The recipe is beginner-friendly but delivers an elegant result that looks straight out of a bakery window. Plus, it can be made ahead, so you can relax on the big day and just enjoy dessert time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust

The crust combines graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, melted butter, rum extract, and nutmeg to create a warm, spiced base that perfectly complements the creamy filling.

For the Cheesecake Filling

Full-fat cream cheese gives the cheesecake its signature richness. Eggs bind everything together, while sugar and eggnog add sweetness and flavor. Rum extract and nutmeg infuse that unmistakable holiday warmth, and cornstarch helps achieve a smooth, sliceable texture.

For the Whipped Cream Topping

Cold heavy cream, eggnog, powdered sugar, rum extract, and nutmeg create a light, flavorful topping that balances the dense cheesecake beneath it. It’s simple yet adds a beautiful festive finish.

How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake Step by Step

Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan. If you plan to use a water bath, wrap the outside with foil to prevent leaks.

Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, rum extract, nutmeg, and brown sugar until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. Set aside.

Mix the Cheesecake Filling

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar gradually, then mix in eggs one at a time. Stir in eggnog and rum extract. Reduce speed, add cornstarch and nutmeg, and beat just until fully combined.

Bake in a Water Bath

Pour the filling into the crust. Set the pan inside a larger roasting pan and pour hot water halfway up the sides. Bake for 85 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.

Cooling and Chilling

Turn off the oven and crack the door open for 10–15 minutes. Then remove the cheesecake and let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Finally, cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

How to Make Eggnog Whipped Cream

Beat cold heavy cream and powdered sugar until thickened. Slowly drizzle in eggnog and rum extract, then continue beating until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Holiday Cheesecake

Bring cream cheese and eggs to room temperature for a smooth texture. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles that cause cracks. Always bake in a water bath for even cooking. Never test doneness with a knife—look for firm edges and a slightly jiggly center. When slicing, warm your knife in hot water for clean cuts.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate the cheesecake tightly covered for up to 5 days. To freeze, skip the whipped topping and wrap the cheesecake in several layers of plastic wrap and foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before decorating and serving.

Recipe FAQs

Serving Suggestions

Top with extra whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg. You can also sprinkle shaved white chocolate for a snowy touch. Pair it with hot coffee, spiced rum, or even a classic glass of eggnog for a full holiday experience.

More Such Recipes

• mini pumpkin cheesecakes for holiday dessert trays
• peppermint bark brownies with festive flair
• red white and blue cheesecake bars for celebrations
• pumpkin cheesecake bars with spiced flavor
• easy pumpkin pie recipe for seasonal gatherings
• banana pudding cheesecake bars as creamy crowd-pleaser
• summer berry and peach cheesecake for fruity indulgence

Conclusion

This Eggnog Cheesecake brings comfort and celebration together in one smooth, creamy slice. It’s simple to make, easy to prepare ahead, and guaranteed to wow your guests with its festive flavor. Bake it once, and it may just become a Christmas tradition in your home. Share your photos or tag me when you do I’d love to see your creation!

For more dessert inspiration, follow along on Pinterest and Facebook.

Print