Nothing says holiday cheer like the refreshing combination of peppermint and chocolate. This No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for festive gatherings or a cozy night in. With a creamy cheesecake filling infused with cool peppermint and nestled on a crunchy Oreo crust, this treat is as indulgent as it is effortless to prepare. No oven required!
The Story Behind No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
The first time I made this cheesecake was for a holiday potluck at work. I wanted something that looked impressive but didn’t involve the stress of baking. Armed with a pack of Oreos and a bottle of peppermint extract, I whipped up what turned out to be the star of the dessert table. Everyone kept asking for the recipe! This cheesecake quickly became my go-to for celebrations, not just during Christmas but anytime I craved that magical peppermint-chocolate flavor.
Why Our No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake is the Best
Our No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake is the epitome of holiday bliss, packed with irresistible features:
- No oven required, making it a breeze to prepare.
- A balance of flavors: cool peppermint and rich Oreo crumble.
- Show-stopping presentation, perfect for holiday tables or special occasions.
Ingredients Notes for No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
Each ingredient in our No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake works together to create its festive, creamy delight.
Ingredients
- Oreo Cookies (24-30): Crushed to form the crust and sprinkled on top for a decorative touch.
- Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons): Melted, to bind the crust.
- Cream Cheese (16 ounces): Softened to create a smooth, creamy base.
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Adds the perfect level of sweetness.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup): Whipped to give the cheesecake its light texture.
- Peppermint Extract (1 teaspoon): Provides the cool, minty flavor that defines this dessert.
- Crushed Candy Canes (¼ cup): Adds a festive crunch and decoration.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (optional, ¼ cup): For an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
Substitution Tip: If you don’t have candy canes, use crushed peppermint candies or skip them for a smoother texture.
Kitchen Equipment Needed for No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
- Food processor or blender
- Springform pan (9-inch recommended)
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Plastic wrap
How to Make No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
This delightful cheesecake comes together in just a few easy steps. Prepare to wow your family and friends!
1. Prepare the Oreo Crust
Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Chill in the freezer while preparing the filling.
2. Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the peppermint extract and mix well. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the filling onto the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle crushed candy canes, mini chocolate chips, or extra Oreo crumbs on top for decoration.
5. Chill to Set
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully release the springform pan and slice into wedges. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
How to Store No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
To keep your cheesecake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for a touch of elegance.
- Mint Oreo Twist: Use mint-flavored Oreos for an extra boost of peppermint.
- Berry Delight: Top the cheesecake with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
What to Serve with No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
Pair this festive dessert with:
- Hot Chocolate: The creamy warmth complements the minty chill of the cheesecake.
- Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors balance the rich sweetness.
- Peppermint Mocha: Double down on the peppermint-chocolate combination.
For a creative touch, serve the cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a mini candy cane on each slice!
Top Tips for Perfect No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
- Use softened cream cheese: This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Don’t skip chilling: The cheesecake needs time to set properly for clean slices.
- Crush the Oreos finely: A consistent texture helps the crust hold together.
- Adjust the peppermint extract: A little goes a long way—taste the filling before adding more!
- Decorate creatively: Crushed candy canes and mini chocolate chips make a festive statement.
Helpful Notes
- If the crust feels too crumbly, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter.
- Ensure the whipped cream is stiff enough to hold its shape when folded into the filling.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Martha Stewart: Always use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Ina Garten: Let your cheesecake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for maximum flavor.
- Nigella Lawson: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
A: Yes! It can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
Q: Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipping cream?
A: It’s best to whip heavy cream yourself for the ideal texture and stability.
Q: Can I skip the peppermint flavor?
A: Sure! You can substitute vanilla extract for a classic Oreo cheesecake.
Q: How do I prevent the crust from sticking?
A: Line the bottom of the springform pan with parchment paper for easy release.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a larger pan or make two cheesecakes.
More Delicious Cheesecake Recipes
Enjoy the rich and festive flavors of this No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake—a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake
Ingredients
- – 24 Oreo cookies finely crushed
- – 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- – 16 oz cream cheese softened
- – 1 cup powdered sugar
- – 1 tsp peppermint extract
- – 1 cup heavy whipping cream whipped
- – 1/2 cup crushed candy canes plus more for topping
- – Optional: whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine crushed Oreos and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Mix in peppermint extract and gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully combined.
- Stir in crushed candy canes.
- Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until set.
- Before serving, garnish with additional crushed candy canes and whipped cream if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use mint-flavored Oreos for an extra peppermint kick.
- For clean slices, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.