Peppermint Bark Holiday Cheesecake

A festive and decadent holiday dessert, Peppermint Bark Holiday Cheesecake combines a creamy, candy-cane–studded filling with chocolate chunks, a dark chocolate-cookie crust, and a light peppermint whipped topping. It delivers the perfect balance of rich, velvety cheesecake and refreshing mint, making it an irresistible centerpiece for holiday gatherings, Christmas parties, and winter celebrations.

Yield

8–10 slices

Time

1 hour bake + chilling

Temperature

325°F (163°C)

Ingredients

Key Ingredients First

24 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs

Crust

1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chocolate chunks or mini chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

Peppermint Whipped Topping

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Crushed peppermint for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Combine chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then let the crust cool.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add sugar and mix until creamy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each.
Stir in vanilla, peppermint extract, sour cream, and heavy cream.
Fold in chocolate chunks and crushed peppermint candies.
Pour the mixture over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

Bake for 50–60 minutes until the center is slightly jiggly but mostly set.
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Make the Peppermint Whipped Topping

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the chilled cheesecake.
Sprinkle extra crushed peppermint or chocolate for decoration.

Tips

For a stronger peppermint flavor, add a touch more extract, but avoid overpowering the cheesecake.
Use a water bath for an extra-smooth, crack-free cheesecake.
Slightly crush whole candy canes for colorful topping texture.
Chill overnight to maximize firmness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with hot chocolate, coffee, or a festive peppermint mocha. This cheesecake also pairs beautifully with chocolate fudge sauce or crushed chocolate bark.

Conclusion

Peppermint Bark Holiday Cheesecake brings festive holiday flavors together in a creamy, rich dessert with the perfect hint of mint. From the dark chocolate cookie crust to the airy peppermint topping, every layer offers a delightful holiday twist. It’s an ideal dessert for Christmas gatherings, winter celebrations, and any occasion that calls for a show-stopping seasonal treat.