Description
This No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake is a festive and indulgent dessert perfect for the holidays. Featuring a rich Oreo crust, creamy peppermint-infused cheesecake filling, and topped with hot fudge and crushed peppermints, this cheesecake requires no oven time and sets beautifully in the refrigerator or freezer.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups Oreo cookie crumbs
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- More whole Oreos for the sides
Filling
- 4 blocks (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 cup chopped Oreos
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
Toppings
- Hot fudge for drizzling
- Crushed Oreos
- Crushed peppermints
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Melt the butter and stir it into the Oreo crumbs until everything is evenly coated, ensuring the crumbs are fully moistened.
- Form the Crust: Press the Oreo and butter mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan, packing it down firmly with the back of a spoon or a metal measuring spoon to create clean edges. Press the crumbs slightly up the sides to form a sturdy crust.
- Line with Whole Oreos: Arrange whole Oreos standing upright along the inside edge of the pan to create a dramatic cookie border. Set aside while preparing the filling.
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, chopped Oreos, and peppermint extract with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Whip the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and whip the mixture until it is fluffy and light, incorporating air for a smooth texture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Transfer the filling onto the prepared crust, smoothing out the top evenly. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or freeze for 4 hours until it is completely set and firm enough to slice.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle warm hot fudge over the cheesecake, then sprinkle generously with crushed peppermints and extra cookie crumbs. Slice and serve each piece with a dollop of whipped cream and an optional whole Oreo on top for extra visual appeal and flavor.
Notes
- The cheesecake needs to chill for at least 6 hours to set properly; freezing for 4 hours is a quicker alternative.
- Use a springform pan for easy removal and neat presentation.
- For stronger peppermint flavor, adjust the peppermint extract to taste, but avoid adding too much to prevent bitterness.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Warm the hot fudge slightly before drizzling to make it pour easily.
