Mint Cheesecake Bars

There’s something undeniably special about a slice of Mint Cheesecake Bars. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats; the kitchen was filled with a refreshing minty aroma that instantly made my mouth water. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I wanted to whip up something cool and creamy to share at a family gathering. As I combined the creamy cream cheese with the rich Oreo crust, I could hardly wait to see the smiles on my loved ones’ faces when they took that first bite. These Mint Cheesecake Bars quickly became a favorite, and now, I can’t imagine a get-together without them. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual barbecue or a festive celebration.

What You’ll Need for Mint Cheesecake Bars

When it comes to making Mint Cheesecake Bars, the ingredients are simple yet come together beautifully. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the delightful flavors and textures of this treat. The key players include the rich cream cheese, which provides that luscious filling, and the Oreos that form the cookie crust. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this delicious dessert to life.

• 14 Oreos, regular – These cookies create the base of your crust, offering a rich chocolate flavor that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – The melted butter binds the Oreo crumbs together, ensuring a sturdy crust that holds its shape.
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened – This is the star of your filling, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor that makes this dessert irresistible.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling, balancing the flavors and ensuring a delightful treat.
• 4 Tablespoons sour cream – Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess to the filling, enhancing its texture.
• 4 Tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps to stabilize the filling, creating the perfect consistency once baked.
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Provides warmth and depth to the cheesecake filling.
• ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract – Infuses a refreshing minty flavor that really makes these bars shine!
• 2 large eggs – Essential for setting the structure of the cheesecake filling when baked.
• green food coloring, optional – Adds a fun pop of color, making your dessert visually appealing.

Putting Together Mint Cheesecake Bars

Making Mint Cheesecake Bars is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with sweet aromas. Let’s get started on creating this delicious dessert step by step. Follow along!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This temperature is perfect for baking your cheesecake bars evenly without overcooking them.

2. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to grease it lightly. This will help your cheesecake bars come out easily once they are baked.

3. To make the crust, place the Oreos in a food processor and blend until they are fine crumbs. The texture should be similar to sand. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and delicious crust.

4. Add the melted butter to the Oreo crumbs and blend until the mixture comes together. It should hold together when pressed. This is what gives your crust that perfect firmness.

5. Press the Oreo crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to ensure it’s even and compact.

6. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This step helps set the crust and enhances the flavor.

7. While the crust is baking, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer for about 30 seconds until creamy. It’s important to start with softened cream cheese to achieve a smooth consistency.

8. Add in the granulated sugar and mix well until it’s fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy without any lumps.

9. Add the sour cream, flour, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix until well combined. The flavors should meld beautifully, creating a rich filling.

10. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to keep the filling light and fluffy.

11. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a few drops of green food coloring to achieve a vibrant hue. Mix until evenly colored.

12. Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan against the counter gently to release any trapped air bubbles.

13. Bake the cheesecake bars for 33 to 35 minutes until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Don’t overbake, or they may become dry!

14. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to develop.

15. Once chilled, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful taste of your homemade Mint Cheesecake Bars!

Recipe Variations about Mint Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking to switch things up with your Mint Cheesecake Bars, here are some fun variations you can try. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these tips will help you customize your dessert!

• Storage: These cheesecake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They taste even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together.
• Freezing: Yes! You can freeze these bars for up to two months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Flavor Variations: Try using different flavored extracts like almond or orange for a unique twist on the classic mint flavor.
• Crust Options: Substitute Graham crackers for the Oreo crust for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cookies!
• Toppings: Add whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or crushed mint candies on top for extra flair when serving.

Side Dish Ideas for Mint Cheesecake Bars

When serving Mint Cheesecake Bars, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a pop of color and tartness that complements the creamy cheesecake.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream pairs beautifully and adds an extra decadent touch to your dessert.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your bars creates an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.
• Tea or Coffee: Offer a warm beverage like herbal tea or a rich coffee to balance the sweetness of the cheesecake.
• Seasonal Fruits: Consider serving with seasonal fruits such as peaches or cherries for a refreshing bite alongside your cheesecake.
• Occasions: These bars are perfect for gatherings, birthday celebrations, or holiday parties. Their vibrant color makes them an attractive centerpiece!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Mint Cheesecake Bars are truly a delightful dessert that combines rich and creamy textures with a refreshing mint flavor. They are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to try making these bars today; your loved ones will be asking for seconds and thirds! They are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Mint Cheesecake Bars

The ultimate dessert craving has arrived! These Mint Cheesecake Bars are creamy, rich, and bursting with refreshing mint flavor. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll leave everyone asking for the recipe. Try making them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 33 minutes mins

Total Time 48 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 9 squares

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Blender
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 14 pieces Oreos regular
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 Tablespoons sour cream
• 4 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 large eggs
• green food coloring optional green food coloring

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, greasing it lightly.
• Place the Oreos in a food processor and blend until fine crumbs.
• Add the melted butter to the Oreo crumbs and blend until combined.
• Press the Oreo crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer for 30 seconds.
• Add the granulated sugar and mix well.
• Add the sour cream, flour, and both extracts. Mix until combined.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
• Add a few drops of green food coloring if desired.
• Pour the filling over the baked crust and tap the pan to release air bubbles.
• Bake for 33 to 35 minutes.
• Remove from the oven and cool completely in the pan.
• Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
• Slice and serve the Mint Cheesecake Bars.

Notes

• Storage: These cheesecake bars can be stored for up to five days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to two months.
• Flavor Variations: Try different flavored extracts for a unique twist.
• Crust Options: Substitute Graham crackers for a different flavor.
• Toppings: Add whipped cream or chocolate drizzle on top.

Keyword easy dessert recipe, Mint Cheesecake Bars, Mint Dessert, no bake cheesecake