Name: Candy Cane Kiss Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 5 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 16 Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses, crushed; Red gel food coloring (for tinting 1 cup cheesecake batter); 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed; Additional crushed Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses for garnish

Introduction

This Candy Cane Kiss Cheesecake is the perfect festive dessert to brighten up your holiday celebrations. Creamy cheesecake combined with minty Candy Cane Kisses and a crunchy graham cracker crust makes for an irresistible treat. It’s easy to make, stunning to serve, and sure to impress your guests.

A slice of layered cheesecake with a crumbly golden crust at the bottom, topped by a thick creamy white layer, followed by a swirled pink and red layer that looks soft and smooth. On top of the slice is a swirl of white whipped cream sprinkled with white and red pieces, with a red and white striped candy kiss placed at the center of the cream. Another matching candy kiss is placed on the white plate next to the slice. The plate has a delicate raised pattern around the edge, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
16 Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses, crushed

For the Topping:

1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
Additional crushed Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of an 8-inch springform pan.

Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, then beat until fully combined.

Step 3: Gently fold in the crushed Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses, being careful not to break them down too much.

Step 4: Remove 1 cup of the cheesecake batter and tint it red with red gel coloring. Pour the full cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust, then swirl in the red portion gently to create a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake the cheesecake at 350°F for 50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour.

Step 6: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.

Step 7: Before serving, spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Garnish with additional crushed Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses for a festive finish.

Step 8: Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the delicious blend of creamy cheesecake and minty candy cane flavors!

Tips & Variations

Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to prevent crumbling when slicing.

Beat the cream cheese thoroughly until smooth to ensure a creamy, lump-free filling.

Fold in crushed Candy Cane Kisses gently to keep texture and distribution uniform.

Bake until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly to avoid cracking; cool gradually in the oven with the door open.

Chill the cheesecake thoroughly to let flavors meld and texture set properly.

Apply Cool Whip topping just before serving to maintain freshness and fluffiness.

For more color contrast, experiment with different gel coloring swirls or peppermint extract for extra mint flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a regular pan instead of a springform pan?

A springform pan is best for cheesecakes since it allows easy removal without damaging the sides. If using a regular pan, line it well with parchment paper and carefully invert the cheesecake after chilling.

Can I substitute the Candy Cane Kisses with other candies?

Yes, you can substitute with other peppermint candies or even crushed peppermint bark to maintain the minty flavor and festive look. Just be mindful of candy size and texture to preserve the cheesecake’s creaminess.