No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups Recipe

There is something truly magical about holiday desserts that combine creamy, minty, and chocolatey elements, and these No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups are exactly that kind of magic. Imagine a velvety cheesecake filling infused with refreshing peppermint, layered perfectly atop a crunchy Oreo crust, all served in adorable cups you can whip up without even turning on your oven. These cups are a celebration in every bite, bursting with festive flavors and delightful textures that will have your guests rushing back for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a last-minute holiday party, these cheesecake cups bring joy with zero fuss and maximum indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple and straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the rich, festive flavors and the perfect creamy consistency that makes these No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups so irresistible.

• Oreo cookies (12 crust + 4-5 topping): Provide the iconic chocolate cookie crunch and a sturdy base for your cups.
• Unsalted butter (3 tbsp): Binds the crushed Oreos into a firm, buttery crust that stays intact.
• Cream cheese (250g, softened): Gives the filling its signature creamy texture and tang that balances the sweetness.
• Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the filling smoothly without graininess.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake base.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup, whipped): Lightens the filling and makes it luxuriously fluffy.
• Peppermint extract (1/4 tsp): Delivers the refreshing, cool mint flavor that makes these cups festive.
• Mini candy canes or peppermint pieces (optional garnish): Bring eye-catching sparkle and an extra peppermint crunch.

How to Make No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

Start by crushing 12 Oreo cookies until they resemble fine crumbs—this is the foundation of your dessert. Mix these crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until the texture is similar to wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottoms of 4 to 6 serving cups. Pop the cups into the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes; chilling helps the crust set up nicely and makes it easier to layer the cheesecake filling on top.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed here! This smooth base is key to that melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake experience. Then stir in the peppermint extract carefully; peppermint can be strong, so a little goes a long way in lending that perfect holiday touch.

Step 3: Fold in Whipped Cream

Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into your cream cheese mixture. The gentle folding technique is essential to keep all the airy fluffiness intact, which results in a light, luscious filling instead of a dense one. This fluffy texture balances beautifully against the firm Oreo crust.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

Now spoon the cheesecake filling over the chilled Oreo crust in each cup. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon for an elegant finish. To really make these No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups shine, generously sprinkle crushed Oreos and optional peppermint pieces on top, adding that irresistible crunch and festive flair.

Step 5: Chill Until Set

Place your assembled cups back into the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours. This chill time is crucial as it allows the cheesecake filling to firm up perfectly while the flavors meld wonderfully together. Serve these cups cold straight from the fridge for the ideal creamy, minty dessert experience.

How to Serve No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra crushed Oreo crumbs or broken mini candy canes right before serving to add texture and festive sparkle. Fresh mint leaves can also bring a pop of color and complement the peppermint flavor perfectly.

Side Dishes

These cheesecake cups pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate, intensifying the dessert’s peppermint and chocolate notes. A small bowl of fresh berries can add a juicy, slightly tart contrast that brightens each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the cheesecake filling and Oreo crust in transparent mini mason jars or clear shot glasses to show off the beautiful stripes. Alternatively, top each cup with a whole mini Oreo or a decorative peppermint swirl for a festive, Instagram-worthy look that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups covered tightly with plastic wrap or in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep their lovely texture and flavor for up to 3 days, making them perfect for prepping early or enjoying over a few days.

Freezing

You can freeze these cheesecake cups if you want to make them extra ahead of time. Cover each cup securely with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When frozen, they should stay deliciously fresh for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to restore their creamy goodness.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer to take the chill off, allow the cups to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before digging in, but avoid warming them as it will alter the texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream instead of heavy cream?

It’s best to use heavy cream whipped to soft peaks because it provides the necessary structure and fluffiness. Regular cream won’t whip properly and could make the filling too runny.

How much peppermint extract should I add?

The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon, which is just the right amount for a noticeable but not overpowering peppermint flavor. If you like stronger mint, add a few drops more very carefully since it’s quite potent.

Can I make these without Oreos?

Absolutely! You can substitute the Oreo cookies with any chocolate sandwich cookie or even crushed chocolate graham crackers to change the texture and flavor while keeping the charm of the dessert intact.

Are these cups suitable for kids?

Yes, these are kid-friendly as long as the peppermint extract is used in moderation. Kids usually love the creamy texture and the familiar Oreo taste, making these an excellent treat for little ones.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Definitely! This recipe scales up easily. Just keep the proportions accurate and be sure to use enough cups for serving. The no-bake method makes it convenient to whip up larger batches for parties.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a festive dessert that’s effortless, show-stopping, or simply a sweet way to celebrate winter flavors, the No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Cheesecake Cups tick all the boxes. They’re creamy yet light, minty yet chocolatey, and best of all, they require no baking—so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the season with your loved ones. Give them a try and watch these delightful cups disappear before your eyes!

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