As the days grow colder and the holidays approach, I find myself in the kitchen more often, craving the comforting flavors that signal the season. It wasn’t until last week, with the scent of peppermint filling the air, that I rediscovered my love for decadent desserts. That’s when I whipped up this stunning Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake.
Picture this: a rich, creamy filling infused with just the right amount of peppermint, contrasted with swirls of vibrant red, all nestled on a buttery, crumbly crust. Not only does this cheesecake taste like a winter wonderland, but it also serves as the centerpiece for any holiday gathering. It’s easy to make yet looks impressively festive—perfect for those of us who want to delight friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this cheesecake will inspire you to break away from fast-food routines and embrace the joy of homemade sweets. Let’s dive into the recipe and add a splash of holiday magic to your dessert table!
Why You'll Love This Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake
- This Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake is delightfully easy to prepare, making it a great choice for bakers of all skill levels.
- The flavor combination of creamy cheesecake and refreshing peppermint is absolutely irresistible and perfect for the holiday season.
- Its stunning visual appeal, with vibrant red swirls, ensures it will wow your guests and become the centerpiece of any gathering.
- Plus, this dessert can be made ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on the day of your celebration while still delivering a crowd-pleasing treat.
Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake Ingredients
A delightful cheesecake to brighten your holidays!
For the Crust
• Graham cracker crumbs – gives the cheesecake a buttery, crunchy base that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
• Unsalted butter – enhances the flavor of the crust; use melted for easy mixing.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream cheese – the star ingredient for velvety creaminess; ensure it’s softened for the smoothest texture.
• Granulated sugar – balances the flavors and adds sweetness to the cheesecake.
• Vanilla extract – adds depth and warmth; use pure extract for the best taste.
• Peppermint extract – infuses your cheesecake with a refreshing mint flavor; adjust to your preference!
• Sour cream – helps make the cheesecake rich and creamy; you can swap it with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
For the Swirls
• Red gel food coloring – creates beautiful swirls; gel is best for vibrant color without altering texture.
For Serving
• Whipped cream (optional) – a light topping that adds a luscious finish to your festive cheesecake!
By gathering these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake, ready to impress your friends and family!
How to Make Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for baking a beautifully set cheesecake.
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Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until well blended and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create a solid crust.
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Make the cheesecake mixture: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat 24 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar while mixing on low speed until completely combined.
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Add flavorings: Blend in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 cup of sour cream until well incorporated. Slowly mix in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, tasting as you go to ensure it’s to your liking.
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Divide and color the batter: Carefully divide the cheesecake mixture in half. Add red gel food coloring to one portion, mixing gently until you achieve the desired color.
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Create swirls: Alternate spooning dollops of the plain and red cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the batters together gently, ensuring a beautiful marbled effect.
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Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
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Cool and chill: After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for one hour. Once cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least four hours or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
Optional: Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your cheesecake with these fun and delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or gluten-free graham cracker alternatives for a gluten-free version without compromising taste.
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Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add ½ cup of melted chocolate or cocoa powder to one of the batter halves for a rich chocolatey contrast that brings warmth to the peppermint.
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Nutty Crust: Replace part of the graham cracker crust with finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans. This adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
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Mint Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate chocolate mint extract along with the peppermint extract for an extra fresh and chocolatey combination. It’s a mint lover’s dream!
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Vegan Option: Use a vegan cream cheese alternative and swap the eggs with a flax egg mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for a plant-based cheesecake.
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Berry Boost: Mix in fresh or frozen raspberries or cherries into the batter for a fruity note that adds a beautiful color contrast to the swirls.
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Add a Crunch: Top your cheesecake with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips before serving for an added textural surprise that shines through.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or ginger when mixing the cheesecake for a warm, invigorating spice that perfectly contrasts the cool peppermint.
With these variations, you can turn your Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake into your signature creation, bringing joy and excitement to your holiday dessert table!
