Oh, sweet friends, there’s truly nothing quite like the magic of baking during the holidays, is there? The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg drifting through the kitchen instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. And these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars? They capture that warm, festive feeling in every creamy, spiced bite. Imagine a rich, velvety cheesecake infused with classic holiday eggnog, all nestled on a perfectly spiced crust that sings of winter. It’s a dessert that feels both elegantly special and wonderfully comforting, a true showstopper for any festive gathering.
I remember one year, trying to impress my family with a new holiday dessert. I spent hours fretting, but when these bars came out of the oven, chilled to perfection, the smiles around the table were all the reward I needed. It’s those shared moments, the laughter and the pure joy over a sweet treat, that truly make baking so fulfilling for me.
This recipe for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly approachable for home bakers of all levels, promising a rewarding experience with minimal fuss. Plus, the make-ahead nature means less stress on your holiday baking day! My top tip for any cheesecake? Always ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature for the smoothest batter imaginable.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting these delightful bars begins with a few simple, heartwarming ingredients that truly sing of the holiday season. The stars of our show are undeniably the luscious cream cheese and the rich, festive eggnog, which come together to create that unforgettable creamy texture and seasonal flavor. We’ll also build a wonderfully spiced graham cracker crust, a perfect counterpoint to the smooth filling. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements ready for you in the recipe card below.
How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Whipping up these delightful Eggnog Cheesecake Bars is a journey of simple, joyful steps! We’ll start by pressing our spiced graham cracker crust into place, creating a fragrant foundation. Next, the creamy eggnog-infused cheesecake filling comes together with ease before baking to golden perfection. A gentle chill ensures that luxurious texture, and a cloud of homemade eggnog whipped cream makes it utterly irresistible, ready to be sliced and shared.
Creamy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars with Spiced Graham Cracker Crust
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the bars out later.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Stir well to combine.
- Pour the melted butter over the crumb mixture and stir until fully moistened and well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. You can use the bottom of a glass or your fingers to get a firm, even layer.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment (or an electric hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar and all-purpose flour to the cream cheese. Beat on low speed until just combined, then increase to medium and beat for another minute until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Gradually beat in the eggnog, rum extract, vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg until thoroughly incorporated. The mixture will be a bit thinner.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed only until each egg is just incorporated. Do not overmix after adding the eggs, as this can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.
- Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the pre-baked graham cracker crust in the pan. Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes at 325°F (160°C), or until the edges are set and lightly golden, but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Turn off the oven, prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 30 minutes. This slow cooling helps prevent cracking.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours. Once cooled, cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set fully.
- Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Carefully peel away the parchment paper.
- In a clean, cold mixing bowl, combine the very cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1 tbsp eggnog. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the eggnog whipped cream evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Slice into 16 bars (4×4 cuts) using a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between each cut for neat edges. Dust lightly with ground nutmeg before serving.
Notes
To truly master these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars and ensure every bite is perfection, I’ve gathered a few little secrets from my own baking journey:
For the creamiest filling, make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps everything blend smoothly without lumps, giving your cheesecake that signature silky texture. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference!
My Secret Trick: After baking, once your cheesecake bars have cooled on the counter, I always let them chill in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, or even better, overnight. This isn’t just for serving; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a perfectly set, easy-to-slice bar.
When preparing your spiced graham cracker crust, press it firmly into the pan. This creates a sturdy base that won’t crumble when you cut into your beautiful bars. I like to use the bottom of a flat-bottomed glass to get an even, compact layer.
Don’t overmix your cheesecake batter once the eggs are added. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which can lead to cracks in your finished Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. Mix just until combined for a perfectly smooth result.
Fun Variations for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
One of my favorite things about home baking is the freedom to play and make a recipe truly your own! These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are wonderfully adaptable, and I love thinking up new ways to enjoy them.
