Peppermint Bark Cheesecake

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

A slice of peppermint bark cheesecake is like a bite of wintery holiday magic. With a velvety cream cheese base, bursts of peppermint crunch, and a chocolate cookie crust, this dessert delivers all the nostalgic joy of peppermint bark candy in cheesecake form. It’s both festive and indulgent, making it a standout treat for any winter gathering or cozy night in.

What makes this cheesecake truly unforgettable is its perfect harmony of textures. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the crisp chocolate crust and the occasional peppermint candy crunch. Topped with silky chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint, every bite brings a burst of minty freshness followed by rich chocolate warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Bark Cheesecake

This dessert is a showstopper for holiday parties and special occasions. The flavor combination of chocolate and peppermint is timeless, and this cheesecake captures it in the most luscious way possible. It can be made ahead of time, stores well in the fridge, and always impresses with its festive flair.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional cheesecakes or looking for something new to add to your holiday dessert table, this one is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Can I Use Candy Cane Instead of Peppermint Bark?

Yes, absolutely! Crushed candy canes work beautifully in place of peppermint bark if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure they’re finely crushed so they mix well into the cheesecake batter. If you still want that chocolatey touch, consider adding mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to replicate the bark experience.

Ingredients for the Peppermint Bark Cheesecake

To create this peppermint bark cheesecake, you’ll need a few layers of ingredients that come together to form a decadent, holiday-worthy dessert.

Chocolate Cookie Crust adds a bittersweet crunch to balance the creamy filling.

Cream Cheese forms the rich and smooth base of the cheesecake.

Granulated Sugar brings just the right amount of sweetness.

Sour Cream helps make the filling extra velvety and slightly tangy.

Eggs are essential for structure and binding the batter.

Vanilla Extract enhances all the flavors without overpowering the peppermint.

Peppermint Extract adds that signature minty bite.

Crushed Peppermint Bark or Candy Canes offer that irresistible festive crunch.

Heavy Cream is used in the ganache topping for a silky, luxurious finish.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate creates a rich ganache that tops it all off with a glossy layer.

How To Make the Peppermint Bark Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep the Crust

Crush chocolate cookies and combine them with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan and bake it briefly to set the crust.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, sour cream, eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Mix until creamy. Fold in the crushed peppermint bark or candy cane pieces.

Step 3: Bake with Care

Pour the batter into the crust and bake in a water bath until the center is just set. Let it cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Top It Off

Melt the chocolate with heavy cream to create a ganache. Pour over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly. Sprinkle more crushed peppermint on top for sparkle and crunch.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Use a hot knife for clean slices and serve chilled. Watch it disappear faster than snowflakes in the sun.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesecake

This peppermint bark cheesecake serves 10 to 12 generous slices, making it ideal for holiday celebrations or a week of sweet snacking. Serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or peppermint mocha.

To store, keep the cheesecake in the fridge covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices by wrapping them well and storing them in freezer bags for up to a month.

What to Serve With Peppermint Bark Cheesecake?

Hot Chocolate

A warm cup of hot cocoa enhances the peppermint theme and makes dessert extra cozy.

Peppermint Mocha

Double down on the peppermint with a creamy peppermint mocha on the side.

Espresso

The bitterness of espresso balances the sweetness of the cheesecake perfectly.

Fresh Berries

Add a tart pop of color and flavor with fresh raspberries or strawberries.

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels

For an extra crunch and salty contrast, pretzels dipped in chocolate are a great side.

Whipped Cream

Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a cloud-like touch.

Crushed Candy Cane Topping

If serving guests, offer a small bowl of crushed candy cane for sprinkling.

Festive Sugar Cookies

Pair with your favorite Christmas cookies for a dessert sampler plate.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If this peppermint bark cheesecake got you hooked, you’ll adore these other delicious desserts:

• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls for a fruity twist.
• No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake that’s easy and crowd-pleasing.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread if you’re into rich, nostalgic flavors.
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for a deep-fried treat.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with peppermint bark or candy canes? Add a chocolate drizzle or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Ask anything you need in the comments – let’s bake up a peppermint storm together!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy desserts on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite winter recipe: Luna Meals on Pinterest

Conclusion

Peppermint bark cheesecake is the kind of dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better. It brings together the nostalgia of peppermint candies with the indulgence of cheesecake and the sophistication of a ganache topping. Whether you’re making it for the holidays or just because, this recipe is a delicious way to sweeten your season.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?