Bring holiday flavor to your kitchen with these creamy, spiced cheesecake bars that capture the cozy taste of Christmas.

Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars for Festive Holiday Baking

A Slice of Holiday Nostalgia

There’s something magical about December evenings—the ones filled with soft carols in the background, twinkling lights reflecting against frosted windows, and the comforting aroma of something sweet baking in the oven. One such night a few years back, I found myself whisking together cream cheese and eggnog in my mother’s kitchen while snow gently drifted outside. The recipe had started as a humble experiment inspired by a leftover carton of eggnog from Christmas Eve, but what came out of the oven was pure holiday joy—Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars that instantly became a new family favorite.

These bars embody everything I love about Holiday Baking Recipes: warmth, nostalgia, and that unmistakable festive aroma of nutmeg and vanilla. As we cut the creamy squares and passed them around the living room, laughter filled the air. Everyone took their first bite, eyes lighting up with that familiar taste of eggnog—silky, rich, and full of holiday spice—yet paired perfectly with the smooth tang of cheesecake. It felt like wrapping up Christmas memories in dessert form.

Baking these Cheesecake Bars Recipes each year has become more than tradition; it’s a ritual that brings together the simple pleasures of the season. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa, unwrapping gifts, or hosting a cozy get-together, these bars fit seamlessly into the moment. They’re the perfect blend of classic Christmas Dessert Ideas and nostalgic flavor that reminds you why holiday baking is so special.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars

These Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are the definition of holiday indulgence—rich, creamy, and bursting with spice—but they’re wonderfully simple to make. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to get perfect results. With minimal prep and a handful of common ingredients, you can have a dessert that tastes bakery-worthy without the stress.

If you’ve ever wondered What Can I Make With Eggnog, this is the answer. The custardy eggnog adds velvety smoothness to the cheesecake layer, while the hint of nutmeg and vanilla brings that distinctive Christmas warmth. They’re ideal for an array of occasions: dessert trays at family gatherings, elegant treats for office holiday parties, or a sweet finish to a cozy night by the fireplace.

Even better, these bars are make-ahead friendly. They chill beautifully, allowing flavors to deepen overnight, which means less last-minute prep during busy holiday weeks. One batch easily serves a crowd, and they slice neatly into perfect squares—ready to dazzle your dessert table.

So whether you’re planning your annual cookie exchange or simply craving the comforting mix of cheesecake and eggnog, these bars promise the taste of the holidays in every bite. They’re proof that you can capture the spirit of the season in a single, creamy square of joy.

Gathering Ingredients for Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Creating the perfect batch of Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars starts with the right ingredients and a few dependable tools. Every component, from the buttery graham cracker base to the creamy eggnog-infused filling, plays a role in crafting that signature festive flavor. Before preheating your oven, take a few minutes to lay everything out—doing so makes the process smoother and the results consistently delicious.

Ingredients for Perfect Holiday Flavor

To make these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need simple but flavorful ingredients that work together to form layers of crunch and creaminess. The table below breaks the list into three parts—the crust, filling, and topping—so you can organize your cheesecake bars recipe like a professional baker.

Component	Ingredients	Purpose/Notes
Crust	2 cups graham cracker crumbs	Provides a crisp, buttery base that complements the creamy filling
	1/4 cup granulated sugar	Adds light sweetness and helps bind the crust
	1/2 cup melted unsalted butter	Creates moisture and richness
Filling	3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened	The classic cheesecake base—smooth, tangy, and rich
	3/4 cup granulated sugar	Balances the tang of cream cheese and sweetness of eggnog
	2 large eggs	Add structure for firm, sliceable bars
	3/4 cup eggnog	Brings the festive holiday flavor and creamy texture
	1 tsp vanilla extract	Deepens flavor and ties the custard-like notes of eggnog together
	1/2 tsp rum extract (optional)	Mimics traditional eggnog flavor without alcohol
	1/4 tsp ground nutmeg	Adds warmth and that cozy Christmas spice
Topping (optional)	Freshly grated nutmeg or whipped cream	For garnish and presentation, adding extra holiday flair

Each ingredient contributes to balance and texture. The graham cracker crust gives structure and crunch, while the sweet spiced filling provides a velvety contrast. Using real eggnog is what transforms this from an ordinary dessert into one of your go-to holiday baking recipes.

Tools You’ll Need for Smooth Baking

9×13-inch baking pan – Ideal for even baking and easily slicing uniform bars.
Parchment paper – Lining the pan prevents sticking and ensures clean edges.
Food processor or rolling pin – Quickly crush graham crackers for the crust.
Mixing bowls – Use separate large and medium bowls for organization.
Electric mixer or stand mixer – Whips the cream cheese and eggnog filling to perfection.
Rubber spatula – For scraping down sides and spreading batter smoothly.
Cooling rack – Ensures gradual cooling and prevents cracks.

Time-saving tip: Melt butter while combining the crust ingredients to shave off prep time. Dishwasher-safe mixing tools also make cleanup a breeze. Having everything prepared sets you up for stress-free baking—and the delicious scent of nutmeg soon filling your kitchen.

How to Make Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Step by Step

Once your ingredients and tools are ready, the fun part begins—bringing together buttery crust, silky filling, and festive aromas that will have your kitchen smelling like Christmas morning. These Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are simple and forgiving, even for novice bakers. Follow these steps closely for foolproof results, and you’ll have a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Preparing the Crust and Filling

Prep the Pan and Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for lifting later. Lightly spray for easy release.
Make the Crust: Combine crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it resembles damp sand. Press evenly into pan bottom. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden; cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs one at a time. Blend in eggnog, vanilla, rum extract (optional), and nutmeg until creamy.
Optional Chill: Chill filling 10 minutes for denser texture and fewer bubbles.
Assemble: Pour filling over crust, spread evenly, and tap lightly to remove bubbles.

Baking and Cooling to Perfection

Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly jiggles. Avoid overbaking.
Cool Gradually: After baking, leave in the oven with door slightly open for 10 minutes. Then cool on a rack for 1 hour.
Chill: Refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for a firm, luscious texture.
Garnish and Serve: Lift out by parchment, slice cleanly with a warm knife, and top with nutmeg or whipped cream.
Store or Share: Keep refrigerated up to five days or freeze for two months wrapped tightly. Perfect for advance holiday baking recipes.

These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars combine the joy of cheesecake with the ease of a bar dessert. Each creamy, spiced bite delivers holiday comfort and elegance—guaranteed to become a Christmas Dessert Idea you’ll return to year after year.

Common Questions About Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought eggnog or make my own? Both work beautifully. Store-bought saves time, while homemade offers custom sweetness and spice. Always use smooth, chilled eggnog for best consistency.
How far in advance can I make these cheesecake bars? Up to two days in advance. Refrigeration enhances the flavor and texture.
Can I freeze eggnog cheesecake bars? Yes—wrap individually, then foil overwrap, and freeze up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
What’s the best way to cut them cleanly? Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water, wiping between cuts for crisp edges.
Can I substitute ingredients for a lighter version? Substitute light cream cheese and low-fat eggnog for a slightly lower-calorie take that stays creamy.

Wrapping Up Your Holiday Baking

Few desserts capture the spirit of the holidays quite like these Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. Creamy, spiced, and perfectly portioned, they bring warmth and cheer to every gathering. Whether as a thoughtful homemade gift or a heartfelt family treat, each bite feels like a celebration.

By adding this Christmas Dessert Idea to your collection of Holiday Baking Recipes, you’ll create moments of comfort and sweetness all season long. So preheat that oven, pour a glass of eggnog, and bake up pure holiday joy—one irresistible cheesecake bar at a time.