If you are looking to wow your friends and family with a festive and scrumptious dessert, this Peppermint Cheesecake with Chocolate Swirl and Peppermint Ganache Recipe is the perfect choice. Combining the richness of creamy cheesecake, the bold touch of a chocolate swirl, and the refreshing burst of peppermint, this dessert is a dazzling centerpiece for any holiday table or special occasion. It’s a delightful blend of smooth textures, vibrant flavors, and eye-catching presentation that is as joyful to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image is split into two parts side by side. On the left side, there is a white bowl filled with dark brown chocolate pieces, cut into squares, resting on a red and white striped cloth on a white marbled surface. Behind the bowl, there are small festive decorations including a clear glass jar with red and white peppermint candies, miniature frosted Christmas trees, and a white bowl filled with holiday cookies, all arranged on wooden boards. On the right side, a woman's hand with white nail polish is holding the white bowl, now filled with melted smooth dark brown chocolate, and a wooden spatula with a white silicone tip dipped in the chocolate is resting inside the bowl. The same holiday decorations and cloth are visible in the background, creating a cozy and festive kitchen scene, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this cheesecake just right is all about balancing simple yet essential ingredients that each contribute something unique—whether that’s texture, flavor, or that peppermint holiday sparkle.

Oreo cookies (36, 406 grams): The beautifully crumbly base that adds a chocolatey crunch and structure to your crust.
Unsalted butter (5 tbsp, 70 grams, melted): Helps bind the crust while adding richness and moisture.
Chopped chocolate or chocolate chips (½ cup, 85 grams): For the luscious chocolate swirl inside the cheesecake.
Cream cheese (907 grams, softened): The creamy core of the cheesecake, smooth and tangy, giving it that classic velvety texture.
Granulated sugar (1⅓ cup, 266 grams): Sweetens the cheesecake perfectly without overpowering the peppermint.
Sour cream (½ cup, 120 grams): Adds a slight tang and lightness to the batter.
Vanilla extract (1 tbsp): Enhances all the flavors with warm, aromatic notes.
Peppermint extract (½ tsp for batter + ¼ tsp for ganache): Infuses that cool, minty spirit throughout the dessert.
Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor.
Eggs (4 large, divided): Provide structure and richness, keeping the cheesecake’s texture just right.
Cocoa powder (2 tbsp): Intensifies the chocolate swirl’s depth and color.
Espresso powder (¼ tsp, optional): Lifts and sharpens the chocolate flavor for those who want a little extra punch.
Crushed peppermint candies (¼ cup for batter + 2 tbsp for decoration): Adds delightful crunch and festive flair without overpowering the smooth cheesecake.
Chopped chocolate or chocolate chips (¾ cup, 127 grams): Used in the ganache for a rich, silky finish.
Heavy cream (½ cup, 120 ml): Essential for a velvety ganache that beautifully coats the cheesecake.
Glucose or corn syrup (5 grams, optional): Ensures the ganache is glossy and perfectly smooth.

How to Make Peppermint Cheesecake with Chocolate Swirl and Peppermint Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

The crust is the foundation, so getting it just right is key. Start by preheating your oven to 325ºF. Blitz the Oreos in a food processor until they’re a fine crumb, then mix in your melted butter until everything sticks together nicely. Press this mixture firmly into your springform pan, making sure to press some crumbs up the sides for stability and that classic cheesecake look. Bake for about 12 minutes, then let it cool completely so it sets firmly before adding your luscious filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

Once your crust is cooled and your pan’s sides are lightly greased, it’s time to create the creamy filling. Melt the chocolate for the swirl and set it aside to cool. Beat the cream cheese to a dreamy smoothness, add sugar, sour cream, extracts, salt, and then divide the batter in two. One bowl becomes your classic peppermint cheesecake, with crushed peppermint candies stirred in for texture, while the other melts into a luscious chocolate batter with cocoa powder, espresso powder, and that cooled melted chocolate for richness.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Combine

Add two eggs, one at a time, to each batter while mixing well in between additions to ensure a velvety, lump-free texture. Don’t forget to scrape the bowl to keep everything fully incorporated. This step guarantees that each swirl of cheesecake bakes up silky smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake

