Oh my goodness, have you ever tried a no bake peppermint cheesecake? It’s like a creamy cloud of minty goodness that just melts in your mouth! The refreshing flavor is perfect for the holidays, and trust me, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering—everyone was raving about how light and delicious it was. It was the kind of dessert that made you feel cozy and festive all at once. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! You don’t even have to turn on the oven, which is a huge win in my book. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat that brings all the holiday cheer with every creamy bite!

Ingredients for No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake

1 ½ cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste for more minty flavor)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup crushed peppermint candies (for that festive crunch)

These ingredients come together to create a cheesecake that’s not just delicious but also super easy to make. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for that rich, creamy texture that will have everyone coming back for more!

How to Prepare No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake

Now, let’s dive into making this dreamy no bake peppermint cheesecake! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a dessert wizard by the end. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning cheesecake ready to chill in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter in a bowl. You want everything to be well combined; it should look like wet sand.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Make sure it’s nice and compact, so it holds up when you slice into it later.
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. This is where the magic starts!
Add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix well until everything is combined and you get that lovely minty aroma wafting through your kitchen.
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. This step adds that light, airy texture to your cheesecake, so don’t skip it!
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Do this carefully; we want to keep all that fluffiness!
Now, add the crushed peppermint candies to the mix and stir gently. This will give your cheesecake that delightful crunch and extra minty kick.
Spread the mixture evenly over your crust in the springform pan. Smooth it out with a spatula to make it look pretty.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set. I know, waiting is the hardest part, but it’s so worth it!
Once set, feel free to garnish with additional crushed peppermint candies or even some whipped cream on top for that extra festive touch!

And there you have it! A no bake peppermint cheesecake that’s not only beautiful but bursting with flavor. Enjoy the process, and get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills!

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake

Quick preparation—whip it up in just 20 minutes!
No baking required, so you can skip the oven and save energy.
Refreshing mint flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth, leaving you wanting more.
Elegant and festive, making it a showstopper for any gathering.

This cheesecake truly has it all! It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like a superstar in the kitchen without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Tips for Success with No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake

Alright, let’s make sure your no bake peppermint cheesecake turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I swear by to ensure it’s a hit every single time:

Use full-fat cream cheese: This is crucial for that rich, creamy texture. Low-fat versions just don’t cut it for this dessert!
Chill overnight: If you can, let your cheesecake sit in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives it a firmer texture that’s easier to slice.
Adjust peppermint extract: Everyone’s taste is different! Start with the recommended amount and then add more if you want it extra minty. Just be careful not to overdo it—it can get overpowering!
Keep it covered: While it’s chilling, make sure to cover your cheesecake with plastic wrap or a lid. This prevents any weird fridge odors from seeping in and keeps it fresh.
Garnish before serving: For that extra wow factor, add crushed peppermint candies or whipped cream just before serving. This keeps the toppings looking fresh and beautiful.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a no bake peppermint cheesecake that’ll wow your friends and family. Trust me, they won’t believe how easy it was to make something so delicious!

Variations of No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your no bake peppermint cheesecake! Here are some delightful variations that I absolutely love:

Chocolate Peppermint Delight: Add some melted chocolate to the cream cheese mixture for a rich chocolate peppermint flavor. You can also drizzle chocolate ganache on top for extra decadence!
Minty Oreo Crust: Instead of a graham cracker crust, crush up some Oreo cookies and mix them with melted butter for a chocolatey twist. It adds a whole new level of yumminess!
Layered Peppermint Cheesecake: Create a layered effect by alternating the cheesecake mixture with layers of crushed peppermint candies. It looks stunning and tastes divine!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the cheesecake mixture for added texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle them on top as a garnish.
Candy Cane Garnish: Instead of regular crushed peppermint candies, use mini candy canes as a festive garnish. It gives a cute holiday touch and looks super adorable!
Fruit Twist: Incorporate some fresh raspberries or strawberries into the mix for a fruity contrast to the mint. You can also serve the cheesecake with a berry compote on top for a pop of color!

These variations are not only delicious but also make your cheesecake stand out. Feel free to get creative and have fun with the flavors! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious no bake peppermint cheesecake fresh and ready for whenever you want a slice! After all that hard work, you’ll want to savor every last bite.

First off, make sure to cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh in the refrigerator, and it’ll also prevent any unwanted fridge odors from mingling with your lovely minty dessert.

You can store your cheesecake in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to keep it covered! If you’re like me and can’t resist the temptation, it might not last that long anyway!

Now, if you want to enjoy this treat even later, you can freeze it! Just slice it into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can pull out a slice whenever you’re craving something sweet. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw the cheesecake in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat it; it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled! Just garnish with some crushed peppermint candies or whipped cream before serving, and you’re all set.

With these storage tips, you can enjoy your no bake peppermint cheesecake anytime, and it’ll taste just as amazing as the first day you made it!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

While I’ve included some general nutritional information for the no bake peppermint cheesecake, please keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Things like the type of cream cheese or the brand of peppermint candies can make a difference in calories, sugar, and fat content. So, if you’re tracking your intake closely, I recommend checking the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cheesecake without worry, but just remember that nutrition is a little bit of a moving target!

FAQ about No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day in advance if you can. This gives the flavors more time to meld together and allows the cheesecake to set perfectly. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve!

What can I substitute for peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract on hand, you can use mint extract instead, but be cautious with the amount since it can be stronger. Another option is to use fresh mint leaves; just muddle them and strain the juice to incorporate a more natural mint flavor, but keep in mind it will be less potent than extracts.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can, but I really recommend sticking with full-fat cream cheese for the best results. The texture and creaminess are just unmatched! Low-fat versions can lead to a cheesecake that’s less rich and may not set as well.

How do I know when the cheesecake is set?
You’ll know it’s set when it feels firm to the touch and holds its shape when you slice it. It should also be chilled for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! Don’t rush this step—it’s crucial for the perfect slice.

Can I freeze the no bake peppermint cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. It’ll taste just as delicious as when you first made it!

What’s the best way to garnish this cheesecake?
I love topping it with crushed peppermint candies or a dollop of whipped cream right before serving. You could also add some chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special touch. Get creative with your garnishes to make it look as festive as it tastes!

No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake: 5 Steps to Festive Bliss

Author: Louna
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This no bake peppermint cheesecake is a creamy dessert with a refreshing mint flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions

Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Mix well.
In another bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Add crushed peppermint candies and mix gently.
Spread the mixture over the crust in the pan.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until set.
Garnish with additional crushed peppermint candies if desired.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor.
Let the cheesecake sit in the fridge overnight for best results.
Adjust peppermint extract to taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: no bake peppermint cheesecake

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