If you are craving a dessert that combines creamy, festive flavors with effortless preparation, the No-Bake Eggnog Cream Pie Recipe is an absolute game-changer. This pie brings together the nostalgic warmth of eggnog, a perfectly spiced filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust that needs zero baking. It’s creamy, lightly spiced, and set just right thanks to chilling instead of heat, making it a standout treat for holiday gatherings or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a flawless balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role, from the crunchy crust to the luxuriously smooth filling and the subtle spices that make every bite special.
- Graham crackers (8 whole): Crushed into crumbs to form a crisp, buttery base that supports the creamy filling beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (6 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust while keeping it firm.
- Brown sugar (4 tablespoons): Gives the crust a deeper, caramel-like flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (1 stick, melted): Binds the crust mixture together and adds richness without overpowering the taste.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Provides a velvety texture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings that cozy warmth that pairs exquisitely with eggnog.
- Freshly grated nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant note essential for that classic eggnog vibe.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 14-ounce can): Offers creamy sweetness that helps set the filling without baking.
- Golden eggnog (2 cups): The star ingredient delivering flavor and a festive touch.
- Sugar-free instant Jell-O cheesecake mix (1.5-ounce box): Helps thicken the filling to the perfect creamy consistency.
- Sugar-free instant Jell-O vanilla pudding mix (1.5-ounce box): Adds smoothness and richness with a mild vanilla flavor that complements the eggnog.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 1/2 cups): Whipped to fluffy peaks to lighten the filling and contribute to its luscious mouthfeel.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg (for dusting): Finishing touch that makes each slice visually inviting and flavorful.
How to Make No-Bake Eggnog Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by crushing the graham crackers into fine, uniform crumbs using a food processor for the best texture. Mix in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter until everything melds together. Firmly press this mixture along the bottom and sides of a 10-inch pie dish to create an even crust. Pop it into the freezer to chill while you whip up the luscious filling—this step ensures it stays crisp once the pie sets.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese and Spices
Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese for about two minutes until it’s luxuriously smooth and fluffy. This process eliminates any lumps and readies the cream cheese for blending. Then add in the cinnamon and nutmeg, folding those fragrant spices into the mix to bring that unmistakable eggnog pie warmth.
Step 3: Combine Sweetened Condensed Milk and Eggnog
With your mixer on a lower speed, pour in the sweetened condensed milk slowly, blending it fully until the mixture is silky. Next, gradually add the golden eggnog, ensuring the mixture remains even and well combined. This step starts building that rich, creamy foundation for your pie’s filling.
Step 4: Add the Instant Cheesecake and Pudding Mixes
Switch your paddle for a whisk attachment to incorporate the cheesecake and vanilla pudding mixes. Whisk on medium speed for about two minutes until the filling thickens and takes on a smooth, custard-like consistency that will set beautifully when chilled.
Step 5: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a clean bowl or your mixer cleaned of previous ingredients, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. This step is crucial because the whipped cream will give your pie its airy, delicate texture that balances the richness of the cream cheese mixture.
Step 6: Fold in the Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the eggnog mixture with a spatula. Take care not to overmix—you want to maintain the light and airy texture by incorporating it gently, so every bite remains fluffy and smooth.
Step 7: Assemble and Freeze
Pour the filling evenly into your chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface for a clean, elegant presentation. Place the pie in the freezer for at least four hours or overnight; this chilling time is essential for the filling to fully set and develop those signature flavors.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once frozen solid, dust the top of your pie lightly with cinnamon and nutmeg for an inviting aroma and festive flair. Slice it up, serve, and watch your friends and family be wowed by this creamy, dreamy holiday dessert.
