No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Recipe
This No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake is a festive and creamy dessert perfect for the holiday season. With a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, a smooth peppermint-infused cream cheese filling, and topped with whipped topping and peppermint crunch chips, it combines refreshing mint flavor with rich cheesecake texture without the need for baking.
- Author: Jeannette
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Crust
- 3 cups Oreo cookie crumbs (30 cream filled cookies)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 – 8 ounce packages cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups Andes Peppermint Crunch Chips, divided
- 2 teaspoons shortening
- 2 – 8 ounce containers Cool Whip, thawed
- Prepare the crust: Combine the Oreo cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a solid crust. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the cream cheese base: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Melt the peppermint chips: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of Andes Peppermint Crunch Chips with the shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is completely melted and creamy, about 50-60 seconds total.
- Incorporate melted chips: Immediately pour the melted peppermint chips into the cream cheese mixture and beat thoroughly until fully combined, ensuring the flavor is evenly dispersed.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold 8 ounces (about half) of the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture until well combined, maintaining a light and airy texture.
- Assemble the cheesecake layer: Spoon the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled Oreo crust and spread it out smoothly.
- Add whipped topping layer: Spread the remaining container of Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer for a smooth, creamy finish.
- Garnish and chill: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Andes Peppermint Crunch Chips over the top. Refrigerate the cheesecake for 1-2 hours to allow it to set properly before serving.
- Serve: Once set, cut into 24 squares and keep refrigerated in a sealed container until ready to serve.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing and to avoid lumps.
- Press the crust firmly and evenly to prevent it from crumbling when slicing.
- Use shortening when melting peppermint chips to prevent them from seizing and to create a smooth consistency.
- This cheesecake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese and Cool Whip with vegan versions, though texture and taste may vary.
- If Andes Peppermint Crunch Chips are unavailable, chopped peppermint bark or similar peppermint candies may be used as a substitute.
Keywords: No Bake Cheesecake, Peppermint Cheesecake, Holiday Dessert, Oreo Crust Cheesecake, No Bake Dessert, Mint Cheesecake, Easy Cheesecake