Create impressive, creamy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars perfect for any holiday gathering. These bars deliver classic eggnog flavor in a foolproof, easy-to-serve format. Ben and the team perfected this recipe so you can entertain with confidence.
Author:Ben Androshov
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:5 hours 40 minutes
Yield:24 bars
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup eggnog (full-fat recommended)
2 large eggs
For Topping (Optional):
Whipped cream
Extra dash of nutmeg or cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
Gradually beat in the sugar and flour until just combined. Mix in the vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
Slowly pour in the eggnog and mix on low speed until incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing only until each egg is blended into the batter. Do not overmix.
Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven, prop the door open slightly, and let the bars cool in the oven for 30 minutes. This prevents cracking.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before cutting.
Cut into bars. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of spice before serving.
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese and eggnog for the best creamy texture.
Chilling the bars thoroughly is essential for clean, neat cuts.
If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, increase cinnamon and nutmeg slightly.