Celebrate the festive season with these Creamy Eggnog Cheesecake Cups, a decadent yet effortless holiday dessert. Combining the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the warm, aromatic spices of eggnog, these individual cups are perfect for entertaining, family gatherings, or a cozy treat after dinner. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luxuriously creamy filling, and optional festive garnishes, every bite delivers a perfectly balanced flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.

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Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Cups

Ultra-Creamy Texture: Each cup melts in your mouth with a rich, smooth finish.
Festive Flavor Profile: Nutmeg, vanilla, and eggnog create a seasonal delight.
Individual Servings: Perfect for parties, easy portion control, and elegant presentation.
Quick & Stress-Free: Minimal prep and simple baking make it ideal for holiday hosting.
Customizable: Options for chocolate, citrus, dairy-free, or adult variations.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup eggnog
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground nutmeg

For the Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup brown sugar

Optional Garnish

1 cup whipped cream
A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Muffin tin or individual baking cups
Oven
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until the mixture resembles damp sand.
Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each cup to form a ¼-inch layer.
Bake for 8 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a clean bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Slowly add eggnog and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then fold in nutmeg. Mix gently to keep batter airy.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

Divide the filling evenly among the prepared crusts, filling almost to the top.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 18–20 minutes, until edges are set and centers jiggle slightly.
Remove from oven, let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to fully set.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Top with whipped cream and a light sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon before serving.
Optional: Crushed graham crackers or chocolate shavings add extra visual appeal.

Pro Tips

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smooth, lump-free filling.
Avoid Overmixing: Too much air can create cracks or a dense texture.
Monitor Baking Closely: Centers should jiggle slightly for creamy perfection.
Firmly Pack Crust: Prevents crumbling and supports the rich filling.
Chill Thoroughly: Essential for clean slices and well-set texture.

Substitutions & Variations

Nut-Free: Use crushed gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers.
Chocolate Twist: Fold in ½ cup melted chocolate for a festive chocolate-cheesecake combo.
Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use plant-based eggnog.
Citrus Zest: Add 1 tsp orange or lemon zest for a refreshing holiday flavor.
Adult Version: Stir in a splash of Baileys or rum extract for an adult-friendly dessert.
Mini Cups: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized, party-ready treats.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make Ahead: Bake crusts and prepare filling up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble just before chilling for maximum freshness.
Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncovered until firm (~2 hours), wrap in plastic, store in freezer-safe container up to 2 months.
Thawing: Refrigerate overnight; do not microwave to preserve texture.

Serving Ideas

Pair with spiced hot cocoa or chai latte for a cozy holiday treat.
Serve alongside gingerbread cookies or cranberry-orange salad to balance richness.
Top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Add mulled wine or warm cider for festive dinner parties.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 350 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Cholesterol: 75 mg
Sodium: 210 mg
Sugar: 18 g
Vitamin A: 600 IU

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Yes, but full-fat ensures the creamiest texture.

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Q: Can these be made dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based eggnog.

Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: Yes, they can be assembled and chilled 24 hours in advance.

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Q: How do I prevent cracking?
A: Avoid overmixing and do not overbake; centers should still jiggle slightly.

Q: Can I make these mini-sized?
A: Yes, a mini muffin tin works perfectly for bite-sized servings.

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These Creamy Eggnog Cheesecake Cups are the ultimate festive dessert — rich, smooth, and infused with warm holiday flavors. Perfect for gatherings, last-minute treats, or a cozy night in, they combine indulgence with simplicity, making them a seasonal favorite for everyone at your table.