When the holiday season rolls around, the scent of eggnog dancing through the air evokes warm memories of gatherings, laughter, and indulgent treats. This year, I decided to elevate that beloved classic with a delicious twist: Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. The first bite is pure magic, a creamy blend of rich flavors that instantly transforms any occasion into a festive celebration.
Picture this: a buttery graham cracker crust, perfectly spiced filling, and just the right hint of nutmeg to cozy up your taste buds. These bars are not only a delightful addition to your dessert table but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for busy hosts or those looking to impress family and friends without the fuss of a full cheesecake.
So grab your mixing bowl, channel that holiday spirit, and let’s create a dessert that’s sure to become a cherished tradition! Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat to savor the season.
Why are Eggnog Cheesecake Bars a must-try?
Decadent flavor: Each bite bursts with rich eggnog and warm spice, making them a holiday favorite.
Effortless preparation: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can impress guests.
Perfect for gatherings: These bars are easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for parties.
Versatile for all seasons: Enjoy them not just during the holidays, but as a cozy dessert year-round.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: The creamy texture and festive flavor are sure to win hearts, so don’t hesitate to share this delightful recipe with friends or check out our collection of festive desserts.
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Graham cracker crumbs – A buttery base that provides a delightful crunch.
• Brown sugar – Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the crust.
• Ground cinnamon – Infuses the crust with warm, holiday spices.
• Unsalted butter – Helps bind the crust together while adding richness.
For the Filling
• Cream cheese – The star ingredient that gives these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars their creamy texture.
• Granulated sugar – Balances the flavors for a perfect sweetness.
• All-purpose flour – Aids in stabilizing the filling, ensuring it sets beautifully.
• Eggnog – Brings that festive flavor and creamy consistency you crave during the holidays.
• Large egg – Provides structure and helps the filling set perfectly.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor, making it more indulgent.
• Ground nutmeg – Delivers a classic holiday spice that complements the eggnog beautifully.
• Optional: pinch of ground cloves or cinnamon – Add a delightful touch of warmth if desired; adjust to your taste!
How to Make Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy lifting later.
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Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
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Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar and flour, mixing until fully combined. Scrape down the sides, then mix in eggnog, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg on low speed until just combined.
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Combine layers: Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is just set—a little jiggle is fine! Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
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Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cooled bars for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. Once fully set, lift them out using the parchment overhang, slice into squares, and lightly dust with extra nutmeg before serving.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Letting cream cheese soften ensures a smooth filling without lumps; a common pitfall is incorporating cold ingredients.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the filling until just combined to keep the texture creamy without whipping in excess air; this will help your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars set perfectly.
- Watch for Doneness: The bars should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out; overbaking can lead to cracks and dryness.
- Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature before refrigerating; this prevents condensation from forming and keeps them silky.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: A dusting of nutmeg not only adds charm but also enhances the holiday visual. Consider fresh whipped cream for that festive flair!
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful bars and make them uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use coconut milk eggnog for a creamy, dairy-free version.
- Gluten-Free: Swap graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to create a delicious gluten-free base.
- Chocolate Twist: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent chocolate-egg nog combination that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the cheesecake filling for added crunch and a warm, nutty flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add an additional 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice into the filling for extra holiday warmth and spice that dances on your palate.
- Fruit Infusion: Top the bars with a layer of cranberry sauce or a fruity compote for a sweet-tart contrast that brightens up each bite.
- Mini Bars: Pour the batter into a mini muffin tin instead of a pan for bite-sized cheesecake bars that are perfect for holiday parties.
- Layered Delight: Create a layer of eggnog-flavored whipped cream on top after chilling, elevating your dessert to a whole new level of indulgence.
What to Serve with Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?
Looking to create the perfect festive spread? Enhance your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars with delightful pairings that will warm hearts and elevate the celebration.
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Spiced Hot Cocoa: The cozy richness of spiced hot cocoa complements the creamy filling perfectly, adding a comforting vibe for holiday gatherings.
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Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop on top brings a luscious lightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, spiced flavors of the bars.
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Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries cut through the sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast that enlivens your dessert table.
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Apple Cider: A glass of warm, spiced apple cider echoes the holiday spices in the cheesecake, creating a comforting, nostalgic experience for all your guests.
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Gingerbread Cookies: These iconic cookies bring a festive crunch and spice that enhance the creamy bars, ensuring every bite feels like a celebration.
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Pecan Pie: For those who love traditional flavors, the nutty richness of pecan pie complements the cheesecake beautifully, creating a decadent dessert duo.
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Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of cinnamon ice cream melts decadently over the bars, offering a delightful creamy texture and warmth with every bite.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices of chai tea pair wonderfully with the eggnog flavor, creating a warm and soothing drink option to enjoy alongside your dessert.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in the festive flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the graham cracker crust up to 3 days in advance and store it tightly wrapped in the fridge. Additionally, the cheesecake filling can be mixed ahead of time; simply refrigerate it (covered) and use within 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling over the crust and follow the regular baking instructions. To maintain their creamy texture, make sure to chill the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight after baking. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Eggnog Cheesecake Bars with minimal effort during busy holidays!
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Fridge: Store leftover Eggnog Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen bars, transfer them to the fridge overnight to thaw. For a quick option, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving—just enough to soften the creamy texture.
Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of eggnog should I use for the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought eggnog or homemade, whichever you prefer. If you’re concerned about raw eggs in homemade versions, opt for pasteurized eggnog to ensure safety and flavor. Just be sure it’s fresh!
How long can I store Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?
You can keep your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re stored properly to maintain their creamy texture and delicious flavor!
Can I freeze Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?
Yes! To freeze, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer them to the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to thaw.
How can I avoid cracks in my Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?
Very! To ensure a smooth, crack-free surface, focus on a few key steps:
- Mix the filling until just combined to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Bake the bars at a consistent temperature without overbaking. They should still be slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out.
- Allow them to cool gradually at room temperature before moving to the fridge, preventing condensation and cracks.
Can I use dairy-free substitutes in this recipe?
Certainly! If you or your guests are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut eggnog or almond milk eggnog. Just be mindful that these alternatives may alter the flavor slightly, so choose high-quality products for the best results!
Is it safe to use eggnog in the filling?
Yes! If you’re using pasteurized eggnog, it’s completely safe. This gives the bars that rich, festive flavor without worrying about raw eggs. If you’re unsure about the source, it’s always better to stick with reputable brands to ensure safety!
Deliciously Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy lifting later.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar and flour, mixing until fully combined. Scrape down the sides, then mix in eggnog, egg, vanilla extract, and nutmeg on low speed until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is just set—a little jiggle is fine! Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Refrigerate the cooled bars for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. Once fully set, lift them out using the parchment overhang, slice into squares, and lightly dust with extra nutmeg before serving.