Eggnog Cheesecake Bars for the Holidays

Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are like a cozy hug on a plate, blending the rich, creamy flavors of classic eggnog with the velvety goodness of cheesecake. Imagine biting into a square of this dreamy dessert, where the spices dance on your palate and the graham cracker crust crumbles just right—pure bliss during the holiday season!

Every year, as soon as the first snow falls, my family and I dive headfirst into our holiday traditions. One of my favorites is whipping up these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars while blasting cheesy Christmas tunes (I’m looking at you, Mariah Carey). The aroma fills the kitchen, bringing back memories of laughter and joy shared over delicious treats. Let’s dive into this delightful dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or just a sweet indulgence on a chilly evening.

Ingredients for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a sturdy yet crumbly crust that holds everything together perfectly.
• Butter: Melted unsalted butter is essential to bind the crust ingredients while providing rich flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweeten both the crust and filling; it helps balance out the spices in your cheesecake bars.
• Cream Cheese: Make sure to use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling that will whip up easily without lumps.
• Eggs: You’ll need these to give structure and richness to your cheesecake bars; room temperature eggs work best.
• Eggnog: The star of this recipe! Use store-bought or homemade eggnog for that seasonal flavor everyone loves.
• Nutmeg and Cinnamon: A dash of these spices adds warmth; fresh ground spices bring out deeper flavors in your bars.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper so you can easily lift out your bars later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your lined pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Beat the Cream Cheese

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Eggnog

Next, add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in your eggnog along with nutmeg and cinnamon. Mix until everything is just combined; don’t overmix or you’ll lose that luxurious texture!

Step 5: Bake

Pour your luscious filling over the pre-baked crust. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center—trust me; it will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Once baked, let it cool completely at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight if you can resist! Cut into squares and serve chilled for maximum delight.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra eggnog or whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch!

Enjoy every bite of these delicious Eggnog Cheesecake Bars as they transport you straight into a winter wonderland of sweet nostalgia. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or just a Tuesday night in December, these bars are sure to elevate any occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making the crust, then whip up your cheesecake filling while it bakes. Once cooled, chill the bars to set perfectly before cutting. This sequence ensures you maximize your time in the kitchen and achieve that dreamy texture everyone loves.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the spices; nutmeg or cinnamon can add a personal twist. You could also mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra crunch. The beauty of these bars is their versatility—make them uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Keep your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They taste best chilled, so no need to reheat—just slice and enjoy straight from the fridge!

I once served these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars at a holiday party, and they vanished quicker than you can say “Merry Christmas!” Friends were begging for the recipe, claiming they were better than Santa’s cookies!

FAQs:

What are Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?

Eggnog cheesecake bars are a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of traditional eggnog with creamy cheesecake. They typically feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth eggnog-infused filling, and are often topped with whipped cream or nutmeg for an extra festive touch. These bars capture the essence of holiday celebrations, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

How do I store Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?

To keep your eggnog cheesecake bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about five to seven days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This way, you can savor the flavors of the holidays whenever you like!

Can I make Eggnog Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making eggnog cheesecake bars a day or two ahead can enhance their flavor as they chill and set in the refrigerator. Just remember to let them cool completely before cutting and refrigerating. This preparation method makes them an excellent choice for holiday parties or family gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

Are Eggnog Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

You can easily make eggnog cheesecake bars gluten-free by substituting regular graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives. Look for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or other cookie options that fit your dietary needs. With this simple adjustment, everyone can enjoy these festive treats without worry, making your holiday celebrations more inclusive.

If you’re craving more sweet treats, explore these delightful dessert recipes for your next baking adventure.

Conclusion for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars:

Eggnog cheesecake bars blend the classic flavors of eggnog with creamy cheesecake goodness, making them a festive favorite. With a simple graham cracker crust and rich filling, these bars are easy to prepare ahead of time. Storing them properly ensures you can enjoy their deliciousness throughout the holidays. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself, these bars deliver joy in every bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Enjoy the creamy goodness of Eggnog Cheesecake Bars with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy evenings at home.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

For the Crust:

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. 2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. 3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.

For the Filling:

1. 1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. 2. Gradually add granulated sugar while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. 3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. 4. Pour in eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. 5. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Chill and Serve:
7. 1. Allow to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours or overnight.
8. 2. Cut into squares and serve chilled with a drizzle of extra eggnog or whipped cream if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 70g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 55mg