Make Ahead Options
These Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cheesecake batter up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture. The graham cracker crust can also be made up to 3 days ahead; simply store it at room temperature in a sealed container. When you’re ready to finish, just pour the chilled batter into the prepared crust, create your stunning swirls, and bake as directed. Remember to cool in the oven before chilling to lock in that delicious flavor. This way, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert with minimal effort on the big day!
How to Store and Freeze Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake
Fridge: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will keep it fresh and ready to serve whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Enjoy your Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake for up to 2 months!
Thawing: To enjoy frozen cheesecake, transfer slices to the fridge and allow them to thaw overnight. This will maintain the creamy texture and delightful flavor.
Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake slightly warmed, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off but not make it hot.
What to Serve with Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this festive cheesecake with delightful accompaniments that enhance its holiday charm.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: Warm and creamy, hot chocolate complements the minty notes of the cheesecake while offering a cozy drink option for chilly evenings.
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Peppermint Bark: A crunchy and sweet partner that echoes the cheesecake’s peppermint flavor. It adds a fun texture and beautiful presentation to your dessert table.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a burst of color and tartness, cutting through the richness of the cheesecake for a fresh contrast.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle this luscious chocolate sauce over the cheesecake for an indulgent touch that enhances the peppermint theme and provides a decadent treat.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Their warm spices blend beautifully with the cheesecake, creating a festive flavor profile that embraces the holiday spirit.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the cheesecake offers a delightful temperature contrast and adds an extra layer of creaminess.
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Sparkling Cranberry Juice: For a festive beverage option, this sweet and tangy drink pairs perfectly, cleansing the palate while celebrating the holiday flavors.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light whipped cream on top of each slice adds a fluffy, rich finish—perfect for those who love a classic touch.
Enjoy mixing and matching these pairings to create a truly memorable holiday dessert experience!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a smooth cheesecake, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature before mixing.
- When preparing the crust, press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the pan to avoid a crumbly base.
- To achieve beautiful swirls in the Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake, use a gentle folding motion with a knife rather than vigorously mixing.
- Always bake the cheesecake until the edges are firm while the center remains slightly jiggly to ensure a creamy texture after chilling.
Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cream cheese for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! For the best results, select a full-fat block cream cheese. It’s important to avoid using spreadable cream cheese in a tub, as it contains extra air and moisture that can affect the texture of your cheesecake. Look for cream cheese that’s been brought to room temperature; this ensures a creamy, smooth filling without lumps.
How should I store my Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I often keep it on a cake stand with a cover to maintain freshness. If you want to save it for later, just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Can I freeze the Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the entire cheesecake well in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. For slices, pack them individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, it will remain tasty for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!
What if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Getting a smoothly baked cheesecake can be tricky, but no worries! If it cracks, it might be due to overbaking or rapid temperature changes. Make sure to turn off the oven and let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar. This gradual cooling helps reduce the chances of cracks. And remember, adding a topping like whipped cream can beautifully hide any imperfections!
Can my pets eat any of the ingredients in this cheesecake?
It’s best to keep this festive dessert away from your furry friends. Ingredients like cream cheese and sugar can be harmful to pets, and peppermint can be toxic to dogs. Always ensure what’s being shared with your pets is safe and appropriate for them.
How do I adjust the peppermint flavor in my cheesecake?
I recommend starting with the 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract as specified, but if you’re a peppermint lover, feel free to add a bit more—just do it gradually! Taste as you go; a little can go a long way. And for a holiday twist, consider adding crushed peppermint candies on top before serving for an extra refresh!
Red & White Swirl Peppermint Cheesecake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted unsalted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar while mixing on low speed.
- Blend in vanilla extract and sour cream. Slowly mix in peppermint extract to taste.
- Divide the cheesecake mixture in half. Add red gel food coloring to one half and mix gently.
- Alternate spooning dollops of both mixtures into the pan. Use a knife or skewer to swirl them together.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool for one hour. Then chill in the refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight.
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