I’ll start by saying, I don’t like eggnog. I tried it once in elementary school and it was the equivalent of chugging raw eggs. Eggnog and fruit cake are just two holiday traditions I can’t get behind. But cheesecake. Cheesecake is an all-holiday tradition I can celebrate. And eggnog cheesecake makes me feel like less of a scrooge (as if I’m not a Will Ferrell Elf equivalent once November 1st rolls around). If you like both cheesecake and eggnog, this an easy make for your Holiday parties.
Ingredients
- Butter (enough to lightly coat your pan)
- 14 graham crackers, finely ground
- Pure vanilla extract, (add according to taste, I used 1/2 tsp)
- 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- Optional, 3 tablespoons raisins + sliced almonds
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 pound cream cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 3/4 cup eggnog
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon brandy (or half tsp alcohol-free rum extract)
- Pinch of salt
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees, meanwhile, coat a 9 x 9 pan with butter. In a separate bowl, stir together crushed graham crackers, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and coconut oil. Now press the mix into the bottom of the pan and bake until the edges of the crust turn brown (about 15 minutes). Let cool.
In a separate bowl, add cream cheese into a mixer and blend on medium speed for about 2 minutes, gradually adding sugar. Add eggs, yolk, eggnog, flour, brandy (or rum extract), vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Optional, fold in raisins and sliced almonds.
Pour the filling over the crust. Place pan into a roasting pan and add enough water to cover most of the pan. Bake for 45 minutes.
Remove cheesecake from water bath and place it on a wire rack. Let cool for half hour. Refrigerate for 3 hours, or more preferably overnight.
Slice into bars or serve in slices. Dust with grated nutmeg for extra flare and elevated flavor. Add a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling extra fancy.
What is your favorite Christmas treat?
Sounds and looks delicious!