The No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake is a decadent holiday treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the festive crunch of Oreo cookies and peppermint. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, winter parties, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this dessert is easy to prepare and requires no oven time. With its layers of chocolate cookie crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and peppermint garnish, this dessert is not only visually stunning but also irresistibly delicious.

Cheesecake lovers will appreciate the simplicity of a no-bake recipe, while those pressed for time will love how quickly it comes together. Whether you’re serving this for holiday entertaining or a cozy winter night in, it’s guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

Crust

24 Oreo cookies, finely crushed
5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp peppermint extract
1 ½ cups heavy cream

Topping

6 Oreo cookies, crushed
1 tsp crushed peppermint candy or candy cane
Optional: chocolate drizzle for extra decoration

Instructions

Prepare the crust:
In a medium bowl, mix the finely crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or individual serving cups. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to set.
Make the cheesecake filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
Whip the cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Combine filling and cream:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care to maintain the light, airy texture.
Assemble the cheesecake:
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and chill for at least 2–3 hours, or until firm.
Add the topping:
Just before serving, sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies and peppermint candy over the cheesecake. Optionally, drizzle with melted chocolate for a festive look.
Serve:
Slice the cheesecake into portions or serve in individual cups. Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Tips for the Perfect No-Bake Cheesecake

Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
Chilling Time: Do not skip the chilling process; it ensures the cheesecake sets properly.
Whip Cream Properly: Whipping to stiff peaks is crucial for a light, airy texture.

Variations

Chocolate Peppermint: Add a layer of melted chocolate between the crust and filling for a double chocolate effect.
Mini Cheesecakes: Use cupcake liners or small glasses to make individual servings.
Other Cookies: Swap Oreo cookies with chocolate wafer cookies or ginger snaps for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy winter treat.
Top with fresh berries for a colorful holiday presentation.
Garnish with whole Oreo halves for a fun and decorative touch.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Peppermint desserts have a long history of being associated with the winter holiday season, thanks to their cooling flavor and festive appeal.
Oreos, first introduced in 1912, have become a classic ingredient in countless dessert recipes, including cheesecakes and ice creams.
No-bake cheesecakes gained popularity as an easier alternative to traditional baked versions, allowing for creamy textures without the oven.

This No Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake combines tradition with convenience, making it a holiday favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.