Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes (including refrigeration)
Servings: 16 bars
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 240
Protein: 4g per serving
Carbohydrates: 31g per serving
Fat: 12g per serving
Fiber: 1g per serving
Sugar: 20g per serving
Sodium: 190mg per serving

Why Make This Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

The holiday season is all about indulgence and delicious treats, and what better way to celebrate than with Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars? These delightful bars combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with a refreshing burst of peppermint, making them an instant favorite at any holiday gathering. With a crunchy Oreo crust and colorful peppermint candy topping, they not only taste divine but also look festive and inviting. Plus, they are easy to make, and who doesn’t appreciate a simple, impressive dessert during the bustling holiday season?

How to Make Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups crushed Oreo cookies
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Whipped cream for topping
Additional crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan. This step ensures that your cheesecake bars come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mixing the Crust

In a bowl, mix the crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until thoroughly combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a firm crust. This will serve as a delicious foundation for your cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Mixing the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. This process removes any lumps, giving your cheesecake filling a silky texture.

Step 4: Adding Eggs and Flavors

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a light and airy mixture. Next, stir in the peppermint extract and sour cream until the filling is smooth and creamy. These ingredients infuse a delightful peppermint flavor that makes the bars distinctly festive.

Step 5: Incorporating Peppermint Candies

Fold in the crushed peppermint candies gently into the mixture, being careful not to deflate your batter. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure every bar has a perfect filling to crust ratio.

Step 6: Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature.

Step 7: Chilling

Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.

Step 8: Serving

Serve your bars topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of additional crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch. The combination of cooling cream and crunchy candy will elevate each bite!

How to Serve Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

These cheesecake bars are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a festive treat on Christmas Eve. Pair them with hot cocoa, coffee, or a holiday punch for a delightful dessert experience. For presentation, consider plating them on a decorative serving dish, and don’t forget about colored sprinkles or candy canes for added decoration!

How to Store Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 5 days. If you wish to freeze them, cut them into individual bars, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
Use crushed candy canes instead of peppermint candies for an even stronger peppermint flavor and a more festive look.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the crust mixture.
Avoid overbaking the cheesecake; it should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven.
For a beautiful presentation, drizzle chocolate sauce over the bars just before serving.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Peppermint Bars: Add melted chocolate to the filling for a chocolate-peppermint twist.
Nutty Crust: Substitute the Oreo crust with a mix of crushed almonds or walnuts and butter for added texture and flavor.
No-Bake Version: For a no-bake alternative, try using a gelatin base and whip up the filling without baking—just allow time to set in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance, making them a great option for holiday parties.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can use plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream. Both will provide a similar tanginess.
How can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free Oreo cookies for the crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use different flavored extracts?
Absolutely! Try using vanilla bean or almond extract for a unique flavor profile in your cheesecake.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
If cracks appear, don’t worry! You can cover them with whipped cream or crushed candies for a decorative touch.

Conclusion

These Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Cheesecake Bars are a festive treat bursting with holiday cheer. With their creamy filling, crunchy crust, and refreshing peppermint flavor, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Their easy preparation and inviting presentation make them a must-try this holiday season. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch and bring some joy to your dessert table—your friends and family will thank you!