If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly balances rich, creamy cheesecake with the refreshing zing of mint and the classic crunch of Oreos, look no further than these Oreo Mint Cheesecake Bars. This treat is a crowd-pleaser, combining a chocolate cookie crust with a smooth mint-infused cheesecake layer, all topped with whipped cream, melted chocolate, and a sprinkle of crushed Oreos. Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are irresistibly good and surprisingly easy to make.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Many cooks adore these bars because they marry two beloved flavors—chocolate and mint—in a creamy, indulgent cheesecake form that’s easy to slice and serve. The Oreo crust adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor, while the peppermint extract gives the cheesecake a bright and refreshing lift that isn’t overpowering. Plus, the no-fuss recipe means you don’t have to be a baking expert to nail it. From the smooth texture to the festive look, these bars always get compliments and requests for seconds.
What You’ll Need
- 1 package Oreo cookies, crushed – for the perfect cookie crust and topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – to bind the crust
- 2 packages cream cheese, softened – the creamy base of the cheesecake
- 1 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness
- 2 large eggs – to set the cheesecake
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for warm, subtle flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract – the key to that cool minty taste
- 1 cup whipped cream – folded in to lighten the texture
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips, melted – drizzled on top for extra chocolate goodness
- Additional crushed Oreo cookies for topping – adds crunch and visual appeal
Equipment at a Glance
- 9×9-inch baking pan: Perfect size for bars and easy slicing.
- Mixing bowls: Separate bowls for crust and filling prep.
- Electric mixer or stand mixer: To beat the cream cheese filling until silky smooth.
- Spatula: For folding whipped cream gently into the batter.
- Food processor or plastic bag and rolling pin: To crush Oreo cookies finely.
- Microwave-safe bowl: To melt the chocolate chips for drizzling.
Step-by-Step: Oreo Mint Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust
Start by crushing the entire package of Oreo cookies until they are fine crumbs. You can do this in a food processor or place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin. Pour the crushed Oreos into a mixing bowl and add the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your 9×9-inch baking pan to form the crust. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until combined.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Cream
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This step lightens the texture of the cheesecake, giving it a luscious, airy feel without losing richness.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared Oreo crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set. Before serving, drizzle the melted chocolate chips over the top and sprinkle with additional crushed Oreo cookies for extra texture and flavor.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
- Replace Oreo cookies with a keto-friendly chocolate cookie crumb substitute made from almond flour and cocoa powder.
- Swap granulated sugar for a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Use sugar-free chocolate chips for the drizzle.
- Ensure the whipped cream is unsweetened or sweetened with a keto-friendly sweetener.
Method to the Madness
The secret to these Oreo Mint Cheesecake Bars lies in the layering technique and the balance of flavors. By creating a sturdy, chocolaty base with crushed Oreos and butter, you get a crunchy contrast to the smooth mint cheesecake filling. The peppermint extract is key; just a half teaspoon adds a refreshing burst without overpowering the chocolate notes. Folding whipped cream into the batter lightens the dense cream cheese, resulting in bars that are creamy yet fluffy. Finally, the chocolate drizzle and Oreo topping add a polished look and an extra layer of indulgence that makes these bars stand out.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Oreo Mint Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid leaving these bars at room temperature for extended periods, as the cream cheese filling can soften too much and lose its texture.
Handy Q&A
Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of peppermint extract?
Yes! While peppermint extract gives the bars their signature minty flavor, you can use vanilla extract alone if you prefer a classic cheesecake taste. Alternatively, you could experiment with other extracts like almond or orange for a unique twist.
Do I have to use whipped cream in the filling?
Whipping cream folded into the filling helps create a lighter texture, but if you want a denser cheesecake bar, you can omit it. Just be aware the bars will be richer and more traditional in texture.
How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
To minimize cracks, avoid overbaking and ensure the oven temperature is accurate. Baking at a lower temperature and allowing the bars to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar can also help. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients and mixing gently reduces the risk of cracks.
Can I make these bars ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! These bars actually taste better after chilling overnight. Prepare them a day in advance, refrigerate, and add the final chocolate drizzle and Oreo topping just before serving for the freshest look and flavor.
Try These Next
- Midnight Mint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies – A perfect companion for mint lovers craving more chocolaty goodness.
- Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bar Cookies – If you want to explore fruity cheesecake bars with a bright twist.
Before You Go
These Oreo Mint Cheesecake Bars are an absolute must-try if you love the combination of chocolate and mint in a creamy, handheld dessert form. The ease of prep, along with their stunning flavor and texture, makes them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Keep your pantry stocked with these ingredients, and you’ll have a luscious dessert ready to impress at a moment’s notice. Happy baking!
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Oreo Mint Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
- 1 package Oreo cookies crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 packages cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips melted
- Additional crushed Oreo cookies for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust
- Start by crushing the entire package of Oreo cookies until they are fine crumbs. You can do this in a food processor or place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin. Pour the crushed Oreos into a mixing bowl and add the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your 9x9-inch baking pan to form the crust. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until combined.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Cream
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This step lightens the texture of the cheesecake, giving it a luscious, airy feel without losing richness.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the prepared Oreo crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set. Before serving, drizzle the melted chocolate chips over the top and sprinkle with additional crushed Oreo cookies for extra texture and flavor.
Equipment
- 9x9-inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
- Spatula
- Food processor or plastic bag and rolling pin
- Microwave-safe bowl
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for freshness.
- Freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- For a lighter texture, fold whipped cream into the filling; omit for a denser cheesecake.
- Use peppermint extract for classic mint flavor or substitute with vanilla or other extracts for variation.
- To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking and allow bars to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
