Holiday Cheesecakes
Festive and creamy, these holiday cheesecakes feature spiced flavors with nutmeg and brandy extract, perfect for entertaining and satisfying sweet tooth cravings during celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1/3 cup sugar with graham cracker crumbs and softened butter; blend well. Press into 10 (5 oz.) custard cups to within 1/4-inch of the top, using the back of a spoon.
- Beat softened cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in 2/3 cup sugar.
- Add 1/3 cup heavy cream, nutmeg, brandy extract, and seasonings to the cream cheese mixture.
- Beat until blended.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Spoon filling into graham cracker shells and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 325°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Cool completely.
- Loosen edges with a spatula.
- Chill until serving time. Remove from custard cups.
- Garnish with whipped cream and cherries before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter alternative, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. If you prefer a different flavor, vanilla extract can replace brandy extract. To avoid cracks in the cheesecakes, avoid overmixing the eggs. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture. For a festive twist, try adding crushed peppermint candies to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
These holiday cheesecakes are perfect served on a festive dessert platter alongside Laverne'S Icebox Fruit Cake. Consider garnishing with fresh whipped cream and maraschino cherries for an elegant touch. They pair well with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a delightful finish to any holiday meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain their texture, avoid freezing these cheesecakes, as they can become grainy once thawed. If you need to reheat, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, being careful not to overbake.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cheesecakes contains roughly 457 calories, with 5g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of crust for these cheesecakes?
Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed cookies like Oreos or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. Just ensure the texture binds well with butter or margarine for a sturdy base.
How can I tell when the cheesecakes are done baking?
The cheesecakes are done when the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. They will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to cracks and a dry texture.
What can I do if I don't have heavy cream?
If you don't have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and melted butter. This will alter the richness slightly but will still yield a delicious cheesecake.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).