Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake: The Ultimate No-Bake Dessert

There’s something magical about the moment you slice into a perfectly chilled Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake and reveal those beautiful layers of minty, chocolatey goodness. As a lifelong dessert enthusiast, I’ve made countless cheesecakes, but this Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake holds a special place in my heart (and taste buds!).

Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, looking for a showstopping dessert that requires zero baking skills, or simply craving the nostalgic combination of peppermint and chocolate, this Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake ticks all the boxes. The refreshing mint flavor balanced with rich cream cheese and the signature crunch of peppermint chocolate creates a dessert experience that’s simply irresistible.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. Unlike traditional cheesecakes that require water baths and nervous oven-watching, this no-bake Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake comes together in just minutes of active preparation, then lets the refrigerator do all the hard work.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake

• ✅ No-bake Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake means no oven required – perfect for hot days or when your oven is busy with other dishes
• ✅ The classic Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake flavor combinations bring nostalgic minty-chocolate delight with every bite
• ✅ Easy Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake for holiday gatherings – make it a day ahead for stress-free entertaining
• ✅ Customizable Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake with chocolate ganache option for chocolate lovers
• ✅ The buttery, crunchy biscuit base provides the perfect foundation for the creamy Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake filling

Ingredients for Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake

For the Base

• 170g Arnott’s Nice biscuits, finely crushed (or graham crackers for a US alternative)
• 85g butter, melted

For the Filling

• 250g cream cheese, softened at room temperature
• 395g condensed milk (one standard can)
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp gelatine powder
• 1 tbsp hot water
• 1 Nestle Peppermint Crisp chocolate bar, grated (plus extra for topping)
• 2 drops peppermint essence (adjust to taste)

Optional Toppings

• Whipped cream for Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake topped with whipped cream
• Additional grated Peppermint Crisp chocolate
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

For a gluten-free Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake, simply substitute the Nice biscuits with your favorite gluten-free cookies or graham crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

How to Make Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake – Step by Step

Preparing the Base

1. Line a 20cm (8-inch) springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Place the Nice biscuits in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed biscuits and melted butter, mixing until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the base of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to compact it.
5. Refrigerate the base while you prepare the filling.

Creating the Creamy Filling

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatine over the hot water and stir until completely dissolved. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the condensed milk while continuing to beat, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps.
4. Add the lemon juice and peppermint essence, mixing well.
5. Pour in the dissolved gelatine mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
6. Gently fold in most of the grated Peppermint Crisp chocolate, reserving some for decoration.

Assembling Your Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the prepared biscuit base, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Sprinkle the reserved grated Peppermint Crisp over the top.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the cheesecake is completely set.
4. Once set, carefully remove from the springform pan and transfer to a serving plate.

Pro Tips for Making the Best recipe

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps in your Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake.
• Dissolving gelatine: To avoid gelatine clumps in your Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake, make sure the gelatine is completely dissolved before adding to the mixture.
• Chilling time: While 4 hours is the minimum, for the best homemade Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake texture, chill overnight.
• Flavor variations: For a more intense mint flavor, add an extra drop of peppermint essence, but be careful – a little goes a long way!
• Chocolate ganache option: Want to make a decadent Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake with chocolate ganache? Simply heat 100ml of cream until just simmering, pour over 100g of dark chocolate pieces, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Cool slightly before pouring over your set cheesecake.

Best Ways to Serve recipe

For festive Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake serving ideas, consider these options:

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and mint leaves for a classic presentation
• Drizzle with melted chocolate just before serving
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert
• Serve with hot coffee or tea to balance the sweetness
• For special occasions, decorate with chocolate curls and edible gold dust

This Peppermint Crisp Cheesecake pairs beautifully with after-dinner coffee or a sweet dessert wine. For family gatherings, consider cutting into smaller slices as it’s quite rich and satisfying.

Nutritional Information for recipe

Per serving (based on 10 slices):

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 5g

For a low-calorie recipe alternative, consider using light cream cheese and a sugar-free sweetener instead of condensed milk (though this will require adjusting other ingredients).

Storage & Leftovers

Your recipe will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. The texture may actually improve after the first day as the flavors have more time to meld.

Want to prepare this dessert further in advance? You can freeze your recipe for up to 2 months. Simply wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake (without toppings) tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Peppermint recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake actually benefits from being made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to develop fully. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for entertaining.

Can I use a different chocolate in recipe?

While Peppermint Crisp gives this cheesecake its signature flavor and texture, you can substitute with Aero Mint, After Eight chocolates, or even regular chocolate with extra peppermint essence if Peppermint Crisp is unavailable.

How do I know when my recipe is properly set?

When gently touched, the surface should be firm with a slight jiggle in the center. If it seems too soft after 4 hours, allow it to chill for longer.

Can I make a recipe without gelatine?

Yes, you can substitute the gelatine with 2 tablespoons of agar-agar powder (vegetarian alternative) or simply omit it for a softer set cheesecake that will need to be kept refrigerated until serving.

Conclusion

This recipe brings together the perfect combination of a crunchy biscuit base, creamy cheesecake filling, and the distinctive minty crunch of Peppermint Crisp chocolate. The no-bake preparation means it’s accessible to bakers of all skill levels, while the impressive results will have everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert recipe collection. The refreshing mint flavor makes it perfect year-round, though it’s especially welcome during the holiday season or summer months when a cool, no-bake dessert is just what you need.

Have you tried making this recipe? Share your experience or flavor variations in the comments below! And don’t forget to save this recipe for your next gathering – it’s guaranteed to impress.

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