No-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits are one of my favorite ways to bring classic holiday flavors to the table without turning on the oven. These no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits combine creamy cheesecake, cozy eggnog, and tart cranberry sauce into an easy holiday dessert that feels special but requires very little effort.
A Holiday Dessert Rooted in Family Traditions
For our family, the holiday season has always been about spending time together, creating memories, and honoring traditions. Growing up in Guatemala, one of my favorite parts of the holidays was being in the kitchen with my mom and my abuela, helping prepare special desserts for family gatherings.
I still love carrying those traditions into my own home, but these days I also appreciate recipes that don’t require hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love creating no-bake holiday desserts like these no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits. They bring together classic holiday flavors while keeping things simple and stress-free.
Why These No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake Parfaits Work So Well
- No oven or baking required
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Classic holiday flavors with eggnog and cranberry
- Kid-friendly and great for making en familia
- Individual servings that look beautiful on a dessert table
Ingredients for No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake Parfaits
Each ingredient plays a simple but important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Graham cracker crumbs – Create a lightly sweet, crunchy base that contrasts with the creamy filling.
- Cream cheese – Forms the rich, smooth cheesecake layer without baking.
- Sweetened condensed milk – Adds sweetness and helps the cheesecake set properly.
- Eggnog – Brings classic holiday flavor and warmth to the dessert.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Ground nutmeg – Adds a cozy, festive spice that pairs perfectly with eggnog.
- Cranberry sauce – Provides a tart, bright layer that balances the richness.
- Fresh cranberries – Used for garnish and a pop of holiday color.
- Fresh mint leaves – Optional, but adds a fresh, festive finishing touch.
How to Make No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake Parfaits (Overview)
These holiday dessert parfaits are assembled in layers, which makes them easy and fun to put together.
You start by mixing the cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk, eggnog, vanilla, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy. This creates a rich eggnog cheesecake filling without any baking.
Each parfait is layered with:
- A base of graham cracker crumbs
- A layer of eggnog cheesecake mixture
- A spoonful of cranberry sauce
- A final layer of cheesecake filling
After chilling, the parfaits are finished with a light sprinkle of nutmeg and a simple garnish.
Make-Ahead Tips for Holiday Entertaining
These no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits are ideal for making ahead. You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until serving.
For best results, add the fresh cranberries and mint garnish just before serving so everything looks fresh and vibrant.
How to Store No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits
Store leftover parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The graham cracker layer will soften slightly over time, which many people enjoy.
These parfaits are not recommended for freezing, as freezing can affect the texture of the cheesecake filling.
Frequently Asked Questions About No-Bake Eggnog Cheesecake Parfaits
Can no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits be made ahead of time?
Yes, no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated and add garnishes like fresh cranberries or mint just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
Do no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits need to be baked?
No, this is a completely no-bake holiday dessert. The cheesecake filling sets in the refrigerator, making it perfect when you want an easy Christmas dessert without using the oven.
How long do no-bake cheesecake parfaits last in the fridge?
These parfaits will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered. The graham cracker layer will soften slightly over time, but the flavor remains delicious.
Can I use leftover cranberry sauce in cheesecake parfaits?
Yes, leftover cranberry sauce works perfectly in cranberry cheesecake parfaits. It adds tartness and helps balance the richness of the cheesecake filling, making it ideal for holiday desserts.
Are no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits kid-friendly?
Yes, these parfaits are very kid-friendly. There is no baking involved, the steps are simple, and kids can help layer the dessert, making it a great recipe for cooking together during the holidays.
Can I freeze no-bake eggnog cheesecake parfaits?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can change the texture of the cheesecake filling once thawed. For best results, store them in the refrigerator and enjoy within a few days.
More Kid-Friendly Cranberry and Holiday Desserts to Try
These recipes are festive, approachable, and perfect for family gatherings, classroom parties, and making holiday memories together in the kitchen.
Easy Candy Cane Recipes to Make With Leftover Candy Canes
A fun and practical way to use up extra candy canes after the holidays. These easy candy cane desserts are simple enough for kids to help with and add a minty holiday twist to classic treats.
The Best Christmas Cupcakes – Easy Recipes to Make With Kids
These Christmas cupcakes are colorful, festive, and perfect for decorating with kids. From simple frosting techniques to fun holiday toppings, they’re ideal for baking together without stress.
Best Christmas Desserts For Kids
This roundup features a variety of kid-friendly Christmas desserts that are easy to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for holiday parties. Great for parents looking for simple dessert ideas kids will actually enjoy helping with.
Easy Apple Cranberry Monkey Bread
A warm, pull-apart holiday dessert that’s perfect for sharing. The combination of apples and cranberries makes it festive, while the simple prep makes it a favorite for baking with kids.
Cranberry Mango Cinnamon Roll Bites
Soft, sweet, and packed with fruity flavor, these cinnamon roll bites are a fun twist on a classic. Their small size makes them perfect for kids and great for holiday brunches or dessert tables.
Best Christmas Cookies to Make with Kids
A collection of classic and festive Christmas cookie recipes that are easy for little hands to help with. These cookies are perfect for baking days, cookie exchanges, and creating holiday traditions together.
Eggnog Arroz con Leche and Cranberry Parfaits
A holiday twist on a comforting classic, this dessert combines creamy arroz con leche with festive eggnog flavor and cranberry. It’s an easy, no-bake option that works beautifully for family gatherings.
If you have leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving or Christmas, check out my favorite recipes using cranberry sauce, which includes desserts, snacks, and creative ways to reuse cranberry sauce without wasting a thing.
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Healthy and good food and nice.I will keep this as a reference for the upcoming Christmas preparations.