Zesty and zingy, these Oreo peppermint mini cheesecakes are the perfect treat to brighten up your holiday table. Combining the classic crunch of Oreos with the cool freshness of peppermint, these mini delights are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of Oreo cookies and peppermint creates a perfect balance of chocolatey and minty flavors.
- Mini cheesecakes are individually portioned, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.
- The no-bake filling saves time and ensures a creamy, smooth texture every time.
- Using a muffin tin simplifies the process, eliminating the need for a springform pan.
- The recipe is easily customizable, allowing for various toppings and mix-ins.
Ingredients
- 24 Oreo cookies (divided)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Start by crushing 18 Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of each muffin tin cup to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Cheesecakes
Spoon the filling over the chilled crusts, filling each cup almost to the top. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the tops. Crush the remaining Oreo cookies and sprinkle them over the filling along with crushed candy canes for garnish.
Chill to Set
Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 4 hours, or until set. For best results, chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Serve and Enjoy
Once set, carefully remove the cheesecakes from the muffin tin. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful combination of Oreo and peppermint in every bite.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra minty kick, add a few drops of green food coloring to the filling. To ensure easy removal, line the muffin tin with paper liners before adding the crust. If you’re short on time, freeze the cheesecakes for 2 hours instead of refrigerating. For a smoother filling, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Experiment with different toppings like chocolate ganache or whipped cream for added decadence.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out the peppermint extract for almond or orange extract for a different flavor profile.
- Use chocolate cookies instead of Oreos for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for extra texture.
- Top with caramel sauce and sea salt for a sweet and salty twist.
- Incorporate crushed nuts into the crust for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These mini cheesecakes can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just keep them refrigerated until ready to serve. They also freeze well for up to a month, making them a great make-ahead dessert for busy holidays.
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can use any cookie you prefer. Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even ginger snaps would work well. Just make sure to adjust the amount of butter accordingly to achieve the right consistency for the crust.
How do I prevent the cheesecakes from sticking to the muffin tin?
Using paper liners is the easiest way to prevent sticking. If you prefer not to use liners, lightly grease the muffin tin with non-stick spray before adding the crust. This will help the cheesecakes release easily once set.
Summary
These Oreo peppermint mini cheesecakes are a festive, bite-sized treat that combines the rich flavor of Oreos with the refreshing taste of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they’re easy to make and sure to impress.
