If you are searching for a dessert that feels both festive and indulgently creamy, you have to try this No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a delightful treat that blends the crunch of chocolatey Oreos with a cooling peppermint flavor in a luscious no-bake cheesecake that’s as simple to prepare as it is irresistible. Whether it’s the holiday season or just a craving for something special, this cheesecake combines texture, flavor, and ease to bring everyone around the table in eager anticipation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe is a joy thanks to its straightforward and accessible ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to build that perfect harmony of texture and flavor, from the crumbly Oreo crust to the fluffy peppermint cream cheese filling.
- Oreos: The star for both crust and filling, providing rich chocolatey flavor and crunch.
- Butter: Melted to bind the crushed Oreos into a firm, buttery crust.
- Sugar: Adds just the right sweetness to balance the tangy and minty ingredients.
- Cream cheese: The creamy base that gives the cheesecake its velvety texture.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and moisture that brightens the filling.
- Vanilla and peppermint extract: Peppermint adds festive freshness, and vanilla enhances overall depth.
- Heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar: Whipped together for light, fluffy topping incorporated into the cheesecake.
- Crushed mint candies or candy canes: Tiny bursts of peppermint crunch throughout.
How to Make No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust
Start by finely crushing an entire 19.1-ounce package of Oreos. If you don’t have a food processor, no worries — you can place the cookies in a sturdy plastic bag and crush them gently with a rolling pin or heavy spoon until fine crumbs form. Next, mix these crumbs with melted butter and a tablespoon of sugar until the mixture is crumbly but sticks together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into a 9×9 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly oil a springform pan if you prefer. To help it set and hold nicely, pop the crust into the freezer for about 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese together with sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Then mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, making sure every flavor blends harmoniously. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form — this gives your cheesecake that light, airy feel. Gently fold the whipped cream and finely crushed mint candies into the cream cheese mixture, making sure to fold in without deflating it. Lastly, add the coarsely crushed Oreos to incorporate delightful chunks that surprise every bite.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Transfer the creamy filling over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula until smooth. Then comes the hardest part: waiting! Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 8 hours to let everything set perfectly. If time is short, freezing for around 2 hours can speed things up, but the best texture comes from slow chilling. Once set, decorate the top with any remaining crushed Oreos and a sprinkle of extra candy cane pieces if you’re feeling festive.
How to Serve No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this cheesecake elevates its look and taste effortlessly. A dusting of crushed Oreos and candy canes adds vibrant contrast and festive flair. For extra indulgence, whip a little fresh cream and pipe dollops around the edges. Tiny peppermint candies or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate make it even more special.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. A cup of rich hot cocoa or peppermint tea complements the minty flavors beautifully. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a bright contrast and a pop of color. To keep it light, serve with a crisp green salad topped with nuts and vinaigrette as a surprising but refreshing counterbalance.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations or gifting, present slices in decorative boxes or jars layered with crumbs and filling. Individual mini cheesecakes in ramekins topped with crushed candy canes are perfect for parties. You can even make a trifle out of this cheesecake by layering it with whipped cream, crushed Oreos, and peppermint bark for a show-stopping dessert bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe keeps incredibly well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert. When stored in an airtight container, the flavors continue to meld beautifully, and the texture stays smooth and creamy.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later or prepare in advance, this cheesecake freezes wonderfully for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake cheesecake, reheating isn’t necessary and would actually compromise the creamy texture. Simply allow frozen cheesecake to thaw adequately in the refrigerator and serve chilled for the perfect bite every time.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free Oreos for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using gluten-free Oreos makes this No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe safe for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
How long does it take to set?
The cheesecake needs at least 8 hours in the refrigerator to set properly, but chilling it overnight actually improves the texture and flavor.
Can I substitute peppermint extract with something else?
You can substitute peppermint extract with spearmint or even a splash of vanilla, but peppermint is what gives this cheesecake its signature festive brightness.
Is it possible to make mini cheesecakes with this recipe?
Yes! Simply divide the crust and filling into cupcake liners or mini springform pans for adorable individual portions perfect for parties.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead for a holiday party?
This cheesecake is ideal for making ahead since it stores well refrigerated or frozen. Make it a day or two before your gathering to save time and stress.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite go-to for holiday celebrations and cozy get-togethers alike. The ease of preparation combined with its irresistible chocolate-mint flavor makes it a real crowd-pleaser. So grab those Oreos, whip up the filling, and enjoy sharing something truly festive and delicious with those you love!
PrintNo Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Recipe
This No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake is a festive, easy-to-make dessert featuring a buttery Oreo crust and a creamy peppermint-infused filling packed with crushed Oreos and candy canes. Perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion, this cheesecake requires no oven time and takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it convenient and crowd-pleasing. It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free Oreos.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 30 Oreos (one 19.1 oz package), very finely crushed
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sugar
For the Filling:
- 16 ounces softened cream cheese (two 8-ounce blocks), room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup finely crushed mint candies or candy canes
- 12 Oreos, coarsely crushed
Optional Topping:
- 6 Oreos, crushed
- Extra crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Make the Oreo Crust: Process the Oreos in a food processor until finely crushed. If you don’t have a food processor, place Oreos in a plastic bag and crush them with a heavy spoon or rolling pin. Mix the crushed Oreos with melted butter and sugar until well combined and crumbly. Press the mixture very firmly into a 9×9 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, or into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Freeze the crust for about 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Beat on high speed with the electric mixer until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream is whipped sufficiently.
- Combine and Fold: Gently fold the whipped cream and finely crushed mint candies into the cream cheese mixture. Then carefully fold in the coarsely crushed Oreos, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Transfer the cheesecake filling onto the chilled Oreo crust, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface. Chill the assembled cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours to allow it to set fully. Alternatively, freeze for about 2 hours to speed up the process, though refrigeration yields the best texture.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Once set, sprinkle the cheesecake with the remaining crushed Oreos and extra crushed candy canes if desired. Slice and serve, optionally topped with additional whipped cream. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
- Use gluten-free Oreos to make this cheesecake gluten-free.
- Pressing the crust firmly is essential to ensure it holds together well when sliced.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for best texture; overnight refrigeration is preferred.
- You can substitute crushed peppermint candies with crushed candy canes if preferred.
- If you don’t have peppermint extract, vanilla extract alone will still provide a tasty cheesecake, though less minty.
- Freeze leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness up to 2 months.
- For a more festive look, garnish with whole or halved Oreos and candy cane pieces on top.
