Eggnog Cheesecake

Ingredients

Photo: Leigh Beisch; Styling: Dan Becker

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

3 tablespoons butter, melted

3 packs (8 oz. each) cream cheese, at room temperature

1 cup sugar, divided

4 large eggs, at room temperature

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/3 cup brandy

2 teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg, divided

1 cup whipping cream

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 300°. Pour graham cracker crumbs into a 6 1/2-in.-diameter spring form pan with a rim at least 3 in. high; add butter and stir to mix. Press mixture evenly over bottom and 1/2 in. up side of pan.

2. In a large bowl, with a mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down inside of bowl as needed. Beat in flour, brandy, and 1 1/2 tsp. nutmeg just until incorporated. Pour into crust-lined pan and bake until small cracks are visible on sides but center jiggles when cake is gently shaken, 40 to 50 minutes.

3. Run a thin-bladed spatula between cheesecake and pan rim. Put cheesecake on a rack and let cool completely. Cover and chill until cold, at least 3 hours.

4. Remove pan rim. If any moisture has collected on cake, gently blot dry with a paper towel. Cut cake slices with a serrated knife, running knife under hot water and wiping clean after each slice.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together cream and remaining 1/4 cup sugar until stiff peaks form. Dollop whipped cream onto cheesecake and sprinkle with remaining 1/2 tsp. nutmeg.

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Bakers' Tip: Run a spatula around the inside of the pan just after baking to help the cheesecake firm up without cracking.