Enjoy rich, decadent Peppermint Mocha Cheesecake Bars topped with light whipped cream. This recipe balances deep, comforting flavors with a fresh, bright finish.
Author:Mei Sprout
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:5 hours 5 minutes
Yield:18 bars
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for topping)
Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Mix graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar with an electric mixer until smooth.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract, cooled coffee, cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has minimal jiggle.
Turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour. Remove and cool completely on a wire rack. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
When ready to serve, prepare the whipped cream. Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract until stiff peaks form.
Cut the chilled cheesecake into bars. Top each bar generously with the whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings.
Notes
For the best coffee flavor, use a strong brew or espresso.
Chilling time is crucial for clean slicing. Be patient!
You can use dark chocolate shavings for a deeper mocha taste.