Get ready to delight your taste buds with my No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake Bars! This easy recipe combines creamy cheesecake flavors with festive eggnog, making it perfect for holiday gatherings. You won’t need to turn on the oven, so you can enjoy all the fun without the hassle. Join me as I share the simple steps to create this luscious treat that everyone will love. Let’s whip up some holiday cheer!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Whipped cream, for topping
To make these no-bake eggnog cheesecake bars, gather all your ingredients first. The graham cracker crumbs form the base, giving a lovely crunch. The melted butter helps hold the crust together. You need cream cheese, which gives the filling its rich and creamy texture. Powdered sugar adds sweetness, while eggnog brings that festive flavor.
Add pure vanilla extract for depth. Ground nutmeg and ground cinnamon bring warmth and spice. Finally, whipped cream is perfect for topping each bar. This mix of ingredients is simple but makes a big impact. You can use store-bought eggnog or make your own for a personal touch.
Each ingredient plays a key role, so make sure you have them all ready. This ensures your bars turn out perfect and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Crust
Start by mixing 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup of melted butter. Stir until the crumbs absorb the butter. This mixture should feel like wet sand. Next, press the crumb mix firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. Use your hands or a flat bottomed glass for an even layer. Chill the dish in the fridge for 15 minutes. This helps the crust hold together.
Making the Filling
In a large bowl, beat 2 cups of softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. This step is key for a nice texture. Slowly add in 1 cup of powdered sugar while mixing. Keep stirring until it is well combined. Next, blend in 1 cup of eggnog. Don’t forget to add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix everything for 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy.
Assembling and Chilling
Now, pour the creamy filling over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even look. Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This helps the bars set nicely. When they are firm, use the edges of the parchment paper to lift the cheesecake out. Cut into 16 equal bars. Enjoy every delicious bite topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the right texture, start with softened cream cheese. Cold cream cheese can make lumps in your filling. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. This step is key for a creamy cheesecake.
Mix your ingredients well for a smooth texture. Use an electric mixer on medium speed. Start slowly and increase the speed as you mix. This way, the ingredients blend evenly without any lumps.
Presentation Enhancements
Garnishing is fun and can make your bars look fancy. Top each bar with a generous swirl of whipped cream. You can also sprinkle a little extra nutmeg on top for a festive look.
Consider using holiday-themed decorations. Place a sprig of fresh mint or holly on each bar. This adds color and a touch of holiday spirit. You can even arrange the bars on a pretty platter for serving.
Adjusting Sweetness and Flavor
If you want to lower the sweetness, cut back on the powdered sugar. Start with ¾ cup and taste as you mix. You can always add more if needed.
Try adding different spices for unique flavors. Instead of nutmeg, use ground ginger or allspice. These spices can give your cheesecake bars a new twist that keeps things exciting!

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make your eggnog cheesecake bars even more fun! Try using different flavored eggnogs. Pumpkin spice or even vanilla can add a new twist. You can also add chocolate or caramel layers. This will make your dessert richer and more exciting. Just swirl in some melted chocolate or caramel on top of the filling before chilling.
Dietary Alternatives
If you need gluten-free options, swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free crumbs. You can find these at most stores now. For those who want dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese. Many brands offer great taste and texture. Just make sure to check the package for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your cheesecake bars with drinks like hot cocoa or spiced cider. These drinks bring out the holiday spirit. You can also serve them with other festive desserts. Consider cookies or mini pies to create a dessert spread. This will make your holiday table look amazing!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
To keep your no-bake eggnog cheesecake bars fresh, store them in the fridge. First, make sure the bars are fully set. Then, cover them tightly with plastic wrap. This will prevent them from drying out. You can also use an airtight container. The bars will last up to a week in the refrigerator. However, they taste best within the first few days.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bars! To freeze, cut the bars into pieces first. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
When you are ready to enjoy them, take the bars out of the freezer. Place them in the fridge to thaw overnight. This helps keep their creamy texture. You can also thaw them at room temperature for about two hours. Serve them chilled, and enjoy the festive flavor!
FAQs
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are set?
The cheesecake bars will be firm to the touch. They should not jiggle when you shake them. If you press gently, they should hold their shape. A good test is to insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready.
Can I use homemade eggnog?
Yes, you can use homemade eggnog. Just make sure it is thick and creamy. If your eggnog is thinner, you may want to reduce the amount slightly. This keeps the filling from becoming too runny. Homemade eggnog can add a fresh and unique flavor.
How can I make these bars ahead of time?
You can make these bars a day or two in advance. Just store them in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap. They taste even better after sitting for a while. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
This blog post covered the tasty eggnog cheesecake bars, detailing ingredients and steps. You learned how to make the crust and the creamy filling. We shared tips for texture and presentation. You also found variations to match your taste and dietary needs. Finally, we discussed storage and prepping tips.
Enjoy making these festive treats. They are simple and perfect for any gathering!
