The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to indulge than with a Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake? Imagine a velvety slice of cheesecake that captures the essence of eggnog—creamy, spiced, and oh-so-delicious. fun monster snacks You can almost hear the sound of festive jingles as you savor each bite.
This dessert isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience that transports you to cozy gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply indulging in a quiet evening at home, this Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake will make your taste buds sing in delight. party popcorn mix Halloween cheesecake brownies.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules
- The rich flavors evoke festive memories, while its stunning presentation makes it a showstopper
- Versatile enough for any occasion, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike
I still remember the first time I made this cheesecake for my annual holiday gathering. My aunt practically swooned over it, and let’s just say I was crowned the family dessert champion that night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Choose fresh crumbs for a crisp crust that balances perfectly with the creaminess of the filling.
- Unsalted Butter: Use melted butter to bind the crust together without adding extra saltiness.
- Pumpkin Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger enhances the eggnog flavor beautifully.
- Eggs: Bring eggs to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling texture.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for an ultra-creamy cheesecake. For more inspiration, check out this Baileys Irish Cream Cheesecake recipe.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and richness; use full-fat for the best results.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake; adjust based on your preference for sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor profile; it’s worth skipping imitation.
- Nutmeg (for garnish): Freshly grated nutmeg adds a fragrant finish to each slice before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Create the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar, eggs (one at a time), sour cream, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the filling over your pre-baked crust. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cool Down Time!: After baking, turn off the oven and crack open the door slightly. Let your cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour—this helps prevent cracking.
Add Finishing Touches: Once cooled completely at room temperature, refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible. festive party punch Before serving, sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg on top for that festive flair.
Enjoy every delightful bite of this Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake! You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears when served alongside cups of hot cocoa or mulled wine during those chilly winter evenings. For more inspiration, check out this Ultimate Chocolate Cake Recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake is perfect for holiday gatherings
- Its creamy texture and spiced flavor create a festive delight
- Remember to chill it overnight for the best taste
- The aroma will have your guests dreaming of sugarplums!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the crust first. While it bakes, mix the cheesecake filling to save time and achieve perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular cream cheese with flavored varieties. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra holiday flair that everyone will love.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. No reheating needed; serve chilled for maximum flavor!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter; this ensures everything blends evenly without lumps
- Avoid overmixing once eggs are added to maintain that light texture
- Lastly, don’t skip the chilling—this cheesecake tastes best after resting!
The first time I made Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake, my family devoured it in minutes! Their compliments made me feel like a pastry chef extraordinaire.
FAQ
Can I make Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best made one day in advance for optimal flavor development.
What can I use instead of eggnog?
You can substitute eggnog with milk mixed with vanilla extract and nutmeg.
How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake?
Baking at low temperatures and avoiding overmixing helps prevent cracks during baking.
Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with this Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake, a luscious dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with the warm spices of eggnog. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, each slice offers a delightful blend of flavors that will transport you to a winter wonderland. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this cheesecake is a must-have on your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp pumpkin spice
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream, full-fat
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- For the crust, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until crumbly. Firmly press into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs one at a time, sour cream, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- Pour filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes until center is set but slightly jiggly.
- After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly; let cool for an hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
