Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake
Indulge in the ultimate holiday dessert with this rich and creamy Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake that combines the delightful flavors of chocolate and peppermint.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the cheesecake filling
- 3 packages 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cups 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups ½ cup sour cream
- 0.5 cups ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
For the topping
- Whipped cream
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until fully combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Make the filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until fluffy. Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, melted chocolate, and peppermint extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Bake the cheesecake
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for about an hour.
Chill the cheesecake
- After it has cooled at room temperature, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This will enhance the flavors and texture.
Serve
- Before serving, top with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Notes
If your cheesecake cracks while baking, it may be overcooked or the oven temperature was too high. To ensure even cooking, consider using a water bath for your next cheesecake.