🎄 No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake: A Festive Delight ❄️

Bring a touch of holiday magic to your table with this No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake! With a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, creamy peppermint-flavored filling, and a garnish of crushed candy canes, this dessert is as festive as it is delicious. Best of all, there’s no oven required—making it perfect for stress-free holiday gatherings. Let’s whip up this wintery treat!

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups crushed chocolate cookies (about 20 cookies): A rich, chocolatey base.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cookie crumbs into a firm crust.

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy, tangy cheesecake texture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens without the grainy texture.
• 1 tsp peppermint extract: Gives the cheesecake its signature minty flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and balances the peppermint.
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, cold: Makes the filling light and fluffy.
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: Adds festive crunch and flavor.

For Garnish

• Whipped cream (optional): Adds a fluffy, decorative touch.
• Extra peppermint candies (optional): Swirled candies or crushed bits for festive flair.

How to Make No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Mix crushed chocolate cookies and melted butter in a medium bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add peppermint extract and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

1. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
2. Fold in crushed peppermint candies, ensuring even distribution.
3. Spoon the filling onto the chilled crust and spread evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Chill

Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until firm.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Top with dollops of whipped cream and extra crushed peppermint candies.
2. Slice, serve, and enjoy this festive delight!

Pro Tips for Success

• Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Cold Whipping Cream: Keep the whipping cream cold for the best results.
• Quick Crush: Use a food processor or a rolling pin to crush cookies and candies easily.
• Overnight Chill: For the best texture, chill the cheesecake overnight.
• Prevent Candy Cane Melting: Add crushed candies just before folding them into the filling to maintain their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use a different crust?

Yes! A graham cracker crust or vanilla wafer crust would also work beautifully.

Q2: Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q3: What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

You can use mint extract sparingly, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Q4: How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

No need to worry! Since this is a no-bake recipe, cracks aren’t an issue.

Q5: Can I use store-bought whipped cream for the topping?

Yes, store-bought whipped cream works, but freshly whipped cream provides a lighter, fluffier finish.

Q6: How long will this cheesecake last?

Stored in the refrigerator, this cheesecake will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Common Mistakes and Solutions

• Runny Filling: Ensure the whipped cream is whipped to stiff peaks and fold it gently to maintain structure.
• Melting Candy Pieces: Add crushed candies just before folding and serve soon after chilling.
• Loose Crust: Press the crust firmly into the pan and chill it thoroughly before adding the filling.

Enjoy this creamy, minty, and festive dessert—it’s guaranteed to become a holiday favorite! 🎄🍰❄️

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