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Holiday Spice Cheesecake Recipe

4.7 from 63 reviews

This Holiday Spice Cheesecake is a festive and creamy dessert that features a spiced graham cracker crust and a smooth filling infused with cinnamon and allspice. Topped with lightly sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s perfect for holiday celebrations and special occasions.

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 the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl until well blended. Press the mixture firmly onto the bottom and about 2 inches up the sides of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Set aside.
  2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese along with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the lightly beaten eggs, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid overmixing. Then stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt until fully incorporated. Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet for stability.
  3. Bake the cheesecake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit 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. Run a knife carefully around the edges of the pan to loosen the cheesecake. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight to firm up.
  4. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken. Add powdered sugar and continue beating until soft peaks form. Transfer the whipped cream topping to a pastry bag fitted with a star tip.
  5. Serve: Garnish each individual slice of cheesecake with the whipped cream frosting and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and ensure sour cream is gluten-free.
  • Do not overbeat the eggs into the cream cheese mixture to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
  • Cooling the cheesecake gradually and refrigerating overnight helps achieve a firm and creamy texture.
  • The whipped cream topping should be added just before serving to maintain its texture and appearance.
  • Using a springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake without damage.

Keywords: Holiday cheesecake, spiced cheesecake, holiday dessert, cinnamon cheesecake, allspice dessert, creamy cheesecake, festive dessert