Introduction
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg is a festive dessert that perfectly captures the warmth and richness of the holiday season. Imagine the creamy, velvety smoothness of classic cheesecake blended with the spiced, custardy flavor of eggnog, topped with a hint of nutmeg for that signature holiday touch. This cheesecake is both luxurious and comforting, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for Christmas dinners, holiday gatherings, or any winter celebration.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines two of my favorite holiday indulgences—classic cheesecake and creamy eggnog—into one luxurious dessert. Every bite is like a warm embrace of holiday flavors: rich cream cheese, silky eggnog, and the gentle spice of nutmeg that lingers just enough to feel cozy and festive.
Another reason I adore this cheesecake is how comforting yet elegant it is. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special enough for a Christmas dinner but also comforting enough to enjoy with a cup of coffee by the fireplace. The crust adds just the right amount of crunch, while the filling is smooth and luscious.
I also love how foolproof it is to make. Even though it looks like something from a bakery, the steps are simple, and the cheesecake holds up beautifully when made ahead of time. That makes it perfect for holiday entertaining—less stress in the kitchen and more time enjoying the celebration.
Most of all, I love this recipe because it brings people together. Cheesecake always has a way of making guests smile, and when paired with eggnog and nutmeg, it becomes a conversation piece that feels festive, nostalgic, and unforgettable.
Why This is a Must-Try Dish
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg is not just another dessert—it’s the very essence of the holiday season captured in a single slice. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Festive Flavors in Every Bite – The creamy, custard-like richness of eggnog blended with the warm spice of nutmeg creates a nostalgic holiday flavor that instantly reminds you of cozy gatherings, twinkling lights, and family celebrations.
- Creamy and Indulgent Texture – Unlike many holiday desserts that can be overly heavy or sweet, this cheesecake strikes the perfect balance—smooth, velvety, and melt-in-your-mouth creamy without being cloying.
- Elegant Yet Simple – While it looks like a professional bakery creation, this cheesecake is surprisingly easy to make at home. The water bath method ensures a silky-smooth texture, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any festive table.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Holiday cooking can be hectic, but this cheesecake is best when made ahead of time. That means less stress on the day of your party and more time to enjoy with family and friends.
- Versatile & Customizable – Whether served plain with a dusting of nutmeg, topped with whipped cream, or drizzled with caramel, it adapts beautifully to your preferences. You can even swap in a gingersnap crust for an extra spiced twist.
- Perfect for Celebrations – This dessert feels special and indulgent, making it ideal for Christmas dinners, holiday potlucks, or even New Year’s Eve gatherings. It’s the kind of dish that earns compliments and recipe requests.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour + 4 hours chilling
- Total Time: ~5 hours 30 minutes (mostly chilling time)
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories per serving: ~380 kcal
Cuisine, Cooking Method & Course
- Cuisine: American (Holiday/Christmas specialty)
- Cooking Method: Baking (water bath recommended for creaminess)
- Course: Dessert
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
For Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- A sprinkle of ground nutmeg or cinnamon
Directions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add sugar and beat until fully combined.
- Mix in eggs one at a time, scraping down sides of the bowl.
- Stir in eggnog, flour, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour filling over the baked crust.
- Place springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the outer pan with hot water (about halfway up the cheesecake pan).
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven, crack door open, and let cheesecake rest for 1 hour inside.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Remove from oven and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg.
How to Serve
- Slice into neat wedges with a sharp knife (wipe between cuts).
- Serve chilled with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel or serve with fresh berries.
Additional Tips & Variations
- Crust Variation: Use gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers for a spicier base.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of rum extract for a true eggnog vibe.
- Topping Ideas: White chocolate shavings, candied pecans, or caramel sauce.
- Make-Ahead: Cheesecake tastes best after resting overnight.
Freezing & Storage
Special Equipment Needed
- 9-inch springform pan
- Large roasting pan (for water bath)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
Conclusion
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg is the perfect blend of creamy indulgence and festive flavor. It’s easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and guaranteed to impress your family and guests. Each bite tastes like holiday cheer, making it an unforgettable dessert for the season.
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg
Description
Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg is a festive dessert that perfectly captures the warmth and richness of the holiday season.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
For the Cheesecake Filling:
For Topping
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Crust : Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
-
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.Add sugar and beat until fully combined.Mix in eggs one at a time, scraping down sides of the bowl.Stir in eggnog, flour, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
-
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake: Pour filling over the baked crust.Place springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the outer pan with hot water (about halfway up the cheesecake pan).Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.Turn off oven, crack door open, and let cheesecake rest for 1 hour inside.
-
Step 4: Chill and Serve: Remove from oven and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg.
