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Holiday Spice Cheesecake Recipe

4.8 from 109 reviews

This Holiday Spice Cheesecake is a festive dessert perfect for the holiday season, combining a spiced graham cracker crust with a creamy cinnamon- and allspice-infused cheesecake filling, topped with cinnamon-sprinkled whipped cream. This rich and flavorful cheesecake brings warmth and sweetness to any holiday table.

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 this mixture firmly onto the bottom and about 2 inches up the sides of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Set the pan aside.
  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with both brown and granulated sugars until smooth and creamy. Add the lightly beaten eggs and mix on low speed just until combined to avoid overbeating. Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt until all ingredients are well incorporated. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared crust in the springform pan. Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips while baking.
  3. Bake the cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake 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. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cheesecake, then allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate the cheesecake overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
  4. 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 decorative piping.
  5. Serve: When ready to serve, garnish individual cheesecake slices with the whipped cream topping and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for a festive touch. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, ensure to use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and a gluten-free sour cream brand.
  • Do not overbeat the eggs into the cream cheese mixture, as this can cause cracking during baking.
  • Baking on a sheet helps to prevent spills and makes it easier to handle the springform pan.
  • Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight improves the texture and flavor development.
  • Use a gentle touch when running a knife around the edges to avoid damaging the crust or filling.

Keywords: holiday cheesecake, spiced cheesecake, cinnamon cheesecake, allspice dessert, creamy cheesecake, festive dessert, graham cracker crust