Holiday Indulgence: Eggnog Cheesecake

A Holiday Indulgence: Eggnog Cheesecake is the perfect festive dessert to enjoy during the holidays. The rich, creamy flavor of eggnog combined with a smooth cheesecake base will make it a showstopper at any holiday gathering. Here’s a recipe to make this indulgent treat!

Holiday Indulgence: Eggnog Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional for stability)
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

• Whipped cream
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling
• Crumbled gingerbread cookies or candied pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust:
   • In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   • Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the sugar and beat until combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the eggnog, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is smooth.
   • If you want a more stable cheesecake, add the flour and mix until combined.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Pour the eggnog cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
   • Smooth the top with a spatula.
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be golden brown.
   • Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This will help prevent cracking.
   • After the hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
5. Add the Toppings:
   • Before serving, top the cheesecake with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and optionally, crumbled gingerbread cookies or candied pecans for extra holiday flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice the cheesecake, and enjoy the creamy, eggnog-infused goodness, perfect for your holiday gatherings.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: This cheesecake is perfect for making in advance, as it tastes even better the day after.
• For a Boozy Twist: Add a couple of tablespoons of rum or bourbon to the filling for an extra holiday kick.
• Crust Variations: You can also experiment with an almond or gingerbread crust for a different flavor profile.

This Eggnog Cheesecake is a delicious and festive way to celebrate the holidays, bringing the warm, spiced flavors of eggnog into a decadent dessert that will surely be loved by everyone!