Winter Wonderland Cheesecake

Winter wonderland cheesecake with peppermint and candy cane pieces. Creamy holiday dessert made ahead with ease.

I chose to make this winter wonderland cheesecake because it brings a familiar holiday flavor into a dessert that feels calm and inviting. Peppermint always reminds me of slower winter evenings and shared moments at the table. This cheesecake fits right into those moments without feeling overdone.

What I enjoy most is how balanced it feels. The creaminess stays smooth and steady while the peppermint adds a gentle freshness. The crushed candy pieces give texture without overwhelming the filling.

When I served this to my family, it disappeared slice by slice with quiet smiles. It felt like a dessert meant to be enjoyed slowly, one forkful at a time, with conversation lingering a little longer.

Questions You May Have About This Recipe

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time
Yes. It sets well overnight and tastes better the next day.

Is the peppermint flavor strong
No. It stays light and balanced.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of candy
Crushed candy gives better texture and flavor.

Does this need a water bath
Yes. It helps the cheesecake bake evenly.

Should it be served chilled
Yes. Chill fully before slicing.

What You Need To Make Winter Wonderland Cheesecake

Crust
1 and 1 by 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1 by 3 cup granulated sugar

1 by 2 cup melted butter

Filling
3 cups cream cheese softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 eggs

1 cup sour cream

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 by 2 tsp peppermint extract

3 by 4 cup crushed candy canes

Topping
1 cup heavy cream

2 tbsp powdered sugar

Crushed candy canes for garnish

How To Make Winter Wonderland Cheesecake

Heat oven to 325 degrees.

Mix crust ingredients and press into pan.

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.

Add eggs one at a time.

Mix in sour cream vanilla and peppermint.

Fold in crushed candy canes.

Pour filling over crust.

Bake in water bath for 60 minutes.

Cool then chill at least 4 hours.

Whip cream and sugar for topping before serving.

Tips

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth texture.

Crush candy finely to avoid hard bites.

Chill overnight for best slicing.

Clean knife between cuts for neat slices.

Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Beautiful and creamy with just enough peppermint.” Carol H

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great holiday dessert that was not too sweet.” Denise L

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The texture turned out perfect.” Janet R

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Everyone asked for seconds.” Patricia W

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Will make this every winter.” Elaine S

Printable Recipe

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