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Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake

Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake

Smooth Eggnog Cheesecake is a decadent holiday dessert that combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the warm, spiced flavors of eggnog, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla. Perfectly creamy and velvety, this festive cheesecake is ideal for any holiday gathering or celebration, offering a luscious texture and a nostalgic holiday aroma that delights every palate.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup eggnog
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter in a bowl, mixing until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Chill the crust while preparing the filling to help it set properly.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Then add the eggnog, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix gently until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and form a silky batter.
  3. Bake Slowly: Pour the filling over the chilled crust. Bake in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 325°F or 163°C) using a water bath to maintain moisture and prevent cracking. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
  4. Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature to prevent sudden temperature changes that could damage the texture. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it firm up and develop its full, creamy consistency before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
  • Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps prevent cracks and promotes even cooking.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid incorporating too much air, which causes cracking.
  • Cool the cheesecake slowly at room temperature before refrigeration to maintain texture.
  • Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture significantly.

Nutrition

Keywords: egg nog cheesecake, holiday dessert, festive cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, spiced dessert, holiday baking, nutmeg cinnamon cheesecake