Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No oven required – Perfect for when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
• Festive and fun – The peppermint flavor and optional red swirls make them ideal for the holidays.
• Easy to make – Simple steps with minimal effort.
• Great for parties – Bite-sized and easy to serve.
• Make-ahead friendly – Prepare in advance and chill until ready to serve.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crust:

• 18 Oreo cookies, crushed (filling included)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
• Optional: A few drops of red food coloring for a festive swirl effect

Topping:

• Extra crushed Oreo cookies
• Crushed peppermint candies
• Whipped cream (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, mix the crushed Oreo cookies with the melted butter until combined.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined mini muffin pan or a silicone mold.
• Set aside in the refrigerator to chill.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
• Add the powdered sugar and peppermint extract, beating until creamy.
• Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
• If using food coloring, add a few drops and swirl it in for a festive touch.
• Fold in the crushed peppermint candies.

3. Assemble the Bites:

• Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts in the mini muffin pan.
• Smooth the tops and sprinkle with extra crushed Oreo cookies and peppermint candies.

4. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm.
• Remove from the muffin pan or mold.
• Top with whipped cream if desired and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 mini cheesecake bites
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling for extra richness.
• White Chocolate Peppermint: Replace crushed Oreos with crushed white chocolate cookies for a different twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies instead of regular Oreos.
• Extra Minty: Add an extra ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract for a stronger peppermint flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: No reheating is needed—just serve chilled!

FAQs

1. Can I make these cheesecake bites in advance?

Yes! These are perfect for making ahead since they need time to chill. Prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge.

2. Do I need a food processor to crush the Oreos?

No, you can crush them using a zip-top bag and a rolling pin if you don’t have a food processor.

3. Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?

Yes, you can substitute Cool Whip for the homemade whipped cream if you prefer.

4. How do I make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives.

5. Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini one?

Yes, but the serving size will be larger, and you may need to increase the chilling time.

6. What can I use instead of peppermint extract?

You can use vanilla extract, but it won’t have the same minty flavor.

7. How do I get the red swirl effect?

Gently swirl a few drops of red food coloring into the cheesecake mixture before spooning it over the crust.

8. Can I use flavored Oreos?

Absolutely! Peppermint or chocolate crème Oreos would be great choices.

9. Will the peppermint candies dissolve in the cheesecake?

No, they will stay slightly crunchy, adding a nice texture to the filling.

10. What’s the best way to remove them from the muffin pan?

Use a butter knife to gently loosen the edges, or use a silicone mold for easy removal.

Conclusion

No-Bake Oreo Peppermint Cheesecake Bites are a deliciously easy and festive dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering or just treating yourself, their creamy texture and refreshing peppermint taste make them a standout sweet treat. Try them today and enjoy a bite-sized piece of holiday magic!

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