Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes

Introduction

Bright, festive, and perfectly portioned these Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes bring chocolate and cool mint together in a bite-sized package. They come together quickly with a crunchy chocolate cookie base and a creamy minty filling studded with chopped Andes pieces. Topped with a silky chocolate ganache, they’re showstoppers for parties or an easy weeknight treat. If you want a peppermint-forward option for holiday hosting, try this peppermint cheesecakes recipe for another sweet idea.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

These mini cheesecakes are a wonderful choice because they combine familiar flavors into a portable dessert that looks like it took more work than it actually did. The cookie crust keeps each bite tidy while the cream cheese filling stays rich but light thanks to sour cream. Chopped Andes add pockets of minty brightness and a bit of texture in every mouthful. You can easily scale the recipe up for a crowd or bake a few for an elegant after-dinner treat. For chocolate-forward fans who want a deeper cocoa hit try some chocolate peppermint cheesecake variations that riff on the same flavor family. Best of all these hold up well in the fridge making them practical and pretty.

Flavor and Texture

The first impression is cool mint followed by rich cream cheese and a gentle chocolate echo from the crust. Texture plays an important role here the cookie base offers a satisfying crunch while the filling is silky and smooth. Small chunks of Andes provide occasional minty chips that contrast the ganache’s glossy thickness. The ganache itself melts on the tongue and brings everything together with a shiny finish. Overall these are refreshing without being overly sweet making them irresistible after a heavy meal.

Ingredients

• 8 chocolate cookies (such as Oreo)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 4 oz Andes mints, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a small bowl, crush the chocolate cookies and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of each liner to form a crust.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, beating until creamy. Mix in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in sour cream and chopped Andes mints.
5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the chocolate cookie crusts.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until set. Remove from oven and let cool.
7. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream until hot, then pour over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
8. Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the cooled cheesecakes.
9. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips for Best Results

Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a silky filling free of lumps. Press the crust firmly so it holds together when serving and consider letting the tins rest on the counter a few minutes after baking to avoid cracks. Chop the Andes fairly small so the pieces distribute evenly without overpowering a bite. If your ganache seems thick warm it briefly over a double boiler and stir to loosen. For cleaner edges run a warm knife around each liner before peeling it away.

Storage and Make Ahead

These mini cheesecakes keep well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. You can bake and chill them a day ahead then add ganache the morning you serve for the freshest shine. For longer storage freeze them without ganache for up to one month then thaw overnight in the fridge and add ganache before serving. Individually portioned liners make transport easy for potlucks or gifts.

Final Thought

Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes are an elegant yet effortless dessert that balances mint and chocolate in every bite. They’re perfect for holiday trays classroom parties or a cozy night in. With a few simple steps you’ll have something that looks bakery-made and disappears fast.

Conclusion

For the original inspiration and full visual guide visit the Small Town Woman Andes Mint Mini Cheesecakes post which pairs beautifully with the tips above.

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