If you’re searching for a festive and creamy dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season, this Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake is just what you need! With its rich and velvety texture, this cheesecake is infused with refreshing peppermint flavor, making it a perfect treat for gatherings, holiday dinners, or just a special dessert for yourself.

What makes this cheesecake so special is the delightful combination of cream cheese, whipped cream, and peppermint extract, all beautifully topped with a chocolate ganache. This Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a showstopper that will impress your guests!

This Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake features a buttery chocolate cookie crust filled with a creamy peppermint cheesecake filling, topped with luscious chocolate ganache and garnished with crushed peppermint candies. Ready in about 1 hour (plus chilling time), this cheesecake is a delightful addition to any dessert table!

With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this scrumptious recipe in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Exciting Story:

The first time I made Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake, it was for a holiday party with friends. I wanted to create something that was both festive and delicious. As I mixed the creamy filling and added the peppermint extract, the refreshing aroma filled my kitchen, instantly putting me in the holiday spirit!

Once the cheesecake was chilled and topped with chocolate ganache, it looked absolutely stunning. The first slice revealed a beautiful, creamy texture, and the first bite was pure bliss—the combination of peppermint and chocolate was a heavenly match. This Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake has since become a holiday favorite, bringing joy to every gathering!

Why This Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake?

• Flavorful and Festive: The combination of peppermint and chocolate creates a delightful holiday flavor that everyone loves.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this cheesecake is perfect for busy holiday seasons!
• Stunning Presentation: The chocolate ganache and crushed peppermint make it a beautiful centerpiece for any dessert table.

How to Make Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled chocolate crust and spread it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
6. Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is set, pour the chocolate ganache over the top, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for garnish.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled. Your Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake is ready to be enjoyed!

Tips For Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For the best texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
• Let It Chill: Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight will enhance the flavors and set the texture perfectly.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Crust: Feel free to use graham cracker crumbs or a gluten-free cookie option for the crust.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling for added texture.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use low-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute in the filling for a lighter option.

Closing For Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake

And there you have it! This Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake is a beautiful and delicious dessert that will impress anyone who tries it. Don’t forget to let us know how your cheesecake turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delightful options!

Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake

How long can I store leftovers?
This cheesecake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor.

Can I use flavored extracts?
Yes! Vanilla or almond extract can be used instead of peppermint for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when it’s done chilling?
The cheesecake should be firm to the touch and set in the center.

Can I add other flavors?
Yes! A splash of chocolate extract can enhance the chocolate flavor in the crust.

What if I want to make it sweeter?
Feel free to increase the sugar in the cheesecake mixture to taste.

What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful complement!

How can I make this more festive?
Consider garnishing with additional crushed peppermint or festive sprinkles for a colorful presentation!

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
This dessert is best served cold and should not be reheated.

Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes! Dark chocolate can be used for a richer ganache topping.

How can I enhance the flavors?
Consider adding a dash of espresso powder to the cheesecake filling for added depth!

Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: Cake, Christmas, Dessert

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped

• For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• For Garnish:

• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Directions

• Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
• Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully incorporated.
• Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled chocolate crust and spread it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.
• Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
• Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
• Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is set, pour the chocolate ganache over the top, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for garnish.
• Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled. Your Easy Velvety Peppermint Cheesecake is ready to be enjoyed!