Ah, the joy of holiday desserts! There’s something magical about the way a sweet treat can bring everyone together, especially when it’s a creamy, luscious cheesecake that fills the air with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg. This Christmas cheesecake recipe is my go-to for gatherings—trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser! I remember the first time I made it for my family during the holidays; I was a bit nervous, but as soon as they took that first bite, their eyes lit up! Seeing their smiles and hearing their compliments made all the effort worth it. It’s become a cherished tradition, and now I can’t imagine the holidays without it. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s make some holiday magic together with this delightful cheesecake!

Ingredients List

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the crust)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
4 large eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature for easier mixing)
1/2 cup sour cream (adds creaminess and a slight tang)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (helps to stabilize the filling)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for that warm holiday spice)
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds a lovely depth of flavor)
1/4 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)

How to Prepare Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Preheating is crucial; it ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly, giving you that perfect creamy texture without any surprises. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Prepare the Crust

Now, let’s get that crust ready! In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup of sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. The mixture should feel like wet sand. Next, press this buttery goodness firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Make sure it’s nice and even—this is where all that delicious filling will sit!

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar together until it’s smooth and creamy—oh, the aroma will start wafting! Then, add the vanilla extract and mix it in well. Now, here’s the trick: add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to keep the batter silky! Finally, gently incorporate the sour cream, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until everything is harmoniously blended. Don’t overmix; we want that cheesecake to be light and fluffy!

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the luscious batter over your crust in the springform pan and spread it out evenly. It’s time for baking! Pop it in the oven for about 55-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. It’ll firm up beautifully as it cools!

Cool and Refrigerate

Once it’s baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is super important—don’t rush it! After it’s cooled, cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you can wait!). Chilling allows the flavors to deepen and gives you that creamy texture we’re all craving. When it’s time to serve, you’ll be rewarded with a cheesecake that’s not just a treat, but a holiday masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep time—get it ready in just 30 minutes!
Rich, creamy flavor that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for holiday gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Festive appearance that looks stunning on any dessert table.
A delightful blend of warm spices, making it feel like a big hug in every bite.
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings like whipped cream or seasonal fruits.
Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert.
Vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy this holiday treat!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s dive into some pro tips to ensure your Christmas cheesecake turns out absolutely perfect! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference.

Use a Water Bath: For that ultra-creamy texture, consider baking your cheesecake in a water bath. Just wrap the bottom of your springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent leaks, place it in a larger roasting pan, and fill the outer pan with hot water. This gentle heat helps prevent cracks and keeps your cheesecake smooth.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start mixing. This ensures a smoother batter without lumps, which means a silkier cheesecake.
Avoid Overmixing: When adding the eggs and other ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks as it bakes and cools.
Check for Doneness: Remember, your cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. If you bake it too long, it can crack—so keep an eye on it!
Cool Gradually: After baking, let your cheesecake cool in the pan for about an hour before transferring it to the fridge. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks and ensures a lovely texture.
Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, I highly recommend chilling your cheesecake overnight. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it easier to slice. Patience is key here!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping cheesecake that will delight everyone at your holiday gathering. Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this Christmas cheesecake recipe! Here are some ideas that will take your cheesecake to the next level:

Chocolate Delight: Add 8 ounces of melted chocolate to the filling for a rich, chocolatey twist. You can also swirl in some chocolate ganache on top before serving for that extra indulgence!
Fruit Toppings: Fresh berries or a fruit compote make a beautiful, vibrant topping. I love using strawberries or raspberries, but you can mix and match with whatever is in season!
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the filling before baking, then use a knife to swirl it around for a deliciously sweet surprise in every bite.
Pumpkin Spice: For a festive fall twist, mix in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and a bit more of those warm spices—think extra cinnamon and a pinch of ginger. It’ll feel like autumn even in December!
Candy Cane Crush: Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes can add a delightful crunch and a minty flavor. Just sprinkle them on top after chilling for a festive touch!
Nutty Crust: Swap out half of the graham cracker crumbs for finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a different texture and flavor in your crust!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Personalizing your cheesecake not only makes it more special, but it’s also a fun way to get creative in the kitchen. Enjoy experimenting!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice of this delightful Christmas cheesecake. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

Calories: 350
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g

These delicious slices not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a balance of flavors and textures. Just remember, indulging in this creamy cheesecake is part of the holiday joy, so savor every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store those tempting leftovers (if there are any!). The best way to keep your Christmas cheesecake fresh is to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure it’s sealed well to avoid any unwanted fridge odors. You can also store it in an airtight container. It’ll stay delicious in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

If you’re like me and want to make this cheesecake ahead of time, you can also freeze it! Just ensure it’s completely cooled and wrapped tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. No need to worry about reheating; this cheesecake is best served chilled, so just slice and enjoy right from the fridge!

Keeping these storage tips in mind will help you savor every last bite of your holiday masterpiece, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with loved ones. Happy storing!

FAQ Section

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that while it will reduce the fat content, the texture might be a bit different—still delicious, but not quite as rich and creamy. If you go this route, make sure to let it soften at room temperature before mixing to help it blend smoothly.

How do I store leftovers?
To keep your cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or pop it into an airtight container. It’ll last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve!

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day or two ahead. It allows the flavors to develop beautifully as it chills. Just make sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for that perfect texture!

What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute! It’ll give you that same creamy texture with a slight tang. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for, and you’ll be golden!

How should I serve this cheesecake?
You can serve the cheesecake plain or dress it up with your favorite toppings! Whipped cream, fresh fruits, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce make for fantastic additions. For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed candy canes or a dusting of cinnamon on top before serving. Enjoy!

Christmas Cheesecake Recipes: 7 Steps to Holiday Bliss

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious Christmas cheesecake recipe that is perfect for the holiday season.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
Add sour cream, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
Pour the batter over the crust in the springform pan.
Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set.
Let it cool before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

Use a water bath for a creamier texture.
Top with whipped cream and festive toppings.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: christmas cheesecake recipes

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