If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping holiday dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, then Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes should be your new go-to treat. These little gems pack all the festive flavors you love—rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and creamy cheesecake—into perfectly bite-sized morsels. No baking required, just layers of Oreo cookie crust, luscious chocolate peppermint filling, silky ganache, and fluffy whipped cream topped with festive crushed peppermint candies for that extra sparkle. They’re guaranteed to wow your friends and family at any holiday gathering, or any time you want a decadent yet light dessert that feels special.

Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is simple, and each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and festive flair in your Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes. From the crunchy Oreo base to the smooth, minty chocolate filling, every element contributes to a harmonious holiday flavor experience.

Oreo cookie crumbs (2 cups/200 g): The classic cookie crust adds a crunchy, chocolaty foundation for your cheesecakes.
Granulated sugar (2 tbsp/24 g): Sweetens and helps bind the crust together perfectly.
Salted butter, melted (6 tbsp/85 g): Gives richness and holds the crust firmly in place.
Cream cheese, room temperature (16 oz/455 g): The star ingredient providing creamy, tangy cheesecake flavor.
Powdered sugar (2 cups/240 g): Smoothly sweetens the cheesecake filling without grittiness.
Dark cocoa powder (⅓ cup/30 g): Adds deep chocolate notes crucial for that luscious chocolate peppermint combo.
Peppermint extract (2 tsp): Infuses the filling with refreshing, festive mint flavor without overpowering.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
Heavy cream (1 cup/240 ml + additional for ganache and whipped cream): Provides richness and whips to a fluffy texture for both the filling and toppings.
Semisweet chocolate chips (½ cup/90 g): Melts into a smooth ganache layer for an extra chocolate punch.
Powdered sugar for whipped cream (2 tbsp/16 g): Adds delicate sweetness without watering down the cream.
Crushed peppermint candy (¼ cup/60 g): The festive finishing touch that adds crunch and a burst of color.

How to Make Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Cookie Crust

Start by combining Oreo cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted salted butter in a bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and look slightly like wet sand. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, firmly press about one tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each mini cheesecake pan cavity. This step is crucial for giving your mini cheesecakes a sturdy, flavorful base that perfectly complements the creamy chocolate peppermint filling.

Step 2: Whip Up the Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together room-temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar, dark cocoa powder, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until your mixture is perfectly smooth and uniform. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to whip on medium-high speed. This whips air into the batter, making it light, fluffy, and absolutely dreamy—the kind of texture that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Step 3: Pipe the Filling Onto the Crusts

Transfer the silky chocolate peppermint cheesecake batter into a piping bag (or a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped). Pipe the filling directly on top of each Oreo crust, mounding it just above the edges of the pan. Once all are filled, refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight. This chilling step is key for setting everything beautifully so your Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes hold their shape when removed from the pans.

Step 4: Make the Decadent Chocolate Ganache

While the cheesecakes chill, prepare the ganache by combining semisweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm the mixture in short 15-second bursts, stirring between each, until completely melted and silky smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly before assembling to avoid melting the cheesecake or whipped cream layers.

Step 5: Whip the Vanilla Cream

In a clean mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until medium-stiff peaks form. This fluffy, lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like topping that pairs perfectly with the rich ganache and chocolate peppermint filling.

Step 6: Assemble Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes

Carefully remove the cheesecakes from the pans once chilled. Spoon or pipe a glossy layer of the slightly cooled ganache on each mini cheesecake. Next, add a delicate swirl of the whipped cream on top using a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create those festive peaks. Finish by sprinkling crushed peppermint candy generously over each cheesecake right before serving. This keeps the candies crunchy and vibrant without any color bleeding.

How to Serve Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes

Garnishes

For serving, the classic crushed peppermint candy is the star garnish, adding both a pop of color and a satisfying crunch. You can also add mini chocolate shavings, a small peppermint stick, or even edible silver pearls for added festive sparkle. These little touches make each cheesecake feel extra special and gift-ready.

Side Dishes

Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes shine beautifully on their own but pairing them with a hot cup of peppermint tea or rich espresso elevates the experience. For a full holiday dessert spread, consider adding other seasonal treats like gingerbread cookies or a fruit platter featuring pomegranate seeds and orange slices to provide bright, fresh contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving these cheesecakes in clear mini dessert cups can showcase their layers for a stunning visual effect. Alternatively, arrange them on a festive platter lined with evergreen sprigs or holiday-themed doilies for a charming display. You might also package a few in small gift boxes or clear cellophane bags tied with red ribbon for delightful edible gifts that will wow your friends and neighbors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to three days, making them perfect for preparing early or enjoying slowly over the holiday season.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead of time and save some for later, you can freeze the cheesecakes without the whipped cream and peppermint candy topping. Wrap each cheesecake individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the whipped cream and candies fresh before serving.

Reheating

Since these cheesecakes are best served cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply let frozen cheesecakes thaw slowly in the fridge. The chilled texture is part of their charm, and warming them up would take away the creamy, refreshing peppermint contrast that makes these treats irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While Oreo cookies provide a classic chocolatey crunch, you can experiment with other chocolate cookies, chocolate graham crackers, or even peppermint-flavored cookies to add your own twist to the crust.

Is it possible to make these without dairy?

Replacing the cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut cream can work, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly from the traditional Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes.

How long do the Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes need to chill?

For the best texture, chilling overnight or for at least 12 hours is ideal. This allows the filling to set firmly and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I prepare these without a piping bag?

Yes! If you don’t have a piping bag, you can carefully spoon in the cheesecake filling and whipped cream, smoothing or swirling with the back of a spoon for a rustic, charming look.

What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies?

Place the candies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. This gives you control over the size of the pieces so you can choose whether you want a fine dusting or larger crunchy bits on top.

Final Thoughts

Mini Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecakes are an absolute holiday delight that brings together the perfect combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint with a creamy, no-bake filling. Whether you’re gifting them, serving at a party, or simply indulging yourself, these little desserts are sure to spread smiles and festive cheer. I can’t wait for you to try them and make them a new tradition in your dessert rotation!