A symphony of flavors unfolds with every spoonful of the No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars, an indulgent treat wrapped in softness and the spirit of the season. Each layer narrates a story of creamy elegance meeting a whisper of mint, beckoning you to indulge in a sweet moment. Experience the joy of creating confectionary art without the complexity of baking, as this recipe invites creativity and warmth to your kitchen.
Why make this recipe
In a world where time often binds our pursuits, this enchanting dessert unfolds effortlessly with minimal effort and maximum delight. It is a celebration of seasonal peppermint, a tribute to cherished holiday gatherings or homebound evenings, and a soothing reminder to savor life’s small pleasures. With each jar, you craft not merely a dessert but an experience, capturing the essence of joy in layers, best enjoyed at your own pace.
How to make No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars
Creating your No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars becomes an intimate dance through aromas and textures, as you bring together simple ingredients to create something extraordinary:
Ingredients:
- 12 OREO cookies
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, brought to room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons peppermint extract (I used one and a half)
- 5 drops red food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 Tablespoons confectioners sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 Andes Peppermint Crunch candies (or crushed candy canes as a delightful substitute)
Directions:
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Crumb: Begin by transforming the OREO cookies into a crumbled wonder with a gentle pulse in a food processor, or achieve a rustic feel by placing them in a sealed bag and rolling with a rolling pin until they yield fine crumbs. Combine these crumbs with melted butter, stirring until they resemble moist sand. Divide this mixture evenly among your chosen jars, pressing it modestly into the bottom to form a foundation of chocolatey bliss.
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Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, invite the softened cream cheese to mingle with granulated sugar, blending until smooth and luxurious. As you add in the peppermint extract, your kitchen will fill with an invigorating aroma that speaks of winter’s embrace. Should you choose to add a flirt of color, first mix in those drops of red food coloring until a soft rosy hue graces the mixture.
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Whipped Topping: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with confectioners sugar and vanilla extract until peaks form, resembling the fluffiest of clouds. Gently fold this ethereal cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care to preserve the airy, light structure.
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Garnish: Layer this decadence into the jars, alternating between cheesecake filling and delicately crushed Andes candies, allowing their rich, minty flavor to punctuate each bite. Finish with a generous dollop of the remaining cheesecake mixture, topped artfully with remaining candy for an elegant finish.
How to serve No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars
Serve these jars chilled, bringing them forth like little treasures shared among friends or savored in solitude. Their gentle whisper of peppermint will uplift any gathering, and the individual servings make for easy sharing, inviting laughter and joy with each spoonful.
How to store No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars
These delightful jars can be covered tightly with lids or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Their flavor matures beautifully, offering you the gift of a delectable treat at your leisure.
Tips to make No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a velvety texture that blends seamlessly.
- Adjust the peppermint extract according to your taste; this versatility allows for everyone to enjoy their own minty embrace.
- For a more festive touch, consider incorporating layers of crushed candy canes or sprinkling with cocoa powder before serving.
Variations
- Swap out the peppermint for other extracts, such as vanilla or almond, to create a completely different flavor profile.
- Incorporate crushed berries or chocolate chips for added texture and a burst of unexpected flavor.
FAQs
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Can I make these jars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake jars can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Is there a non-dairy option?
Certainly! Use non-dairy cream cheese and coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a delightful alternative. -
What is the best way to crush the candy for garnish?
Place candies in a ziplock bag and gently pound them with a rolling pin or a heavy skillet to achieve the desired texture without too much effort.
As we delve into the art of baking, let us embrace the beauty and patience that unfolds, creating not just a treat for the palate but a feast for the soul. Like the perfect dessert, life is best savored in layers, each moment a delightful creation in itself.
No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Jars
Ingredients
Method
- Crush the OREO cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin in a sealed bag.
- Combine the crushed cookies with melted butter until it resembles moist sand.
- Divide the mixture evenly among the jars and press it into the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the peppermint extract and red food coloring, mixing until combined.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with confectioners sugar and vanilla extract until peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Layer the cheesecake filling and crushed Andes candies in the jars.
- Finish with a dollop of cheesecake mixture and top with remaining candy.