Christmas Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed gingerbread cookies for a festive twist)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for a holiday touch)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

For the Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Fresh cranberries
• Mint leaves
• Crushed candy canes
• Sprinkles or holiday decorations

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

1. Prepare a Springform Pan:

• Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with aluminum foil to prevent leaks during baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. Combine Crust Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs (or gingerbread crumbs), sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.

1. Press into the Pan:

• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it evenly.

1. Bake the Crust:

• Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool while preparing the filling.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Add Sugar and Sour Cream:

• Add the granulated sugar and sour cream, and continue beating until fully combined.

1. Add Eggs:

• Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Add Flavoring:

• Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using) for a festive flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the Filling:

• Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

1. Bake:

• Place the cheesecake in a large roasting pan and fill the pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan (water bath). This helps prevent cracks.
• Bake for 55-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be set and lightly golden.

1. Cool:

• Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to gradually cool. Then, remove it from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

1. Decorate:

• Once the cheesecake is chilled, decorate the top with whipped cream, fresh cranberries, mint leaves, crushed candy canes, or sprinkles to give it a festive Christmas look.

1. Serve:

• Slice and enjoy your Christmas Cheesecake with family and friends!

Tips:

• Festive Crust: Using crushed gingerbread cookies in place of graham crackers will give the cheesecake a fun holiday twist.
• Toppings: Get creative with holiday-themed decorations! You can use edible glitter, red and green sprinkles, or even drizzle the top with chocolate ganache for extra indulgence.

This Christmas Cheesecake is the perfect holiday dessert — creamy, flavorful, and beautifully festive!