How to Serve No-Bake Eggnog Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg on top just before serving. You could also add a dollop of whipped cream or even a few toasted pecans for a delightful texture contrast. These simple touches complement the pie’s richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This pie shines as a dessert on its own, but pairing it with light accompaniments can turn it into an elegant finale. Fresh cranberries, spiced apple compote, or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream serve as excellent partners, balancing richness with fresh or cool notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in mini clear cups topped with crushed graham crackers and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a fun twist during parties. You can also plate slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a few edible gold flakes for a luxurious holiday look that will impress every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover No-Bake Eggnog Cream Pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain its creamy texture and spicy flavor for up to three days, making it an easy make-ahead option for holiday meals or special occasions.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie for longer storage by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. When properly stored, it stays delicious for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best texture.
Reheating
This is a chilled dessert and should be served cold, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply allow the pie to thaw briefly at room temperature for about 10 minutes if it feels too firm straight from the freezer, then enjoy the perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use regular pudding mixes instead of sugar-free?
Absolutely! Regular pudding mixes will work just fine and may enhance the pie’s sweetness. Adjust the sugar in your crust or filling accordingly if you prefer it less sweet.
Is it possible to make this pie without cream cheese?
Cream cheese provides essential texture and tang, so it’s best not to omit it. However, you could experiment with mascarpone for a milder flavor or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative, keeping in mind the texture will change.
Can I substitute the eggnog for something else?
While eggnog is the star here, you can swap it out for vanilla almond milk or even spiced chai for a different but delicious twist. Just note that the classic eggnog flavor is unique and hard to replicate exactly.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Pressing the crust firmly and freezing it before adding the filling helps maintain its crunch. Also, freezing the entire pie ensures the crust stays crisp until ready to serve.
Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
This recipe relies on dairy products to achieve its creamy texture and flavor, so making it vegan would require significant substitutions like plant-based cream cheese and milk alternatives, along with vegan gelatin substitutes. It’s possible, but the texture and taste will be different.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one dessert to bring holiday cheer without turning on the oven, trying the No-Bake Eggnog Cream Pie Recipe is a must. It’s simple to make, irresistibly creamy, and bursting with festive flavor. Once you take that first bite, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a cherished favorite to share year after year.
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No-Bake Eggnog Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This No-Bake Eggnog Cream Pie is a luscious holiday dessert featuring a spiced graham cracker crust filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, eggnog, and sugar-free Jell-O cheesecake and vanilla pudding mixes. Topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg, this chilled pie offers a festive, effortless way to enjoy the flavors of eggnog in a light, airy no-bake treat perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Crust
- 8 whole graham crackers (about 1 1/4 cups crushed)
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups golden eggnog
- 1 (1.5-ounce) box sugar-free instant Jell-O cheesecake mix
- 1 (1.5-ounce) box sugar-free instant Jell-O vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Garnish
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter, then pulse until thoroughly combined. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 10-inch pie dish. Place the crust in the freezer to chill while making the filling.
- Beat cream cheese: Use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment to beat the softened cream cheese for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and fluffy. Add ground cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and eggnog: Reduce mixer speed and gradually pour in the sweetened condensed milk, beating until smooth and scraping down the sides as needed. Slowly add the eggnog, mixing until the filling is even and fully combined.
- Incorporate pudding mixes: Switch the mixer attachment to the whisk and add both the cheesecake and vanilla pudding mixes to the filling. Whisk on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Whip the heavy cream: In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Alternatively, you can clean your stand mixer bowl and whip the cream there.
- Fold whipped cream into filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the eggnog filling mixture, taking care to maintain the airy texture and avoid deflating the cream.
- Assemble and freeze: Pour the completed filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Freeze the pie for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set firmly.
- Garnish and serve: When ready to serve, remove the pie from the freezer and lightly dust the top with ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Slice and enjoy this creamy festive dessert!
Notes
- For best results, chill the pie overnight to ensure it fully sets and is easy to slice.
- If you don’t have a stand mixer, a hand mixer will work for beating the cream cheese and whipping cream.
- Use golden eggnog for a richer flavor, but you can substitute regular eggnog if needed.
- To make the crust extra firm, you can bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes before freezing, though this is optional.
- This recipe uses sugar-free instant pudding mixes to keep the dessert from being overly sweet; adjust sweetness to your preference if desired.
