Chilled Chocolate Peppermint Dream Cheesecake
Indulge in the festive flavors of winter with this Chilled Chocolate Peppermint Dream Cheesecake. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights, this no-bake dessert combines a rich and velvety cream cheese filling with the refreshing taste of peppermint. The luscious chocolate cookie crust provides a delightful crunch that complements the creamy interior, while the vibrant colors and festive presentation will impress your guests. With minimal effort required—simply blend the ingredients, freeze, and serve—you'll have more time to enjoy the holiday season. Don't forget to save those leftover candy canes for a delicious topping!
10
Servings
300
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chocolate cookie crumbs
1 1/2 cups (Crushed)
Sugar
1/4 cup (Granulated)
Butter or margarine
1/4 cup (Melted)
Cream cheese
8 ounces (Softened)
Sweetened condensed milk
1 (14 ounce) can (N/A)
Hard peppermint candy
1 cup (Crushed (such as Peppermint Starlights or candy canes))
Red food coloring
3 drops (N/A)
Heavy cream
2 cups (Whipped)
Instructions
1
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter (or margarine), and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a cohesive crust.
2
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on high speed to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3
Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese mixture. Mix on low speed until combined, then increase to high speed and beat until well blended, about 2 additional minutes.
4
Add the crushed peppermint candy and red food coloring to the mixture, and mix on low speed until just combined.
5
Using a spatula, gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until no white streaks remain, taking care to maintain the light and airy texture.
6
Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with the spatula and cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap.
7
Freeze the cheesecake until firm, at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
8
Before serving, garnish with additional whipped cream and whole pieces of peppermint candy if desired. Slice and enjoy this delightful, refreshing treat!
Nutrition Information
22g
Fat
24g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
16.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chilled Chocolate Peppermint Dream Cheesecake?
It is a festive, no-bake winter dessert that combines a chocolate cookie crust with a creamy peppermint and cream cheese filling.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 10 servings.
Does this cheesecake require baking?
No, this is a no-bake recipe that sets in the freezer.
What are the ingredients for the crust?
The crust consists of 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup melted butter or margarine.
What type of pan should I use?
A 9-inch springform pan is recommended for this recipe.
How much cream cheese is required?
You will need 8 ounces of softened cream cheese.
How long should I beat the cream cheese?
Beat the cream cheese on high speed for about 2-3 minutes until it is smooth and fluffy.
What kind of milk is used in the filling?
The recipe calls for one 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk.
How much peppermint candy do I need?
You need 1 cup of crushed hard peppermint candy, such as Peppermint Starlights or candy canes.
What is the purpose of the red food coloring?
The 3 drops of red food coloring are used to give the cheesecake a festive pink or red tint.
How do I incorporate the heavy cream?
Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped heavy cream using a spatula until no white streaks remain.
How long does the cheesecake need to freeze?
The cheesecake should freeze for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight for the best texture.
What are the total calories per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content per slice?
There are 22g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 24g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the sugar content of the cheesecake?
Each serving contains 16.5g of sugar.
How much protein is in one serving?
There is 2.5g of protein per serving.
Does this recipe contain any fiber?
The nutritional data indicates there is no fiber in this recipe.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either melted butter or margarine in the crust.
What is the best way to garnish the dessert?
Garnish with additional whipped cream and whole pieces of peppermint candy before serving.
How do I prepare the peppermint candy?
The peppermint candy should be crushed before being added to the mixture.
What speed should I use for mixing the condensed milk?
Start on low speed to combine, then increase to high speed and beat for 2 minutes.
Should the cream cheese be cold or softened?
The cream cheese should be softened to ensure a smooth and fluffy texture.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include no-bake, cheesecake, peppermint, dessert, holiday, chocolate, winter, and easy recipe.
Is this a good recipe for holiday gatherings?
Yes, its festive flavors and presentation make it perfect for winter holidays.
How do I ensure the crust is cohesive?
Press the mixture of crumbs, butter, and sugar firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.
Should I cover the cheesecake while it freezes?
Yes, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.
Can I use leftover candy canes for this recipe?
Absolutely, candy canes are a great source for the crushed peppermint needed.
What texture should the filling have before freezing?
The filling should be light and airy after folding in the whipped cream.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized as a Cheesecake.