Discover the Ultimate Peppermint Cheesecake Recipe for the Holidays!

Peppermint Cheesecake is the ultimate holiday dessert, combining the rich, creamy goodness of classic cheesecake with the refreshing burst of peppermint. As the temperatures drop and the air grows crisp, this festive creation is the perfect way to indulge in the flavors of the season. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or searching for a show-stopping finale to your holiday feast, this Peppermint Cheesecake is sure to impress and delight your guests.

Table of Contents

Indulging in the Ingredients for Peppermint Cheesecake

The key to an exceptional Peppermint Cheesecake lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into making this delectable dessert:

Crust Ingredients:

• 22 Oreo cookies, pulsed into crumbles
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:

• 24 oz (3 packs) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp corn starch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 cup Andes peppermint crunch chips

Frosting Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 8 oz whipped topping (like COOL Whip)
• 1/2 cup finely diced Andes peppermint crunch chips

Decorating Options:

• Crushed candy canes
• Ghirardelli Peppermint chocolates
• Lindt Peppermint Chocolate truffles
• Andes peppermint crunch thins or chips
• Peppermint bark

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crafting Peppermint Cheesecake

Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining or greasing it.

Create the Oreo Crust

Pulse the Oreo cookies in a food processor or blender until they become fine crumbs. Mix the Oreo crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the mixture is well combined. Gently fold in the Andes peppermint crunch chips.

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled Oreo crust. Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually. Then, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature.

Chill the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has reached room temperature, cover it and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the perfect texture and flavor development.

Creating the Peppermint Cheesecake Frosting

To make the luscious peppermint frosting, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping and the diced Andes peppermint crunch chips, being careful not to overmix.

Decorating Your Peppermint Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake is chilled and ready, spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top. Get creative with your decorations! Sprinkle crushed candy canes, arrange Ghirardelli Peppermint chocolates or Lindt Peppermint Chocolate truffles, or add a festive touch with Andes peppermint crunch thins or chips, or peppermint bark.

Serving and Enjoying Peppermint Cheesecake

Peppermint Cheesecake is the perfect showstopper for holiday gatherings, Christmas parties, or any festive occasion. Pair it with a steaming mug of coffee, hot chocolate, or a festive cocktail for a delightful pairing. You can also serve it alongside other holiday treats, such as gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark, for a truly indulgent dessert spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Peppermint Cheesecake without a graham cracker crust?

Absolutely! This Peppermint Cheesecake recipe uses an Oreo cookie crust, but you can easily substitute it with a graham cracker crust or even a nut-based crust if you prefer. The key is to ensure the crust is firmly pressed into the pan before adding the cheesecake filling.

How do I prevent cracks on the surface of a Peppermint Cheesecake?

To help prevent cracks, make sure not to overmix the cheesecake batter and avoid opening the oven door too frequently during baking. Also, be sure to let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar before transferring it to the refrigerator. This slow cooling process helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking.

Can Peppermint Cheesecake be made ahead of time?

Yes, Peppermint Cheesecake can be made in advance. Once the cheesecake is completely chilled and the frosting is added, it can be covered and refrigerated for up to 5 days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert for holiday gatherings or busy schedules.

What is the best way to add peppermint flavor without it being too strong?

The key to achieving the perfect peppermint flavor balance is to use a combination of peppermint extract and Andes peppermint crunch chips. The extract provides a concentrated peppermint taste, while the chips add a delightful texture and a more subtle, natural peppermint flavor. Start with the recommended amounts in the recipe and adjust to suit your personal preferences.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Chocolate Mint Cookies – Pair these festive cookies with your Peppermint Cheesecake for a delightful holiday dessert duo.
• Eggnog Cheesecake – Indulge in another creamy, seasonal cheesecake variation for your holiday gatherings.
• Vanilla Bean Cheesecake – A classic cheesecake recipe that can be enjoyed year-round.

Conclusion

Peppermint Cheesecake is a delightful and festive dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season. With its rich, creamy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor, this cheesecake is sure to impress your guests and become a new tradition in your household. So, gather your loved ones, brew a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and indulge in the ultimate Peppermint Cheesecake experience. Enjoy every bite and savor the flavors of the holidays!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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