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Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 135 reviews

This rich and festive Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake features a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, a smooth chocolate cream cheese filling infused with refreshing peppermint, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping crowned with crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion that calls for a decadent dessert with a minty twist.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

  • 24 Oreo cookies (278 grams), filling intact
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

  • 8 ounces (227 grams) semisweet chocolate, chopped
  • 24 ounces (680 grams) full fat cream cheese, completely softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (21 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 4 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the topping:

  • 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Crushed candy canes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until finely ground while keeping the filling intact. Mix the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside to cool.
  2. Melt the chocolate for filling: In a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler), gently melt the 8 ounces of semisweet chocolate until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until fully combined and fluffy. Add the heavy cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, and melted chocolate, mixing until the batter is smooth. Beat in the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Finally, fold in the peppermint extract.
  4. Assemble and bake the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled Oreo crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F (163°C) for approximately 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
  5. Chill the cheesecake: After cooling in the oven, remove the cheesecake and allow it to cool fully at room temperature. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until completely chilled and firm.
  6. Prepare the chocolate ganache topping: Place the semisweet chocolate chips in a medium bowl. Heat the 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—do not boil. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
  7. Top the cheesecake: Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Sprinkle crushed candy canes generously over the ganache before it sets for a festive touch.
  8. Serve: Remove the sides of the springform pan before slicing. Serve chilled and enjoy the combination of creamy chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and crunchy candy cane textures.

Notes

  • Room temperature ingredients ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
  • Use a springform pan for easy removal without damaging the cheesecake.
  • Baking the crust before adding the filling prevents sogginess.
  • Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
  • The peppermint extract is potent; adjust quantity according to taste.
  • For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality semisweet chocolate.
  • Crushed candy canes add festive color and extra crunch, but can be omitted if preferred.

Keywords: chocolate peppermint cheesecake, holiday dessert, peppermint cheesecake, Oreo crust cheesecake, chocolate ganache topping

Find it online: https://busyrecipe.com/chocolate-peppermint-cheesecake-recipe/