Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake (Printable Version)

Creamy cheesecake with chocolate and peppermint on an Oreo crust, topped with chocolate ganache. #chocolate #cheesecake #peppermint #dessert #holiday

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 24 whole Oreo cookies, filling included
02 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Filling

03 - 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
04 - 24 ounces full-fat cream cheese, fully softened to room temperature
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
07 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
08 - 4 large eggs, at room temperature
09 - 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
10 - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

→ Topping

11 - 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
12 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
13 - Crushed candy canes, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Finely crush the Oreo cookies with filling. Combine with melted unsalted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Set aside.
02 - Melt semisweet chocolate and allow it to cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in unsweetened cocoa powder and mix until incorporated. Blend in eggs and egg yolk, one at a time, mixing gently to avoid overbeating. Mix in the melted chocolate, peppermint extract, and heavy cream, ensuring a uniform batter. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
03 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Position the pan on the middle rack and bake for approximately 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight.
04 - Combine semisweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a heatproof bowl. Heat in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring frequently until the chocolate is fully melted and glossy. Allow to cool slightly before pouring evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
05 - Chill the assembled cheesecake with chocolate topping until set. Just before serving, generously sprinkle the surface with crushed candy canes for a festive finish.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure all ingredients reach room temperature for optimal mixing and to achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.