Introduction to White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of festive treats that bring joy to my family. One of my absolute favorites is the White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake. This creamy delight is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate!

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to indulge after a long day, this cheesecake is the perfect solution. It’s easy to whip up, and the combination of white chocolate and peppermint is simply irresistible. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake: A Holiday Delight!

Print Recipe

A creamy and festive cheesecake infused with white chocolate and peppermint, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Author: Chef Samantha
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup white chocolate, melted
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add melted white chocolate and mix well.
Gradually add powdered sugar and peppermint extract, mixing until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream and crushed peppermint candies.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the springform pan.
Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract to 1 1/2 teaspoons.
Top with whipped cream and additional crushed peppermint candies for garnish.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake

This White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, even on your busiest days. The creamy texture and festive flavors will have everyone raving. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dessert, so you can prepare it in advance and enjoy the holiday fun without stress. Trust me, this cheesecake will become a cherished tradition in your home!

Ingredients for White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake. Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of your cheesecake crust, providing a sweet and crunchy texture.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together, ensuring a firm crust that holds its shape.
Cream cheese: The star of the show! Softened cream cheese gives the cheesecake its rich and creamy texture.
White chocolate: Melted white chocolate adds a luxurious sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
Powdered sugar: This sweetener blends smoothly into the cheesecake, giving it that perfect sweetness without any graininess.
Peppermint extract: A splash of this extract infuses the cheesecake with a refreshing minty flavor, making it festive and fun.
Eggs: Eggs help to set the cheesecake, giving it structure and a smooth consistency.
Sour cream: This ingredient adds a tangy flavor and creaminess, balancing the sweetness of the white chocolate.
Crushed peppermint candies: These not only add a delightful crunch but also enhance the peppermint flavor, making each bite a holiday treat.

For those looking to customize, you can increase the peppermint extract for a stronger flavor or top your cheesecake with whipped cream and extra crushed candies for a festive touch.

You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making this White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive dessert that will impress everyone!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Preheating is crucial for baking cheesecake. It ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect creamy texture. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated. This mixture should resemble wet sand. Now, press it firmly into the bottom of your springform pan. A well-pressed crust will hold together beautifully when you slice into the cheesecake.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Using softened cream cheese is key here; it blends easily without lumps. You want a velvety base for your cheesecake, so take your time with this step!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Next, add the melted white chocolate, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract to the cream cheese. Mix well until everything is combined and smooth. The melted white chocolate adds a rich sweetness, while the peppermint extract gives it that festive zing!

Step 5: Add Eggs and Sour Cream

Now, it’s time to add the eggs. Do this one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter, making it light and fluffy. After the eggs, stir in the sour cream. It adds a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over your prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. A little jiggle is a good sign; it means your cheesecake will be creamy!

Step 7: Cooling Process

Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door ajar for about an hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in texture!

Step 8: Refrigerate

Finally, refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you take that first bite!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix after adding the eggs; this helps prevent cracks.
For a creamier texture, bake the cheesecake in a water bath.
Let the cheesecake cool gradually to avoid cracks.
Top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint for a festive touch!

Equipment Needed

Springform pan: Essential for easy removal; a regular cake pan works too, but slicing will be trickier.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for the batter; a hand mixer or stand mixer makes blending easier.
Spatula: Perfect for smoothing the cheesecake; a wooden spoon can work in a pinch.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; a kitchen scale is a great alternative.

Variations of White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake

Chocolate Swirl: Add a swirl of melted dark chocolate to the cheesecake mixture before baking for a rich contrast.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a gluten-free crust.
Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and a flaxseed mixture instead of eggs for a plant-based delight.
Mint Chocolate Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips along with the crushed peppermint candies for added texture and flavor.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for a sweet and salty twist.

Serving Suggestions for White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake

Pair with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness.
Serve alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy touch.
Garnish with extra crushed peppermint candies for a festive look.
Consider a side of chocolate-covered strawberries for a delightful contrast.
Present on a decorative platter to impress your guests!

FAQs about White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Just prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious!

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a bit soft when you take it out!

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use mint extract, but use it sparingly as it can be stronger. Alternatively, you can infuse the cheesecake with crushed peppermint candies for a more natural flavor.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 5-7 days. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain its creamy texture!

Final Thoughts

Making this White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of sharing a slice with family during the holidays is truly special. Each bite is a delightful blend of creamy sweetness and refreshing mint, evoking the warmth of festive gatherings.

I love how this cheesecake can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to savor the moment without stress. So, gather your loved ones, slice into this festive treat, and let the laughter and joy fill your home. Trust me, this cheesecake will become a cherished holiday tradition!