Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for stability)
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Ground nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish
- Chocolate shavings or festive sprinkles
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gradually mix in the eggnog until fully incorporated. If using, add the flour for added stability.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour to cool gradually.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with ground nutmeg or cinnamon. Add chocolate shavings or festive sprinkles if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 60