Festive Crust Swaps
While our recipe calls for a spiced graham cracker crust, if you’re feeling extra festive, you could certainly make the “gingersnap crust” that our title hints at! Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for crushed gingersnap cookies. My sister always asks me to do this; she loves the extra spicy kick it adds to the creamy eggnog filling, making these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars even more enchanting.
Boozy Boost
For an adults-only treat, you can enhance the rum extract by adding a tablespoon or two of actual dark rum or brandy to the cheesecake filling. A friend loves when I swirl a tiny bit of bourbon caramel sauce on top of the bars before chilling for an extra layer of decadence!
Citrusy Zing
A little citrus zest can brighten any dessert! Try adding a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to either the cheesecake batter or, for a more subtle hint, sprinkle some over the whipped cream topping. It adds a lovely, refreshing note that complements the rich eggnog beautifully.
Chocolate Drizzle Delight
Who can resist chocolate? A simple drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate over the finished, chilled bars before serving adds a touch of elegance and an extra layer of flavor that’s always a hit.
What to Serve With Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
These delightful Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are a festive treat all on their own, but pairing them with a little something extra can elevate the experience even further! I love thinking about how to make a dessert feel complete.
For a classic holiday pairing, a warm mug of hot cocoa with a dollop of whipped cream is simply divine. My mom always pairs these bars with hot cocoa in winter; it’s such a cozy combination. A perfectly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant spiced tea also makes a lovely accompaniment, balancing the richness of the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars.
If you’re looking for something fresh, a scattering of fresh cranberries or a light berry compote on the side can add a wonderful tart contrast to the creamy sweetness. And for the ultimate indulgence? A small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting ever so slightly alongside a bar is absolutely heavenly. Sometimes, a quick sprinkle of extra ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top right before serving is all you need to make them feel extra special!
How to Store Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Ensuring your beautiful Eggnog Cheesecake Bars stay fresh and delicious is key, especially when you’re planning ahead for holiday gatherings! Proper storage means you can enjoy these festive treats for days.
Refrigerator Storage
Once your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are completely chilled, the best place for them is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them wonderfully fresh for up to 3-4 days. I like to place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent any sticking and keep them looking pristine.
Freezer-Friendly Tips
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these bars! It’s such a lifesaver during busy holiday seasons. After they’ve thoroughly chilled and are firm, cut the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars into individual servings. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Serving from the Freezer
When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen bar, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours to thaw, or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. My personal tip? A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving brings back that “just-baked” charm and makes them look irresistible!
Nutritional Benefits
While we often bake for joy, it’s lovely to know that our homemade treats can offer a little something extra! These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars, crafted with wholesome ingredients like eggs and dairy, provide a good source of protein and calcium. When enjoyed in moderation, this dessert is a satisfying and nourishing treat that blends indulgence with the simple goodness of your kitchen.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I make these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are perfect for making in advance. They need a good chill time, so preparing them a day before you plan to serve them is ideal. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making them even more delicious.
Faq 2
What can I use if I don’t have rum extract?
If rum extract isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with vanilla extract for a slightly different, but still lovely, flavor. Alternatively, a tiny splash of real rum or brandy can be used, keeping in mind it will add a bit of alcohol.
Faq 3
Why did my cheesecake crack on top?
Cracks often happen from overbaking or sudden temperature changes. To prevent this, don’t overmix the batter, and allow your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars to cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar after baking before moving them to the counter.
Faq 4
Can I use light cream cheese or eggnog?
You can, but I recommend using full-fat cream cheese and regular eggnog for the best, creamiest texture and richest flavor in these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. Lighter versions might result in a slightly less decadent finish.
Conclusion
There you have it, my sweet friends – a recipe for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars that promises to bring a touch of holiday magic and an abundance of joy to your table. Baking these treats isn’t just about the delicious outcome; it’s about the memories we create in the kitchen, the shared smiles, and the simple pleasure of making something wonderful with our own hands. So go on, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite festive music, and let’s create some sweet memories together. Happy baking!