These No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Bites are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and refreshing peppermint, all in a bite-sized package! With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a cool, minty filling, these bites are great for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply indulging in a festive dessert. The addition of crushed candy canes makes them extra special and perfect for the season.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (plus extra for garnish)
Topping (optional):
- Extra crushed candy canes
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle
Preparation:
1: Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a mini muffin tin or silicone molds to create the crust. Place the tin in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
2: Make the Peppermint Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the peppermint extract and mix well, adjusting the amount to your desired minty flavor.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for a festive crunch.
3: Assemble the Cheesecake Bites
- Remove the crusts from the fridge and spoon the peppermint cheesecake filling onto each crust, smoothing the tops with a spatula or spoon.
- Return the bites to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4: Add Toppings
- Before serving, garnish the bites with extra crushed candy canes. You can also top them with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of melted chocolate for added decadence.
5: Serve and Enjoy
- Gently remove the cheesecake bites from the muffin tin or molds and serve chilled. These festive treats are best enjoyed cold!
Variations:
- Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Bites: Add a layer of melted chocolate over the graham cracker crust before adding the peppermint cheesecake filling for an extra indulgent treat.
- Oreo Peppermint Cheesecake Bites: Use crushed Oreo cookies instead of graham crackers for the crust to add a rich, chocolatey base to your peppermint bites.
- Vegan Peppermint Cheesecake Bites: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and a plant-based graham cracker crust to make a vegan version of these festive bites.
Cooking Notes:
- Chill time is important: Be sure to let the cheesecake bites chill for at least an hour to allow them to set properly before serving.
- Use silicone molds for easy removal: Silicone molds or mini muffin liners will help make removing the cheesecake bites easier without breaking them.
- Adjust the peppermint flavor: Start with 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract and taste before adding more, as the flavor can be quite strong.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect for holiday parties: These no-bake peppermint cheesecake bites are ideal for serving at holiday gatherings. Their small size makes them perfect finger food for festive events.
- Great for gifting: Package these cheesecake bites in a holiday tin or decorative box for a thoughtful, homemade gift.
- Serve with hot chocolate: Pair these bites with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy, festive dessert experience.
Tips:
- Make ahead: These cheesecake bites can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve them.
- Store leftovers: Keep any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Add a chocolate layer: For extra flavor, drizzle the bites with melted dark or white chocolate for a beautiful and delicious topping.
Prep Time:
20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cooking Time:
0 minutes (no-bake)
Total Time:
1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling)
Nutritional Information (Per Bite):
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 70mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
A: Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream by whipping 1/2 cup of heavy cream with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar until soft peaks form, then fold it into the filling.
Q: Can I freeze these cheesecake bites?
A: Yes! These bites freeze well. Just store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q: Can I use other types of cookies for the crust?
A: Absolutely! Gingersnap cookies, chocolate wafers, or even vanilla wafers can be used for the crust for a different flavor.
Conclusion:
No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Bites are the perfect festive dessert for the holiday season. With a creamy peppermint filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, these bite-sized treats are sure to bring a little extra cheer to your gatherings. Easy to make and full of holiday flavor, they’re the perfect addition to your dessert table. Enjoy these refreshing, minty bites with friends, family, or as a special holiday indulgence!
Print
No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Bites
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling)
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (plus extra for garnish)
Topping (optional):
- Extra crushed candy canes
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle
Instructions
Preparation:
1: Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a mini muffin tin or silicone molds to create the crust. Place the tin in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
2: Make the Peppermint Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the peppermint extract and mix well, adjusting the amount to your desired minty flavor.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Stir in the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for a festive crunch.
3: Assemble the Cheesecake Bites
- Remove the crusts from the fridge and spoon the peppermint cheesecake filling onto each crust, smoothing the tops with a spatula or spoon.
- Return the bites to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 1 hour to firm up.
4: Add Toppings
- Before serving, garnish the bites with extra crushed candy canes. You can also top them with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of melted chocolate for added decadence.
5: Serve and Enjoy
- Gently remove the cheesecake bites from the muffin tin or molds and serve chilled. These festive treats are best enjoyed cold!
Notes
- Chill time is important: Be sure to let the cheesecake bites chill for at least an hour to allow them to set properly before serving.
- Use silicone molds for easy removal: Silicone molds or mini muffin liners will help make removing the cheesecake bites easier without breaking them.
- Adjust the peppermint flavor: Start with 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract and taste before adding more, as the flavor can be quite strong.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
Nutrition
- Calories: 170
- Sodium: 70mg
- Protein: 2g