A Cheesecake Made for the Holidays

When the holiday season arrives, desserts take center stage. Tables fill with cookies, cakes, and confections meant to comfort, delight, and celebrate togetherness. Among these festive treats, peppermint cheesecake stands out as a show-stopping dessert that perfectly captures the magic of winter celebrations.

This Delicious Peppermint Cheesecake combines the richness of classic cheesecake with the cool, refreshing flavor of peppermint. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing—ideal after hearty holiday meals. With its smooth texture, crisp crust, and unmistakable peppermint aroma, this cheesecake feels both nostalgic and elegant.

Peppermint has long been associated with winter festivities, from candy canes to chocolate bark. Incorporating it into a creamy cheesecake elevates it into a dessert worthy of Christmas dinners, New Year’s gatherings, and festive parties of all kinds.

What Makes This Cheesecake Special

Ultra-creamy texture with no graininess
Balanced peppermint flavor—refreshing, not overpowering
Elegant presentation for holiday tables
Perfect make-ahead dessert for entertaining

This cheesecake is designed to impress while remaining approachable for home bakers.

Flavor & Texture Experience

Every slice delivers:

Crunchy crust that contrasts with the filling
Velvety cheesecake that melts on the tongue
Cool peppermint notes that refresh the palate
Optional chocolate accents for depth and contrast

It’s a dessert that feels festive without feeling heavy.

INGREDIENTS

Crust

1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

24 ounces cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
¾ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Topping (Optional)

Whipped cream
Crushed peppermint candies
Chocolate shavings

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Combine cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan and set aside.
Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing until smooth.
Pour filling over prepared crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 50–55 minutes until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake cool gradually.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Garnish with whipped cream, peppermint candies, or chocolate shavings before serving.

Holiday Presentation Tips

Pipe whipped cream rosettes for elegance
Sprinkle crushed candy canes lightly for sparkle
Use chocolate curls for a refined finish

A little garnish goes a long way in making this cheesecake feel festive.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Make up to 2 days in advance
Store covered in the refrigerator
Freeze slices individually for longer storage

This cheesecake actually improves in flavor after chilling.