Oreo & Chocolate Christmas Tree Cheesecake

This festive Oreo and chocolate cheesecake is a showstopper, perfect for holiday celebrations. It’s rich, creamy, and adorned with a delightful Christmas tree decoration for that extra holiday cheer!

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs (about 20 Oreos)
• ¼ cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream

For the Ganache Topping:

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup heavy cream

For Decoration:

• Whipped cream (for piping)
• Whole Oreos
• Chocolate shavings
• Red and green candy decorations (for the tree)
• Chocolate Christmas tree topper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Prepare the crust:
   Combine the Oreo cookie crumbs and melted butter, then press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. Make the cheesecake filling:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and sour cream, and continue to beat until well combined.
4. Bake the cheesecake:
   Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
5. Prepare the ganache:
   While the cheesecake is cooling, make the ganache topping. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until simmering, then pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
6. Add the ganache:
   Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake, spreading it evenly. Allow it to set in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
7. Decorate the cheesecake:
   Decorate the cheesecake with whipped cream swirls, whole Oreos, chocolate shavings, and festive red and green candies. Place a chocolate Christmas tree topper in the center for the final holiday touch!
8. Slice and serve:
   Slice and enjoy your festive Oreo & Chocolate Christmas Tree Cheesecake!

Tips for Serving Oreo & Chocolate Christmas Tree Cheesecake:

• Storage: Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Make it ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Personalize: Customize the decorations based on your holiday theme!

FAQs About Oreo & Chocolate Christmas Tree Cheesecake:

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
2. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
   The center should be slightly jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.
3. Can I freeze the cheesecake?
   Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
4. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
   You can use a regular pie dish, but it will be harder to remove the cheesecake for slicing.
5. How can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free Oreo cookies for the crust.

Nutritional Information (per slice):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fats: 24g

Delight your guests this holiday season with a showstopping Oreo & Chocolate Christmas Tree Cheesecake. Its festive appearance and rich flavors are sure to make it a favorite!