Peppermint Cheesecake with Chocolate Crust
Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes
Indulge in the festive flavors of this Peppermint Cheesecake with a rich chocolate crust. It's the perfect dessert for holiday gatherings!
This Peppermint Cheesecake combines the creamy texture of traditional cheesecake with a refreshing peppermint twist, all sitting atop a delicious chocolate crust. Perfect for any holiday celebration, it's sure to impress your guests!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with refreshing peppermint
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
A Perfect Holiday Treat
The holiday season is a time for celebration, gatherings, and of course, delicious desserts. This Peppermint Cheesecake with Chocolate Crust is the ultimate festive indulgence that will impress your friends and family. The rich flavors blend seamlessly, creating a dessert that embodies the spirit of the season.
With its creamy texture and delightful peppermint notes, this cheesecake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat. The contrasting chocolate crust adds depth and richness, making each bite a perfect balance of sweet and refreshing. It's the kind of dessert that brings everyone together, making memories even sweeter.
The Magic of Peppermint
Peppermint is more than just a flavor; it evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia during the holidays. This cheesecake captures that magic beautifully. The peppermint extract enhances the creaminess of the cheesecake, while the crushed peppermint candies on top provide a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
Not only does peppermint taste great, but it also has a refreshing quality that can cleanse the palate after a hearty meal. This makes the Peppermint Cheesecake an ideal dessert to serve after your festive feasts, leaving your guests feeling satisfied yet refreshed.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
To achieve a smooth and creamy texture in your cheesecake, it’s essential to use softened cream cheese. Take it out of the refrigerator at least an hour before you start mixing. Mixing on low speed after each egg addition helps prevent excess air, which can cause cracks during baking.
Another key tip is to bake the cheesecake in a water bath if you want to ensure even cooking and prevent cracks. Simply wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water. This method creates a humid environment, resulting in a velvety cheesecake.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Chocolate Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing well. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled chocolate crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Before serving, garnish with crushed peppermint candies.
Serve chilled and enjoy your festive dessert!
Serving Suggestions
This Peppermint Cheesecake is versatile and can be served in various ways. For an elegant presentation, slice the cheesecake into small pieces and plate them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
Consider pairing this dessert with a warm beverage like hot cocoa or a spiced latte. The combination of flavors will enhance the overall experience and keep your guests cozy during the chilly holiday season.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is crucial to maintain freshness. Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors long after your holiday gathering.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. This way, you can savor a piece of the holiday cheer whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different flavors to personalize your cheesecake. You could swap out the peppermint extract for orange or almond for a unique twist. Adding a layer of fruit, such as raspberries or cherries, can also provide a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
For a more decadent version, try incorporating chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling or using a brownie base instead of the chocolate crust. These variations will give you endless opportunities to impress your guests with new flavors while keeping the essence of this delightful dessert.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can substitute chocolate cookies with graham crackers or Oreo cookies.
→ How long can I store the cheesecake?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well.
→ What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream.
Peppermint Cheesecake with Chocolate Crust
Indulge in the festive flavors of this Peppermint Cheesecake with a rich chocolate crust. It's the perfect dessert for holiday gatherings!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Sweet Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chocolate Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing well. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Finally, stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled chocolate crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Before serving, garnish with crushed peppermint candies.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g