Description
Bring the magic of the holidays straight to your dessert table with these adorable no-bake Peppermint Cheesecake Cups! Each mini treat features a chocolate cookie crust, a silky white chocolate peppermint filling, and a swirl of whipped cream on top. These chilled, creamy bites are perfect for parties, potlucks, or any cozy Christmas celebration.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 20 Oreo cookies
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- ½ cup chopped Andes Peppermint Crunch (plus more for garnish)
- Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Prep the pans:
- Line two standard 12-count muffin tins with cupcake liners. Set aside.
- Make the cookie base:
- Use a food processor to crush the Oreos into fine crumbs. In a bowl, mix in the melted butter until the crumbs resemble wet sand. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture into each cupcake liner, then press down firmly with the back of a spoon or measuring cup to form a tight crust.
- Whip the cream:
- Pour the cold heavy cream into a clean mixing bowl. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. (Tip: A chilled metal bowl speeds this up!)
- Blend the cheesecake filling:
- In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy.
- Melt the chocolate:
- Gently melt the white chocolate chips either in a double boiler or in the microwave (30-second bursts, stirring in between). Once melted and smooth, immediately stir the white chocolate into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the flavor and crunch:
- Stir in the peppermint extract and chopped Andes peppermint candies. Finally, fold in the whipped cream until everything is evenly incorporated. Be gentle to keep the mixture fluffy!
- Fill and chill:
- Divide the filling evenly among the prepared crusts—about ¼ cup per cheesecake. Smooth the tops. Place the muffin tins in the refrigerator and let the cheesecakes chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best texture.
- Finish with flair:
- Right before serving, add a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra peppermint candy for a festive touch.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Whipping cream 101: Always use a cold bowl and beaters for best results. Any leftover grease or moisture in the bowl can prevent stiff peaks from forming.
- Melting chocolate made easy: If using a double boiler, heat an inch of water in a saucepan, then place a heatproof bowl on top (don’t let it touch the water). Stir the white chocolate until smooth and remove from heat.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare these peppermint cheesecake cups 1–2 days in advance. Just wait to add the whipped cream topping until right before serving to keep things fresh.
- Freezer-friendly: Want to save extras? Freeze the cheesecakes (without topping) on a lined baking sheet until firm, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil or place in a container. They’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Swaps & Variations
- Not a fan of Oreos? Try using graham cracker crumbs, vanilla wafers, or golden Oreos for a lighter crust.
- Want more texture? Add crushed candy canes on top for a crunchier finish.
- Looking for a classic? You’ll also love our Oreo cheesecake bites—a crowd-pleasing spin on the original.
These mini peppermint cheesecake cups are a sweet and simple way to add holiday cheer to your dessert lineup—no baking required! Whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a little winter indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheesecake
- Calories: 192 kcal
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 69 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg