Indulge in a delightfully refreshing and decadent dessert with our Peppermint Panache Cheesecake recipe. This festive treat is perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion when you want to impress your guests with a show-stopping dessert. The cool peppermint flavor combined with the rich and creamy cheesecake is a match made in dessert heaven. Let’s get started on creating this delicious masterpiece!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
– Green food coloring
– Whipped cream, for garnish
– Additional crushed candy canes, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a bowl, mix together the crushed chocolate cookies and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the sour cream, peppermint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring for a festive touch. Mix until fully combined.
6. Gently fold in the crushed candy canes, being careful not to overmix.
7. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
8. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for one hour.
10. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and run a knife around the edges to loosen it from the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
11. Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with whipped cream and a sprinkle of additional crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
12. Slice and serve this Peppermint Panache Cheesecake to your delighted guests and enjoy the refreshing and creamy flavors!
Capture the essence of the holiday season with this Peppermint Panache Cheesecake that will surely become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Its creamy texture, hint of peppermint, and delightful crunch of candy canes make it a standout dessert for any celebration. Enjoy creating this impressive treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
