These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars make me think of twinkling lights and warm sweaters. They’re creamy, rich, and taste just like Christmas in every bite. The mix of nutmeg and cinnamon makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.

I love making these during the holidays. They’re easier than a full cheesecake but still feel fancy and special. Every time I share them, people always ask for the recipe.

If you love eggnog, you’ll go crazy for these bars. They’re smooth, sweet, and perfect with a cup of coffee by the fire. Let’s bake some holiday cheer together.

Why You’ll Love These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Holiday Favorite: Whether you’re hosting a party or gifting these bars, they’ll be the highlight of the season!
Rich & Creamy: The smooth, velvety texture of the cheesecake filling perfectly complements the spiced flavor of eggnog.
Perfect for Meal Prep: With just a few simple steps, you can make a large batch and enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Easy to Make: No need to worry about complicated techniques—these bars are straightforward and perfect for beginners.
Portable: Unlike a traditional cheesecake, these bars are easy to cut into individual servings and take anywhere.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into the recipe, here are the essential tools to have on hand:

9×13-inch baking pan – This is the perfect size for your cheesecake bars.
Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple of medium and large bowls for mixing the crust and filling.
Hand mixer or stand mixer – To easily blend the ingredients for the cheesecake filling.
Spatula – For scraping the sides of the bowls and ensuring everything is mixed thoroughly.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to getting the best results.

Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make these rich and creamy bars:

For the Crust:

Crushed Gingersnap Crumbs (2 cups) – These will create a perfectly spiced, crunchy base. The gingersnap flavor will add a warm, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with the eggnog.
Melted Butter (4 tablespoons) – Butter binds the crumbs together and gives the crust a rich, buttery flavor.

For the Filling:

Cream Cheese (16 ounces, softened) – Cream cheese is the foundation of a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling. It gives the bars their signature texture.
Granulated Sugar (1/3 cup) – Sweetens the filling just enough to balance out the spice from the eggnog.
Eggs (2 large) – Eggs provide structure and help the filling set.
Eggnog (1/2 cup) – The star ingredient! Use a good-quality eggnog for the creamiest and most flavorful filling.
Sour Cream (1/3 cup) – Adds a bit of tang and creaminess, enhancing the overall texture of the filling.
Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon) – This spice will give the filling that quintessential holiday flavor.
Whipped Cream (optional, for topping) – For a decorative and indulgent touch, you can top the bars with a dollop of whipped cream.

Variations for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Spiced Up: If you love a more intense spice flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or clove to the filling along with the nutmeg.
Gingerbread Crust: Want to take the crust to the next level? Try making your own gingerbread cookies, then crush them for a more robust flavor.
Add Chocolate: For a chocolate twist, drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the top or swirl it into the cheesecake filling.
Nut-Free Version: If you prefer a nut-free crust, simply swap the gingersnap crumbs for a graham cracker crust. It’ll still be delicious, but with a different flavor base.
Dairy-Free Option: To make this dessert dairy-free, use non-dairy cream cheese and a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed gingersnap crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes until it’s golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated. The mixture should be light and fluffy.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is combined.

Add the eggnog, sour cream, and nutmeg, and mix until everything is smooth. This is where the magic happens—your filling will take on that delightful holiday flavor.

3. Pour the Filling Over the Crust

Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the eggnog cheesecake filling over the gingersnap crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

4. Bake the Cheesecake Bars

Bake the bars at 325°F (163°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is just slightly jiggly. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. After cooling, transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This helps the cheesecake bars firm up and allows the flavors to develop.

5. Serve the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

When you’re ready to serve, cut the cheesecake into squares. If you like, top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra nutmeg for a festive touch. These bars are best served chilled and make the perfect holiday treat!

How to Serve Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

These bars are a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Here are some ideas for serving them:

At Holiday Parties: Cut into small squares and arrange them on a platter for easy serving. Perfect for dessert tables or gift exchanges.
With Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these bars alongside a warm beverage to complement their creamy texture and spiced flavor.
Gift Them: Package the bars in a festive tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift. Friends and family will love receiving a homemade treat like this.
For Breakfast (Yes, Really!): Treat yourself to one of these bars alongside your morning coffee. The spices and creamy filling make it a perfect seasonal breakfast indulgence.

Storing Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Refrigeration: Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’ll stay delicious and fresh, though they may lose a bit of their firmness over time.

Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them in the refrigerator overnight, and they’ll be just as tasty as the day you made them.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Bar)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	230
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	22g
Protein	3g
Sugar	17g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	100mg

(Note: These are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Conclusion

Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert. They combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the festive flavors of eggnog and nutmeg, all nestled on a spiced gingersnap crust. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, sharing them with family, or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit. Best of all, they’re easy to make and perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy the festive flavors all season long.