The holidays invite us to wrap ourselves in cozy blankets, warm our hearts with sweet treats, and indulge in festive flavors that spark joy. These Peppermint Cheesecake Bars embody that spirit perfectly, with their creamy texture and refreshing burst of peppermint that dances on your tastebuds. Picture cutting into these luscious bars with smooth, rich cheesecake topped with a hint of festive red, each bite offering a delightful crunch if you opt for the candy canes. I can’t help but share these — they have quickly become a seasonal favorite in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peppermint Cheesecake Bars are not just a feast for the eyes; they deliver a unique blend of textures and flavors that pair perfectly for any holiday gathering or cozy night in. The softness of the cheesecake filling complements the crunchy edges beautifully. Plus, they are easy to make and can be customized, making them a joy to bake and share.

Ingredients Needed For Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

• 1 1/2 cups butter, softened: This is a key player for both the cheesecake and crust, adding a rich flavor. Ensure it’s softened for easy blending!
• 20 oz cream cheese, softened: Use a good quality cream cheese for a super smooth texture. No one wants a lumpy cheesecake!
• 1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweeten your filling to balance the peppermint flavor. A little goes a long way!
• 2 1/2 tsp peppermint extract: Opt for pure extract for a fresh, aromatic flavor. Adjust to taste to make it your own!
• Candy canes, optional: Crush these for a festive crunch on top, or sprinkle them throughout if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Red food coloring, optional: A fun way to add a festive flair! Just a few drops will do.
• For optional crust:
• 20-24 Oreos, finely crushed: If you’re a chocolate lover, go for the Ultimate Oreo crust.
• or 11 Graham crackers, finely crushed: A classic choice for a subtler base.
• 1/4 cup butter for Oreo crust: Melt it to help bind the crumbs.
• or 4 tbsp butter for Graham cracker crust: Again, melted is the way to go for easy mixing.

How to Make Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

1. Blend Ingredients: Start by using a hand mixer to combine all ingredients until smooth and creamy. You can add more peppermint extract if you love that minty kick!
2. Prepare the Pan: Pour your mixture into an 8×8 pan lined with wax or parchment paper. Make sure the paper hangs over the sides for easy removal later.
3. Add Color: For that festive touch, drop 3-5 drops of red food coloring on top of the cheesecake and gently swirl it using a knife.
4. Decorate: Swirl more drops of food coloring and sprinkle bits of crushed candy canes over the top.
5. Chill: Let the bars chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours to set completely.
6. Remove and Cut: Use the edges of the paper to lift the cheesecake from the pan. Cut into bars and serve.
7. Optional Crust: If using, mix the crushed Oreos or Graham crackers with melted butter and press it into the bottom of your pan before adding the cheesecake filling.

How to Serve Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

Serve these bars chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream on the side or a cup of hot cocoa. They make for a delightful dessert after a holiday feast or a sweet snack while enjoying winter festivities.

How to Store Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them well-wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the smoothest filling.
• Add More Peppermint: Feel free to adjust the peppermint extract to match your taste preference; some enjoy it with a strong minty flavor, while others prefer a hint.
• Crust Alternatives: If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cookies or crackers for your crust!

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap Extracts: If peppermint isn’t your thing, vanilla or almond extract could provide a lovely alternative.
• Cheesecake Style: For a chocolate version, consider adding melted chocolate to your cream cheese mixture, or use a chocolate cookie crust.
• Other Toppings: Switch up the toppings with crushed nuts or drizzled chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in the fridge, wrapped tightly, and they will stay fresh and delicious.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done chilling?

They should be firm to the touch and hold their shape when cut. If they still feel soft, give them a bit more time in the fridge.

Can I freeze Peppermint Cheesecake Bars?

Yes, you can! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of candy canes for decoration?

You could use crushed peppermint candies, crushed nuts, or sprinkles for a festive touch without the crunch of candy canes!

Can I use another type of cheese?

While cream cheese provides the best texture, you could experiment with mascarpone for a creamier texture or ricotta for a lighter option, though the latter may require adjustments in sweetness.

Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

Delight in these creamy Peppermint Cheesecake Bars with a rich cheesecake filling and festive flavors enhanced by crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday gatherings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American, Holiday

Servings 12 bars

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

Cheesecake Filling

• 20 oz cream cheese, softened Use a good quality cream cheese for a super smooth texture.
• 1.5 cups sugar Sweeten your filling to balance the peppermint flavor.
• 2.5 tsp peppermint extract Opt for pure extract for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• 1.5 cups butter, softened This adds a rich flavor to both the cheesecake and crust.

Optional Crust

• 20-24 pieces Oreo cookies, finely crushed Use for a chocolate lover’s version.
• 11 pieces Graham crackers, finely crushed Classic choice for a subtler base.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted Use for mixing with crushed Oreos.
• 4 tbsp butter, melted Use for mixing with Graham cracker crumbs.

Decorative Toppings

• to taste candy canes, crushed For a festive crunch on top.
• 3-5 drops red food coloring, optional For a festive touch.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Blend all cheesecake filling ingredients using a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
• If using for the crust, mix the crushed Oreos or Graham crackers with melted butter and press it into the bottom of the pan.
• Pour the cheesecake mixture into an 8×8 pan lined with wax or parchment paper.
• Add 3-5 drops of red food coloring on top and gently swirl it using a knife.

Decorating

• Swirl more drops of food coloring and sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top.

Chilling

• Let the bars chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours to set completely.

Serving

• Use the edges of the paper to lift the cheesecake from the pan, cut into bars, and serve.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.

Keyword Cheesecake Bars, Easy Recipe, Festive Treat, Holiday Dessert, Peppermint Cheesecake