Description
This No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake is the perfect holiday dessert! Creamy, minty, and bursting with festive flavor, it’s a show-stopper for any celebration. With a chocolate cookie crust and a velvety peppermint-flavored filling, this dessert is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (about 20 cookies)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Additional crushed peppermint candies
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
- Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Stir in crushed peppermint candies.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
- Spoon the peppermint cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set.
Step 4: Decorate and Serve
- Once set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
- Garnish with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings as desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling.
- Chill Time: Be patient—letting it set overnight gives the best results.
- Crust Alternatives: Swap chocolate cookies for graham crackers or vanilla wafers if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6+ hours
- Cuisine: American