In my kitchen, this No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake is a holiday classic that never fails to bring smiles. With its creamy texture and refreshing minty flavor, it’s the perfect dessert for festive gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even a special treat to indulge in after a long day. This cheesecake is incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake is not only delicious, but it’s also a delightful and inviting dessert perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet peppermint offers a festive twist that is sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s a no-bake recipe, which means you can avoid turning on your oven and still serve a stunning treat.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
- Servings: 8-10
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making this No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake is a breeze! It begins with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a rich cream cheese filling infused with refreshing peppermint. Once assembled, it just needs time to chill and set in the fridge.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
For a fun twist, you could use chocolate graham crackers for a chocolatey flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is combined.
- Stir in the peppermint extract to infuse that delightful mint flavor throughout.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or until it’s set and firm.
- Before serving, garnish with crushed peppermint candies for that festive touch.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake shines on its own, but you can elevate its presentation with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a refreshing peppermint tea for a dessert that feels luxurious and special.
How to Store
To keep your cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. Leftovers are best enjoyed within 3-4 days. If you want to save this cheesecake for a later date, you can freeze it! Just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil, placing them in an airtight container.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- For a more intense peppermint flavor, you can add a bit more peppermint extract, but taste as you go!
- If you love chocolate, consider mixing in some mini chocolate chips into the filling.
Creative Twists
- Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake: Use chocolate graham cracker crumbs for the crust and add melted chocolate into the filling for an indulgent twist.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream in place of heavy whipping cream.
- Different Flavor Options: Swap out peppermint for vanilla, lemon, or even orange extract for a unique flavor experience.
