1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for mixing into the filling)
For the Topping:
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (for drizzling)
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Oreo Crust:
Crush the Oreos: Place the Oreos in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. If you don’t have a food processor, place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Mix with Butter: In a bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined.
Fill the Cups: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the Oreo mixture into each cup of a muffin tin (preferably lined with paper liners). Press the crumbs down with a spoon to create an even crust layer.
Chill the Crusts: Place the muffin tin in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set the crust while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Mint Cheesecake Filling:
Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add the Sugar and Extracts: Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the chilled heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the air in the whipped cream.
Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): If desired, fold in mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor in the cheesecake filling.
Assemble the Cheesecakes:
Spoon the Filling: Evenly distribute the mint cheesecake filling over the prepared Oreo crusts in the muffin tin. Use a spoon or small offset spatula to smooth the tops.
Chill the Cheesecakes: Refrigerate the mini cheesecakes for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
Finish the Cheesecakes:
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and glossy.
Drizzle the Chocolate: Once the cheesecakes are set, drizzle the melted chocolate over the tops of each mini cheesecake.
Garnish with Mint: If desired, garnish each cheesecake with a fresh mint leaf for a pop of color and added flavor.