Eggnog Cheesecake

Name: Eggnog Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 10 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz. gingersnap cookies, crushed to a fine crumb; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust); 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (for crust); 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (for crust); 6 tbsp salted butter, melted; 4 (8 oz.) bricks cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 4 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 1/2 cups eggnog; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (for filling); 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp rum extract; 1/2 – 1 tsp ground cinnamon (to taste); 1 can Original Reddi-Wip® (for topping); Ground cinnamon (for garnish, optional)

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Creamy, spiced, and irresistibly festive, this Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is a holiday dessert you’ll crave all season long. With warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a velvety eggnog-infused filling, this cheesecake is both nostalgic and elegant. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or simply love eggnog desserts, this recipe delivers a rich and satisfying bite every time — all on top of a crunchy, buttery gingersnap crust.

Why This Eggnog Cheesecake is the Ultimate Holiday Dessert

This cheesecake isn’t just about seasonal flavors — it’s about texture, balance, and celebration. The rich cream cheese base is lightened with real eggnog, and the gingersnap crust adds a spicy crunch that perfectly complements the creamy interior. This Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is:

Festive & Flavorful: Loaded with holiday spices and rum extract for authentic eggnog taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Chills overnight, making holiday planning easier.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serves 12 and looks stunning as a centerpiece.

Whether you’re an eggnog lover or a cheesecake fanatic, this dessert blends both worlds into one delicious experience.

What You’ll Need for the Holiday Cheesecake Base

Each ingredient in this Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust plays a vital role in its final flavor and structure.

Crust Ingredients

Gingersnap Cookies: Offer bold spice and a crunchy texture that anchors the creamy filling.
Granulated Sugar: Enhances sweetness and helps the crust crisp as it bakes.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Infuse warmth and holiday spice into the base.
Salted Butter: Binds the crust while adding rich, buttery flavor.

Cheesecake Filling

Cream Cheese: The star of the show, providing the dense and creamy body.
Eggs: Give the cheesecake structure and ensure a smooth, rich texture.
Eggnog: Adds signature holiday flavor and velvety moisture.
Granulated Sugar: Balances the tang of cream cheese with gentle sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps stabilize the filling without making it dense.
Rum Extract: Delivers the classic eggnog essence without alcohol.
Cinnamon: Layers spice throughout the filling for warmth and complexity.

Topping

Reddi-Wip: Light and airy, it adds a sweet contrast to the rich cheesecake.
Ground Cinnamon: Optional, but beautiful for garnish and extra spice.

Smart Substitutes to Customize Your Cheesecake

Don’t have every ingredient on hand? Here are smart alternatives for making this cheesecake work for your pantry or dietary needs.

Ingredient Swaps

No Gingersnaps? Use graham crackers with a dash of molasses and extra cinnamon.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute vegan cream cheese and use a dairy-free eggnog alternative (almond or oat-based).
No Rum Extract? Use vanilla extract with a dash of real dark rum for deeper flavor.
Sugar-Free Version: Replace sugar with a suitable granulated alternative like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.

How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

This cheesecake may look elegant, but it’s surprisingly easy to assemble. Follow these steps to ensure a flawless result.

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Prepare a 10″ springform pan by lining the base with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the crust: Crush gingersnap cookies in a blender or food processor. Combine crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter until evenly moistened.
Press the crust into the bottom and at least 1 inch up the sides of the pan. Use a flat-bottomed glass to compress it tightly and evenly.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well and scraping the bowl after each.
Add eggnog and mix until fully incorporated. Then add sugar, flour, rum extract, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and velvety.
Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 1 hour. After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest inside for another hour.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 6–8 hours or overnight to fully set.
Top with Reddi-Wip and a sprinkle of cinnamon just before serving for that festive finishing touch.

Holiday Baking Tips for Perfect Results

Don’t Overmix: Overbeating the batter can introduce air bubbles and cause cracks. Mix just until combined.
Room Temp Ingredients: Softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs mix more smoothly, preventing lumps.
Test for Doneness: The center should jiggle slightly like gelatin. If it’s still liquidy, bake another 5–10 minutes.
Use a Water Bath (Optional): For an ultra-smooth top, bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking.
Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush this! Overnight chilling gives the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Flavor Variations

Pair this Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust with festive favorites or try new spins for different occasions.

Toppings: Crushed candied pecans, caramel drizzle, or fresh nutmeg shavings.
Make it Mini: Use a muffin tin and paper liners for individual cheesecakes.
Boozy Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of real dark rum in place of part of the eggnog for an adult twist.
Spiced Crust Variations: Try biscoff cookies or cinnamon graham crackers for a twist.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Cheesecake holds well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it (without toppings) for up to 1 month.

Eggnog is synonymous with Christmas, and this cheesecake captures that spirit in every bite. The creamy richness mimics classic eggnog, while the gingersnap crust evokes memories of holiday cookies. It’s a stunning dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas parties, or winter gatherings — elegant, nostalgic, and absolutely indulgent.

Whether served as the grand finale of a festive feast or sliced up for a cozy evening in, Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is a dessert that brings warmth and joy with every forkful.

A Sweet Holiday Finale

This Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is more than a dessert — it’s a festive tradition in the making. With every silky bite, the warm spices, creamy texture, and nostalgic eggnog flavor bring holiday memories to life. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday dinner, a winter celebration, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy.

Make it ahead, slice it with pride, and top it generously with whipped cream — because holiday desserts should feel as special as the season itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Eggnog Cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is best made at least one day ahead. After baking and cooling, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 6–8 hours or overnight. This not only sets the cheesecake but also enhances the flavors.

Can I freeze Eggnog Cheesecake?

Absolutely. You can freeze the cheesecake (without whipped topping) for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Add Reddi-Wip and cinnamon just before slicing for the best texture and appearance.

What can I substitute for eggnog in this recipe?

If you’re out of eggnog or prefer a lighter version, you can use a blend of whole milk and heavy cream with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of rum extract. However, for authentic flavor, traditional eggnog is recommended.

More Relevant Recipes

Turtle Pumpkin Cheesecake: This rich and creamy cheesecake blends classic pumpkin flavor with chocolate and caramel, making it a decadent autumn dessert much like the eggnog version — but with a turtle twist for chocolate lovers.
Apple Cider Cheesecake: A festive fall treat, this apple cider-infused cheesecake offers sweet-tart flavor balanced with warm spices — a great seasonal variation for those who enjoy fruit-forward cheesecakes.
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake: This dessert layers the comforting elements of apple pie and cheesecake with a salty-sweet caramel drizzle, perfect for fans of richly flavored, seasonal cheesecake variations.

Eggnog Cheesecake – Best Recipe with Gingersnap Crust

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Why This Eggnog Cheesecake is the Ultimate Holiday Dessert