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How to Make a Holiday Spice Cheesecake Recipe

How to Make a Holiday Spice Cheesecake Recipe

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This Holiday Spice Cheesecake blends creamy richness with warm festive spices like cinnamon and allspice, nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with cinnamon-sprinkled whipped cream, it’s the perfect dessert to celebrate the season with family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

  • 13/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (GF Option: use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs)
  • 1/3 cup butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Filling:

  • 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups (16 ounces) sour cream (GF Option: use a gluten-free brand)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well blended. Press the mixture firmly onto the bottom and 2 inches up the sides of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Set aside to firm up slightly.
  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with both sugars until smooth and creamy. Add the lightly beaten eggs and beat on low speed just until combined to avoid overmixing. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
  3. Assemble and bake: Pour the filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
  4. Cool the cheesecake: Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, preventing cracks. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight to set firmly.
  5. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken. Add the powdered sugar and continue beating until soft peaks form. Transfer the whipped cream to a pastry bag fitted with a star tip for easy decorating.
  6. Serve: Just before serving, garnish each individual slice with a dollop of the whipped cream topping. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the whipped cream for a festive touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, ensure to use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and sour cream certified gluten-free.
  • Do not overmix the eggs into the filling to prevent cracking during baking.
  • Chilling overnight is important for the cheesecake to set properly and develop flavor.
  • You can decorate with additional holiday spices or fresh fruit for variation.
  • Room temperature ingredients help achieve a smoother filling consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: Holiday cheesecake, spiced cheesecake, cinnamon cheesecake, festive dessert, cream cheese dessert