Is there anything that screams “holidays” more than a creamy, dreamy dessert? I think not! And these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars? Wowza. They’re like a party in your mouth, seriously. You get that smooth, rich cheesecake texture, but then BAM! That subtle spice of eggnog just hits you. It’s pure magic.

I remember when I was little, my grandma would always make a big batch of homemade eggnog. The whole house smelled like nutmeg and vanilla, it was the best! These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars totally bring me back to those cozy holiday memories. They’re festive, fun, and oh-so-delicious. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a holiday staple. I mean, who can resist a good cheesecake bar, especially when it’s spiked with eggnog?! Not me, that’s for sure!

Why You’ll Love These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Quick and Easy Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Let’s be real, who has *all* day to bake during the holidays? These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are ready in under an hour! Score!

Perfectly Festive Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Seriously, the eggnog spice? It just *screams* holidays. These bars are the perfect addition to any Christmas cookie platter!

A Crowd-Pleasing Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Dessert

I’ve never brought these to a party and had leftovers. Never! Everyone always raves about them – they’re a guaranteed hit, trust me!

Ingredients for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Okay, let’s gather our goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these amazing Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. I always say, good ingredients = good results, so don’t skimp!

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For the Crust

You’ll need 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs (that’s about 10 full sheets of graham crackers, crushed). Then grab 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/3 cup of melted butter. I usually microwave my butter in 30-second intervals ’til it’s just melted – watch it so it doesn’t explode!

For the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Filling

Alright, for the creamy dreamy filling, you’re gonna need 24 ounces of cream cheese. Make sure it’s softened, or you’ll end up with lumpy cheesecake (ew!). Next, 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of your favorite eggnog (the good stuff!), and 2 large eggs. Don’t forget a teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Freshly grated nutmeg is amazing if you have it!

How to Prepare Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Okay, here comes the fun part! Let’s get down to business and make these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! Just follow along, and you’ll be munching on these babies in no time!

Making the Graham Cracker Crust for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Now, in a bowl, mix together those graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything’s nicely combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Let it cool slightly while you make the filling.

Preparing the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Filling

In a large bowl (or your stand mixer, if you’re fancy!), beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. No lumps allowed! Then, stir in the eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Mix until everything is just combined – don’t overmix! Overmixing can lead to cracks in your cheesecake. Oops, nobody wants that!

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Baking the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Alright, gently pour that creamy filling over the cooled graham cracker crust. Spread it out evenly. Now, pop the whole thing back into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set, but the center still has a *slight* jiggle. Don’t worry if it jiggles a bit – it’ll set up as it cools. Trust me!

Cooling and Refrigerating Your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

This is the hardest part: patience! Let the Eggnog Cheesecake Bars cool completely on a wire rack. Then, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This chilling time is super important because it allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to meld together. Plus, they’re just way easier to cut when they’re cold. You’ll thank me later!

Tips for Perfect Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Want to take your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars from “good” to “OMG amazing?” Here are a few little secrets I’ve learned along the way. These tips will seriously up your cheesecake game!

Ensure Your Cream Cheese is Softened for the Best Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Seriously, don’t even *think* about using cold cream cheese! It needs to be nice and soft, or you’ll end up with lumpy cheesecake. Yuck! Let it sit out on the counter for at least an hour.

Don’t Overbake Your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Overbaking is the enemy of cheesecake! You want the edges set, but the center should still have a little jiggle. It’ll firm up as it cools, promise!

Chill Your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Thoroughly

I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but resist! Chilling these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars is key for both texture *and* flavor. The flavors meld together and the bars become perfectly firm and sliceable. Plus, cold cheesecake is just the best, right?

Variations on Your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Okay, so you’ve nailed the basic Eggnog Cheesecake Bars recipe? Awesome! Now, let’s get a little crazy and try some fun variations! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these bars your own!

Spiced Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Want to kick up the spice factor? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cloves to the filling! It’ll give these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars an extra warm and cozy flavor. Yum!

Gingersnap Crust Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Instead of a graham cracker crust, try using gingersnap cookies! Just crush them up and follow the same crust recipe. The gingersnap crust adds a delicious, spicy twist!

Toppings for Your Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Let’s talk toppings! A dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg are classic, but why stop there? Drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle with chocolate shavings, or even add some candied pecans! Get creative!

Storing and Reheating Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Got leftover Eggnog Cheesecake Bars? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Honestly, they never last that long at my house! You *can* technically freeze them, but I think they taste best fresh. If you must, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying – no need to reheat, they’re fab cold!

FAQ About Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Got questions about these Eggnog Cheesecake Bars? I got answers! Here are a few of the most common things people ask me about this recipe.

Can I Freeze Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?

Yep, you totally can! But honestly, they’re best fresh. If you have to, wrap them *really* well in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving. Just know, the texture *might* be a little different.

Can I Make Eggnog Cheesecake Bars Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! In fact, I usually do! These Eggnog Cheesecake Bars are perfect to make a day or two in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge. The flavors actually meld together and get even better over time!

What is the Best Way to Cut Eggnog Cheesecake Bars?

Okay, this is key! Use a warm, clean knife. I run mine under hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This helps you get those nice, clean slices. Trust me, it makes a difference!

Nutritional Information for Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Okay, a little disclaimer: nutrition info can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use (brands, etc.). This is just an estimate, not gospel!

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Enjoy Your Homemade Eggnog Cheesecake Bars!

And that’s it! Go ahead, take a bite and tell me what you think! Leave a comment below, give the recipe a rating, or share your pics on social media! Happy baking!