No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Recipe
This No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake is a festive, creamy dessert featuring a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, a smooth peppermint-flavored cream cheese filling, and a rich chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly chilled and adorned with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candy, it’s an easy and elegant treat for the holidays or any special occasion.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 12 hours 30 minutes (including chilling overnight)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Crust
- 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
- 5 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese (2 packs, softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red food coloring (optional, 1-2 drops)
- 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy
Topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Crushed peppermint candy (for garnish)
- Prepare Pan: Generously spray a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick spray and place a parchment paper round at the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: Pulse Oreo cookies in a food processor until you have about 2 cups of fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse again until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or measuring cup. Place the crust in the freezer to set while preparing the filling.
- Cream the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for 4-5 minutes until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and optional red food coloring until evenly blended.
- Make Whipped Cream: In a separate large bowl, combine cold heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Whip on low speed until combined, then increase speed to high and whip until stiff peaks form.
- Fold Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined, making sure not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the frozen crust and smooth the top. Refrigerate overnight to allow the cheesecake to fully set.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Let cool for 3-4 minutes.
- Release Cheesecake: Run hot water over the outside of the springform pan briefly to loosen the cheesecake. Carefully remove the springform ring.
- Add Ganache and Garnish: Pour the cooled ganache over the top of the cheesecake and smooth it evenly. Decorate with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candy as desired.
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Notes
- Pressing the crust firmly ensures a sturdy base that holds together well.
- Chilling the crust before adding the filling helps it firm up and prevents sogginess.
- Folding whipped cream gently preserves its airy texture for a light cheesecake consistency.
- Running hot water on the springform pan’s outside helps release the cheesecake without damaging its shape.
- This dessert is best enjoyed within three days when kept refrigerated.
Keywords: no bake cheesecake, peppermint cheesecake, holiday dessert, Oreo crust, peppermint candy, chocolate ganache, easy cheesecake