Peppermint White Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
This Peppermint Cheesecake is a festive, creamy dessert perfect for holiday celebrations. Featuring a crunchy Oreo cookie crust infused with butter and salt, the rich cheesecake filling is enhanced with peppermint and vanilla extracts, studded with crushed peppermint candies and chopped white chocolate for a refreshing, sweet finish.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Crust
- 28 regular Oreo Cookies
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 pinch Salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 pounds cream cheese, softened (four 8-ounce packages)
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 3/4 cup chopped white chocolate
- Prepare the crust: Crush the Oreo cookies finely, either by using a food processor or placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Combine the crushed cookies with melted unsalted butter and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a firm crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and granulated sugar, continuing to beat until fully incorporated and silky in texture.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract to infuse the cheesecake with bright, minty flavors.
- Incorporate candies and chocolate: Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies and chopped white chocolate pieces into the batter, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled Oreo crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 60 to 70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Avoid overbaking to keep the cheesecake creamy.
- Cool and chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, so the cheesecake firms up and flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve: Carefully release the springform pan sides before slicing. Garnish with extra crushed peppermint candies or white chocolate shavings if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the festive flavors.
Notes
- Be sure to soften the cream cheese fully to avoid lumps in the cheesecake batter.
- Using a water bath while baking can help prevent cracking on the cheesecake surface.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for the best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For an extra minty punch, drizzle with peppermint chocolate sauce before serving.
Keywords: Peppermint Cheesecake, Holiday Dessert, Oreo Crust, Minty Cheesecake, White Chocolate, Festive Dessert