Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake Bites (Print-Friendly Version)
Indulge in these chocolate peppermint cheesecake bites, ideal for winter gatherings and Christmas dessert tables. Featuring holiday party desserts, peppermint chocolate cheesecake, and Christmas dessert ideas, this is one to keep handy.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Crust
01 -
1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
02 -
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
03 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
→ Filling
04 -
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 -
1 cup granulated sugar
06 -
1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
07 -
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
08 -
2 large eggs
09 -
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
→ Ganache and Topping
10 -
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
11 -
Crushed peppermint candy, for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 325°F.
02 -
Line two standard muffin pans with paper cupcake liners.
03 -
Combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl and mix until evenly moistened.
04 -
Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into each liner and press down firmly with a flat-bottom cup.
05 -
Set the prepared pans aside while assembling the filling.
06 -
Using a stand mixer, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until completely smooth and creamy.
07 -
Add peppermint extract, cocoa powder, kosher salt, and continue blending until just combined.
08 -
Add eggs one at a time, mixing until each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
09 -
Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the cheesecake mixture over each prepared crust.
10 -
Bake for 17 to 21 minutes, or until edges are set but centers jiggle slightly.
11 -
Allow cheesecakes to cool completely in the pans, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
12 -
Bring 1/3 cup heavy cream to a simmer. Pour over semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Allow to sit for 1 minute, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
13 -
Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons ganache atop each chilled cheesecake bite. Sprinkle each with crushed peppermint candy before serving.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For neat edges, use a damp offset spatula to release cheesecakes from liners after chilling.