Name: Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 16 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup eggnog; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; Whipped cream; Ground nutmeg or cinnamon

Introduction

Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are a festive and creamy treat perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. Combining the rich flavors of eggnog with smooth cheesecake, these bars offer a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Easy to make and sure to impress, they are a must-try for cheesecake lovers.

A square piece of creamy cheesecake with three clear layers sits on a white plate with light brown speckles. The bottom layer is a thin, crumbly brown crust. The middle layer is thick and smooth, light cream color. The top layer is slightly dusted with cinnamon or cocoa powder. On top, there is a swirl of white whipped cream, topped with a single brown star anise. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Filling:

16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup eggnog
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Garnish (optional):

Whipped cream
Ground nutmeg or cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.

Step 4: Bake the crust in the oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until well blended.

Step 7: Pour the eggnog filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.

Step 8: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake center is set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 9: Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill completely.

Step 10: Once chilled, cut into squares and optionally garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.

For a boozy twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of rum or bourbon to the filling mixture.

Press the crust down firmly with the bottom of a glass for an even, compact base.

Chill the bars overnight for firmer, easier-to-cut slices.

For a gluten-free version, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these cheesecake bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes cutting easier.

Can I substitute the eggnog with milk or cream?

Eggnog provides a unique flavor and richness, but in a pinch, you can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half mixed with a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon. The taste will be less traditional but still delicious.