Pour alternating dollops of the peppermint and chocolate batters onto the Oreo crust to create a beautiful marbled swirl. Use a spatula or skewer to gently swirl the batters together — the visual impact here is stunning and sets this cheesecake apart. Finish off by smoothing the top for an even bake.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake in a Water Bath

Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger roasting pan with hot water to form a gentle water bath. This trick prevents cracking and keeps your cheesecake moist. Bake for 65 to 75 minutes until the center jiggles slightly and the edges set. Then turn off the oven and let it rest inside for another hour to slow cool gently before chilling it in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 6: Prepare the Peppermint Ganache

Heat heavy cream (and corn syrup if using) until hot, pour over the chopped chocolate, and let it sit before whisking until glossy and smooth. Stir in peppermint extract for that refreshing finish. Chill until thickened to a spreadable consistency. This luscious ganache will give your cheesecake a shiny, indulgent topping packed with minty goodness.

Step 7: Decorate and Finish

Once your cheesecake is chilled and the ganache is at the perfect spreadable stage, spoon it generously over the surface. Smooth it out with an offset spatula and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies for that final festive crunch and sparkle. The combination of smooth ganache and crunchy peppermint pieces makes every bite unforgettable.

How to Serve Peppermint Cheesecake with Chocolate Swirl and Peppermint Ganache Recipe

The image shows a round three-layer cake on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is thick and dark brown with a rough textured surface. The middle layer is creamy and light yellow, smooth and slightly raised above the bottom. The top layer is shiny, dark brown chocolate with a spiral swirl pattern and small red and white crushed candy pieces sprinkled evenly on top. The background has small white and red decorative Christmas trees, candy canes, and small jars with candy, creating a festive look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Besides the crushed peppermint candies, consider fresh mint leaves or small chocolate curls for an elegant touch. These add a pop of color and texture that complement the peppermint and chocolate beautifully, creating a visually stunning dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

A lightly brewed cup of coffee or hot cocoa pairs like a dream with this cheesecake. For something extra festive, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce can beautifully balance the richness and bring a fresh note to every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on decorative plates with a small peppermint stick as a stirrer if offering coffee or hot chocolate. You can also present mini versions in jars for parties, layering with whipped cream and crushed candies for an interactive dessert. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and playful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your peppermint cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain its silky texture and fresh flavors. Wrapped well, it will stay delicious for up to 5 days—perfect if you want to bake ahead for a holiday party or special event.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Freezing is a great way to spread out your holiday baking and still impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort.

Reheating

Because this is a cheesecake, reheating is generally not recommended as it changes the texture. Instead, allow slices to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes if they seem a bit stiff from the fridge. This softens the ganache and enhances the flavors perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While Oreos provide that perfect chocolatey crunch, you can substitute with graham crackers, chocolate wafers, or even ginger snaps for a different flavor twist. Just be sure to adjust the butter slightly if your crumbs are drier or more absorbent.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

In a pinch, you can use a small amount of peppermint oil or even crushed peppermint candies to infuse flavor, but peppermint extract is preferred for its concentrated, clean minty taste that blends beautifully into the batter and ganache.

How do I avoid cracks in my cheesecake?

The water bath is your best friend here. Wrapping the pan in foil and baking in water keeps the temperature even and prevents cracks. Also, don’t overmix your batter and avoid opening the oven frequently during baking.

Can I make this cheesecake vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on cream cheese and chocolate, so substitutions are tricky but possible with specialized vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate. Keep in mind, texture and flavor might vary slightly from the original.

How long does the peppermint ganache take to set?

Ganache usually sets in about 1 to 2 hours in the refrigerator. You can speed this up by stirring every 5-10 minutes as it cools to achieve the perfect spreadable consistency sooner.

Final Thoughts

You really cannot go wrong making the Peppermint Cheesecake with Chocolate Swirl and Peppermint Ganache Recipe. It’s a dessert that brings festive joy, indulgent flavors, and an impressive look to your table every single time. Whether you’re surprising guests or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake will quickly become a cherished favorite. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and dive into this deliciously sweet peppermint adventure.