If you have a soft spot for seasonal flavors and crave something rich, creamy, and utterly festive, this Eggnog Cheesecake is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a luxurious blend of classic cheesecake decadence infused with the cozy warmth of eggnog and nutmeg, making every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a special treat to savor with a cup of coffee, this Eggnog Cheesecake elevates the dessert game with its smooth texture and perfectly spiced flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Eggnog Cheesecake calls for ingredients that are simple, classic, and each plays a key role in making the cheesecake irresistibly creamy and flavorful. From the crumbly, buttery crust to the luscious filling and topping, every component contributes to that perfect balance of taste and texture.

Graham cracker crumbs: Use finely crushed crackers for a sturdy, flavorful crust base.

Salted butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps bind the crust together firmly.
Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the cheesecake filling for a perfectly balanced dessert.

Nutmeg: This warm spice is essential for that classic holiday aroma and taste in your cheesecake.
Cream cheese: The star ingredient for creamy texture and tangy depth, at room temperature for smooth mixing.

All-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake’s structure without affecting flavor.
Eggnog: The magic ingredient, infusing that signature festive flavor right into the filling and whipped topping.
Large eggs: Provide richness and structure; room temperature ensures they blend seamlessly into the batter.

Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into a fluffy topping that perfectly complements the dense cheesecake.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping smoothly without grit.
Pearl sprinkles (optional): Adds a playful, elegant touch on top for presentation.

How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper on the bottom, then grease the sides to ensure the crust doesn’t stick. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted salted butter, sugar, and a pinch of nutmeg in a small bowl until the texture resembles damp sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of your pan to form the crust. Baking it for 10 minutes sets a crisp, flavorful foundation that beautifully supports the creamy filling ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Lower your oven temperature to 300°F (148°C) to get ready for the gentle bake that prevents cracks. In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sugar, and flour on low speed—keeping the air out helps avoid cracks on your cheesecake surface. Next, stir in the eggnog and nutmeg to infuse that signature spice and creaminess. Add the eggs one at a time, beating slowly and scraping the bowl sides after each one to maintain a smooth, lump-free batter.

Step 3: Bake with a Water Bath

Pour your rich, silky filling over the cooled crust and smooth it out evenly. Wrap the outside of your springform pan with aluminum foil tightly to protect from water intrusion, then nestle it inside a larger pan partially filled with warm water—this water bath ensures even cooking and prevents cracking. Bake for about 1 hour and 30-40 minutes until the edges look set but the center still slightly jiggles, a sign of perfect cheesecakey wobbly goodness.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven, close the door, and leave the cheesecake inside for 30 minutes to gently finish baking with residual heat. Then crack the door open and let it rest for another 30 minutes to cool further. Remove it from the oven and chill in the fridge for at least 5-6 hours or overnight, allowing it to firm up and develop that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’re after.

Step 5: Make the Whipped Eggnog Topping

Before serving, whip together heavy cream, eggnog, and powdered sugar on high speed until stiff peaks form, creating a luscious, airy topping that balances the cheesecake’s density perfectly. Remove the chilled cheesecake from its pan and pipe or spread the whipped topping over the surface. Don’t forget a sprinkle of nutmeg and, if you like, some pearl sprinkles for an extra festive touch!

How to Serve Eggnog Cheesecake

Garnishes

For a classic holiday look, dust the top of your Eggnog Cheesecake with a little extra nutmeg and cinnamon. Adding pearl sprinkles or edible gold flakes can instantly glam up the dessert for a special occasion, while a few mint leaves bring a fresh color contrast that’s simply stunning.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai for a cozy dessert moment. For extra indulgence, serve alongside warm caramel sauce or a drizzle of dark chocolate for those who love a hint of bittersweet richness to complement the creamy, spiced dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Eggnog Cheesecake into generous wedges and serve on vintage holiday plates to enhance the nostalgic vibe. You can also create individual mini cheesecakes in ramekins topped with a dollop of the whipped eggnog cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, perfect for a charming holiday buffet or party favor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Eggnog Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Keep it covered loosely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors while preserving the freshness of the delicate whipped topping.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesecake without the whipped topping wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and whip fresh topping to dollop just before serving, which keeps the flavors vibrant and textures delightful.

Reheating

Since cheesecake is best served chilled, it doesn’t require reheating. If you prefer it a bit warmer, let slices sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance the creamy mouthfeel without compromising the integrity of the cake.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog in this recipe?

While you technically could, eggnog is what gives this cheesecake its unique festive flavor. Using regular milk won’t provide the spices and creamy richness essential to the classic Eggnog Cheesecake taste.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Mixing on low speed to reduce air bubbles, baking in a water bath, and gradual cooling inside the oven all help keep the cheesecake surface smooth and crack-free, resulting in that perfect presentation.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives and ensure your flour choice in the filling is gluten-free all-purpose flour. The texture and flavor remain just as delightful.

Is it necessary to chill the eggs and cream beforehand?

Bringing eggs and cream to room temperature before mixing helps them blend more evenly into the batter, reducing the chance of lumps or curdling, which is crucial for a smooth, creamy cheesecake.

Can I prepare this Eggnog Cheesecake in advance for a party?

Yes, this cheesecake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before your event to ensure it chills fully and the flavors meld beautifully. Add the whipped topping just before serving for the freshest look.

Final Thoughts

There really is nothing quite like a slice of Eggnog Cheesecake to bring a little extra joy and warmth to your holiday table or any special occasion. Its creamy, spiced layers paired with a buttery crust and fluffy topping make it a definite crowd-pleaser. Dive into creating your own version and watch this cheesecake become a beloved tradition in your home, just as it has in mine!