Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature is crucial for the cheesecake to bake evenly and set properly.
- Line an 8x8 or 9x9 baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This makes it easier to lift the cheesecake out of the pan once it’s set.
- Add the Oreo cookies into a food processor, and blend them until fine crumbs remain. This will form the base of your crust.
- Transfer the Oreo crumbs to a bowl, then add the melted butter. Stir to combine until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the Oreo mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Make sure it’s compact to create a solid crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This step ensures that the crust is firm and ready to hold the cheesecake filling.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer (or stand mixer) to beat the cream cheese until fluffy, about 1 minute. This incorporates air, making the filling lighter.
- Slowly add the granulated sugar, mixing on low and then medium-high until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Next, beat in the sour cream, mixing well, followed by the eggs one at a time. Make sure to stop and scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is combined.
- Add the mint extract and a few drops of gel food coloring, mixing just until combined. You want the color to be even but not overmixed.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, leveling the top with a spatula. This ensures an even bake.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly, and the sides appear set and puffy. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill overnight. This helps the flavors meld and the texture set.
- Before serving, prepare the topping. In a medium chilled bowl, beat together the powdered sugar and heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This is your delicious whipped cream topping.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into bars, and top with the whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, and chocolate shavings. Serve and enjoy your delicious Oreo Mint Cheesecake Bars!
Notes
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Serve them nice and chilled for the best texture, especially on warm days. Enjoy these bars with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint for a fresh touch. Feel free to add chocolate chips or chunks to the cheesecake mixture for extra indulgence!
