- Crushed candy canes or additional chocolate shavings (for presentation)
Use these ingredients to create a delicious and SEO-friendly chocolate peppermint cheesecake that ranks well in search results. Remember to include relevant keywords for better visibility!
Cheesecakes are always a crowd-pleaser, especially when you add a unique flavor twist like chocolate and peppermint! Follow this detailed recipe to make a creamy and rich chocolate peppermint cheesecake that will impress your guests.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (500g)
- 1/4 cup sugar (60g)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (113g)
- 4 packages cream cheese, softened (900g)
- 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar (375g)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso (120ml)
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 eggs, room temperature
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
#### Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for about 8-10 minutes. Once done, allow it to cool completely.
2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:**
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy with an electric mixer.
- Add granulated sugar gradually, mixing well after each addition.
- Beat in vanilla extract and peppermint extract thoroughly.
- Brew coffee according to package instructions. Mix in the brewed coffee and instant coffee powder into the mixture.
3. **Add Eggs:**
- With the mixer on low speed, slowly add eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are well combined. The filling should be smooth without lumps.
4. **Assemble and Bake:**
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any overflow during baking.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 60-70 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Use an oven thermometer for precise temperature readings.
5. **Cool and Set:**
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.
6. **Garnish and Serve:**
- Just before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings or crushed peppermint candies for added flavor.
- Slice carefully using a hot knife to make clean cuts.
### Tips:
- For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
- Use high-quality chocolate shavings or peppermint candies for enhanced taste and presentation.
- This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance; store it covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake, perfect for any festive occasion! Don't forget to share your creations on social media using #ChocolatePeppermintCheesecake!
This recipe not only provides a delicious treat but also incorporates SEO-friendly keywords such as "peppermint cheesecake," "homemade cheesecake," and "chocolate cheesecake" which can help increase visibility for your blog or website.