This peppermint swirl cheesecake is a delightful holiday treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its rich, creamy texture and festive red swirls, this cheesecake is perfect for special occasions like Christmas or a cozy winter gathering. I remember the first time I made it—my family couldn’t get enough of the refreshing minty flavor combined with the creamy decadence. It’s definitely a showstopper that brings a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
Why you’ll love this dish
This cheesecake isn’t just visually stunning; it’s also incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. The combination of peppermint and cream cheese creates a unique flavor profile that’s refreshing without being overwhelming. Perfect for holiday celebrations, birthdays, or simply indulgent family nights, this dessert is kid-approved and is bound to become a tradition in your home. Moreover, it’s budget-friendly, requiring simple, readily available ingredients.
“This is the best cheesecake I’ve ever made! The peppermint really shines through, and my guests were so impressed with the swirls.” – Happy Baker
Step-by-step overview
Creating your own peppermint swirl cheesecake may sound daunting, but I assure you it’s quite easy when you break it down into simple steps. You’ll start by making the crust, whip up the creamy filling, layer it beautifully, and then bake it to perfection.
What you’ll need
Before diving into the baking, here’s a list of ingredients to gather:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2-3 tablespoons red food coloring
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring you mix well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and sour cream until well incorporated.
- Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it gently.
- Take the remaining mixture and color it with red food coloring. Spoon it over the first layer of cheesecake mixture and use a knife to create mesmerizing swirls.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
- When ready to serve, top with whipped cream if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
To present your peppermint swirl cheesecake, consider placing it on a decorative serving plate and garnishing with crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa or a warm spiced chai, making it a delightful ending to your winter meals.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Helpful cooking tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for the smoothest texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: When adding the eggs, mix just until combined to prevent a dense cheesecake.
- Perfect Swirls: For an eye-catching presentation, use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the red mixture into the white—less is more!
Creative twists
Feel free to play with flavors! Instead of peppermint extract, try using orange or almond extract for a different twist. You might also incorporate different toppings such as chocolate ganache or fresh berries for a seasonal flair.
Common questions
What is the prep time for peppermint swirl cheesecake?
It generally takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare, plus baking and chilling time.Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! A chocolate cookie crust or even a nut-based crust can give delicious variations.How long can I store my cheesecake?
Leftovers can be safely stored in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for up to three months.Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it might slightly alter the texture. It may not be as rich and creamy, but it can still taste great!
With these tips and the delightful layers of flavor, your peppermint swirl cheesecake is bound to impress! Enjoy this festive treat, and happy baking!
Print
Peppermint Swirl Cheesecake
- Total Time: 240 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful holiday cheesecake featuring refreshing peppermint and creamy texture, perfect for festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2-3 tablespoons red food coloring
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined, then press into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and sour cream until well incorporated.
- Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the crust, spreading gently.
- Color the remaining mixture with red food coloring, spoon it over the first layer, and use a knife to create swirls.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set yet slightly jiggly.
- Cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Top with whipped cream if desired before serving.
Notes
For perfect swirls, use a toothpick or skewer to create patterns in the colored mixture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American