Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Can you believe the holidays are here again?” I overheard my friend exclaim as we strolled past a bustling bakery, the smell of peppermint and chocolate wafting through the air. The holiday season truly beckons for indulgent treats, and that’s where my dreamy White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake comes in! This festive dessert is not only a feast for the eyes with its velvety layers; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday gatherings. Imagine the smiles as your loved ones savor the creamy sweetness mingled with refreshing peppermint—it’s an instant mood booster that elevates any celebration! So, are you ready to dazzle your guests with a dessert that’s sure to leave a lasting impression? Let’s get started! Why is this cheesecake a holiday must? Indulgent flavors: The blend of creamy white chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a holiday flavor sensation that will impress your guests. Visually stunning: With its rich texture and festive garnish of crushed peppermint, this cheesecake makes for a gorgeous centerpiece at any gathering. Effortlessly simple: Perfect for those who want to create something special without hours in the kitchen—this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or family, the delightful combination of flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds. Flexible options: Want to mix it up? Try adding a layer of chocolate ganache or even serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a delightful twist! Don’t forget to check out our other favorites like Chocolate Peanut Butter or Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake for more decadent dessert inspiration. White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Ingredients For the Crust • Graham Cracker Crumbs – Provides the base structure for the cheesecake; substitute with gluten-free crumbs for a gluten-free version. • Sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust and filling; consider using coconut sugar for a healthier option. • Butter – Binds crust ingredients together, adding richness; a dairy-free alternative can be utilized if necessary. For the Filling • Cream Cheese – The key ingredient for the filling, creating a smooth and creamy texture; low-fat versions work well for a lighter cheesecake. • White Chocolate – Adds a sweet, rich flavor to the filling; opt for sugar-free white chocolate for a healthier choice. • Sour Cream – Provides creaminess and a hint of tang; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a lighter alternative. • Eggs – Essential for setting the cheesecake while adding a rich texture; use aquafaba as a vegan substitute. • Peppermint Extract – Infuses the cheesecake with refreshing minty flavor, adjust to your desired intensity. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile for a delightful taste experience. Embrace the beauty of this White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake—the perfect festive treat for any holiday gathering! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Step 1: Prepare the Crust Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect base for your cheesecake. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely before adding the creamy filling. Step 2: Make the Filling In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the sugar and blend until fully incorporated. Now, add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition to maintain airiness. Finally, mix in melted white chocolate, sour cream, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until the filling is luscious and velvety. Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Pour your decadent filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour to gently finish baking. Step 4: Chill and Garnish After the hour in the oven, remove the cheesecake and allow it to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to develop its rich flavors. Before serving your delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch and added crunch. What to Serve with White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Elevate your holiday gathering with delightful pairings that complement the creamy, festive flavors of this luxurious dessert. Fresh Berries: Their natural sweetness and tartness create a beautiful contrast to the rich cheesecake, adding a vibrant pop of color. Think strawberries, raspberries, or even blueberries for a refreshing bite. Chocolate Drizzle: A decadent drizzle of silky chocolate ganache can intensify the dessert’s sweetness while adding a lovely, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with white chocolate. Whipped Cream: Soft, airy whipped cream brings an extra layer of creaminess and lightness, balancing the dense texture of the cheesecake and giving each bite a dreamy finish. Peppermint Hot Cocoa: A cozy cup of peppermint-infused hot chocolate is the perfect warming drink to complement the minty notes of the cheesecake, enhancing the festive experience for your guests. Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee or a shot of espresso help cut through the sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for those who appreciate a warm beverage alongside dessert. Hazelnut Cookie Crumbs: Sprinkling some crushed hazelnut cookies on top adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing every slice with a delightful texture contrast. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream offers a cooling element that harmonizes beautifully with the warm flavors of the cheesecake, taking dessert to the next level. Holiday Sparkling Cider: A glass of bubbly holiday cider adds a festive touch and the fruity notes contrast delightfully with the rich, creamy cheesecake. These delightful pairings will not only enhance the experience of your White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake but also create memories filled with joy and warmth around the holiday table. Make Ahead Options These White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, pressing them into the pan, and storing it covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, the filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before filling the crust. Just ensure it is in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the filling over the crust and bake as directed; you’ll have a sophisticated dessert ready to impress with minimal effort! Variations & Substitutions for White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this cheesecake truly yours with these delightful ideas! Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour to create a deliciously crumbly base. Your cheesecake will still maintain that festive flair! Sugar-Free Option: Swap traditional sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit for a diabetes-friendly dessert that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Dairy-Free Delight: For a vegan twist, replace cream cheese with cashew cream and use coconut cream instead of sour cream, creating a luscious and creamy texture everyone will adore. Mocha Madness: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the filling for a delightful mocha flavor kick, making this cheesecake even more indulgent. Chocolate Swirl: Create a beautiful marbled effect by swirling melted dark chocolate into the cream cheese filling before baking. It adds richness and visual appeal! Refreshing Citrus: Mix in the zest of an orange or lemon with the peppermint to elevate the flavor profile and bring a citrusy brightness to your cheesecake. Rich Ganache Layer: Top the cheesecake with a layer of chocolate ganache made from dark chocolate and cream for a decedent finish that chocolate lovers will swoon over. Don’t hesitate to play around with these variations while making your White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake! And for other delectable dessert ideas, be sure to check out our delicious Oreo Cheesecake Decadent or try a slice of our scrumptious Chocolate Chip Cookie bars! Expert Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Check for Jiggly Center: Ensure your cheesecake is fully set around the edges but remains slightly jiggly in the center for the perfect creamy texture. Make Ahead: For the best flavor, make your White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Use a Springform Pan: Opt for a springform pan for easy release. It also makes for a beautiful presentation, allowing your guests to see the layers. Don’t Overmix: When incorporating eggs into the filling, mix gently to maintain airiness. Overmixing can lead to a denser cheesecake. Chill Properly: Allow your cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating. Chilling overnight is ideal, ensuring it sets perfectly and enhances the flavors. Storage Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Fridge: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping it fresh and delicious for your indulgent treats. Freezer: If you need to keep it longer, freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cheesecake, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw gently, preserving its silky texture. Serving: For the best experience, serve the chilled White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake with a garnish of crushed peppermint candies right after thawing for a delightful crunch. White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of graham cracker crumbs should I use? You can use regular graham cracker crumbs for the crust, but if you’re catering to gluten-free diets, I absolutely recommend using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs instead. They offer the same crunchy texture and sweet flavor without the gluten. How should I store leftover cheesecake? To keep your leftover White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well-covered to avoid any moisture entering and impacting its creamy texture. Can I freeze the cheesecake? If so, how? Yes, you can freeze your cheesecake! To do this, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn—this keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer your cheesecake to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This gentle thawing method helps maintain that luscious, velvety texture. What do I do if the cheesecake cracks while baking? Don’t worry! Cracks are a common issue with cheesecakes. To prevent this, ensure you’re not overmixing, especially after adding the eggs. Also, baking it in a water bath can help keep the temperature consistent and reduce cracking. If it does crack, you can always top it with whipped cream or a chocolate ganache to hide it! Can I use an alternative to cream cheese for a dairy-free version? Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan cream cheese. Just keep in mind it might slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it will still yield a delicious White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake. Is this recipe suitable for pets? No, this cheesecake is not suitable for pets. The ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep your homemade treats away from your furry friends, even if they look longingly at it! Decadent White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake for the Holidays This White Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake is a festive, easy-to-make dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 20 minutes mins Servings: 10 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust1 1/2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs substitute with gluten-free crumbs for a gluten-free version1/4 cup Sugar consider using coconut sugar for a healthier option1/2 cup Butter a dairy-free alternative can be utilized if necessaryFor the Filling24 ounces Cream Cheese low-fat versions work well for a lighter cheesecake8 ounces White Chocolate opt for sugar-free white chocolate for a healthier choice1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a lighter alternative3 large Eggs use aquafaba as a vegan substitute1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract adjust to your desired intensity1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Equipment 9-inch Springform PanMixing bowlsElectric MixerSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely before adding the filling.In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the sugar and blend until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition. Mix in melted white chocolate, sour cream, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until the filling is velvety.Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until edges are set and center remains slightly jiggly. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake for an additional hour.After an hour, remove cheesecake and let it cool to room temperature. Transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Garnish with crushed peppermint candies before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 6gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 17gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure your cheesecake is fully set around the edges but remains slightly jiggly in the center. For the best flavor, make a day in advance. Use a springform pan for easy release and better presentation. Do not overmix when incorporating eggs, and chill properly. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!