Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake 

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
  (from about 24 chocolate sandwich cookies, filling removed)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the Filling

• 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¾ teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 1 ½ cups cold heavy whipping cream

For the Topping

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or coconut oil
• ⅓ cup finely crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Crust

1. In a bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
2. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and look like wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan (you can press it slightly up the sides if you like).
4. Place in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to set.

2️⃣ Prepare the Peppermint Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until well blended.
3. Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

3️⃣ Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Spoon the peppermint filling over the chilled crust.
2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until fully set.

4️⃣ Make the Chocolate Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the heavy cream (or coconut oil) in 15–20 second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Let the chocolate cool slightly so it thickens but is still pourable.
3. Drizzle the chocolate over the chilled cheesecake.
4. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top before the chocolate sets.

5️⃣ Serve

• Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.
• Keep refrigerated until serving.
• Add extra whipped cream or more candy cane pieces if you want it extra festive!