Enjoy the festive flavors of cranberry and eggnog in this delightful cheesecake recipe! Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat during the winter months, this cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the subtle warmth of eggnog.
#### Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup eggnog
- ¼ cup cranberry juice
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: additional cranberries for garnish
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
##### Preparing the Crust:
1. **Preheat Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is ready when you’re done preparing the crust.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar until well combined.
3. **Press Crust:** Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create an even layer across the base.
4. **Bake Crust:** Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until lightly golden. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.
##### Making the Cheesecake Filling:
5. **Cream Cheese and Eggs:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
6. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add in the heavy whipping cream, eggs, salt, eggnog, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
##### Assembling the Cheesecake:
7. **Pour Filling:** Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.
8. **Bake Cheesecake:** Place the pan in a water bath by placing it on a baking sheet and filling with hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
9. **Cool Cheesecake:** Once done, remove from oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack. Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator to chill thoroughly before serving.
##### Garnishing:
10. **Garnish with Cranberries:** Just before serving, garnish the top of each slice with fresh cranberries for an added pop of color and flavor.
11. **Serve:** Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature for best results.
#### Tips & Tricks
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to help achieve a smooth consistency.
- For a richer eggnog flavor, use real eggnog instead of the store-bought variety if possible.
- Letting the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating helps it set properly and prevents cracking when slicing.
#### Conclusion
This cranberry eggnog cheesecake is not only a treat but also a beautiful addition to any holiday table. With its festive flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress guests and become a family favorite!