Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive treat that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to whip up, the Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes Recipe is your new holiday hero. These charming little delights combine a rich Oreo cookie crust with a creamy, chocolatey peppermint cheesecake filling, topped with glossy ganache, fluffy whipped cream, and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. They’re no-bake, easy to make ahead, and perfect for sharing with friends and family during the season. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a beloved tradition at your gatherings.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the crunchy Oreo crust that gives a perfect base texture, to the luscious peppermint-spiked cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth. The toppings add layers of flavor and festive flair, making each bite a delightful experience.

• Oreo cookie crumbs (2 cups): Provides a chocolatey, crunchy base that holds everything together deliciously.
• Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Just enough to sweeten the crust and balance flavors.
• Salted butter, melted (6 tbsp): Binds the crust and enhances the richness with a slight salty twist.
• Cream cheese, room temperature (16 oz): The star of the cheesecake filling—smooth and creamy for a luscious texture.
• Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the filling and whipped cream without any grit.
• Dark cocoa powder (⅓ cup): Gives the cheesecake that deep chocolate flavor and velvety color.
• Peppermint extract (2 tsp): Brings the refreshing holiday spirit with every bite.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors seamlessly.
• Heavy cream (1 cup for filling + ¾ cup for whipped cream): Adds richness and lightness respectively, creating the perfect balance in filling and topping.
• Semisweet chocolate chips (½ cup): Used to make the luscious chocolate ganache that tops the cheesecakes.
• Crushed peppermint candy or sprinkles (¼ cup): Adds festive crunch and a bright pop of color just before serving.

How to Make Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes Recipe

Step 1: Make the Oreo Cookie Crust

Start by mixing the Oreo cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. This mixture forms the crumbly, chocolate base, so be sure to press it firmly into your mini cheesecake pans to create a compact, sturdy crust that will hold up when you add the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth. Slowly add the heavy cream and whip on medium-high speed until the mixture thickens and becomes light and fluffy. This fluffy texture is key to achieving the melt-in-your-mouth feel of the cheesecake.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

Fill a piping bag with the cheesecake mixture and pipe it evenly onto each crust, filling just above the rim of your mini pans. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or overnight, so the cheesecakes can set beautifully and develop their signature creamy texture.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

While the cheesecakes chill, melt the chocolate chips with heavy cream in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until silky smooth. Let this ganache cool slightly so it thickens but is still pourable. This glossy topping adds a luxurious finish.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until medium-stiff peaks form. This whipped cream topping provides a light, airy counterpart to the rich cheesecake and ganache layers.

Step 6: Final Assembly

Once set, gently remove each cheesecake from the pans. Spoon or pipe a layer of chocolate ganache atop each mini cheesecake, then add a swirl of whipped cream. Just before serving, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the top for a festive crunch and visual sparkle.

How to Serve Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes Recipe

Garnishes

For a show-stopping presentation, garnish these cheesecakes with fresh peppermint leaves or a light dusting of cocoa powder alongside the crushed peppermint. These little touches brighten the look and intensify the festive flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a hot cup of peppermint tea or rich hot chocolate to complement the minty chocolate flavor. A small bowl of fresh berries can also add a refreshing, fruity contrast that balances the creamy cheesecakes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes Recipe on a festive platter lined with evergreen sprigs or edible gold leaf for extra holiday glam. You can also place them in mini cupcake wrappers or atop candy cane-striped plates to really elevate the seasonal vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover cheesecakes in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep well for up to three days. Keeping them chilled ensures they maintain that perfect creamy texture we all love.

Freezing

You can freeze these mini cheesecakes for longer storage. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to retain their luscious texture.

Reheating

Since these cheesecakes are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply allow frozen cheesecakes to thaw slowly in the refrigerator for the best creamy consistency and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these cheesecakes without an electric mixer?

While an electric mixer makes the process quicker and ensures a smoother filling, you can whisk the ingredients by hand. It will take more elbow grease, but patience will reward you with deliciously creamy results.

What if I don’t have mini cheesecake pans?

If you don’t have mini cheesecake pans, you can use a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. Just press the crust firmly and carefully pipe or spoon in the filling, then chill as directed.

Can I substitute fresh peppermint for peppermint extract?

Fresh peppermint leaves will add a lovely herbal note but won’t provide the strong peppermint flavor specific to the extract. For that iconic holiday kick, it’s best to stick with peppermint extract in the filling.

Is it possible to make these dairy-free?

You can experiment using dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream, but keep in mind the texture and flavor may slightly differ. Dairy-free ganache can be made with vegan chocolate chips and coconut cream as well.

How long do these cheesecakes last once garnished?

Once you add the whipped cream and crushed peppermint toppings, it’s best to serve within a few hours as the peppermint candy can color bleed into the cream and affect the texture over time.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes Recipe enough for your holiday dessert lineup. They are easy to prepare, undeniably festive, and utterly delicious, making them a guaranteed hit with everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find yourself baking these little gems year after year!

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