Mint cheesecake is a dessert that is commonly made by following a cheesecake recipe and flavoring it with mint extract. The type of crust that can be used and the inclusion of chocolate in the cheesecake itself are two examples of variations on this basic concept. The mint flavor is usually added with spearmint extract, but liqueurs like crème de menthe are also popular. Although some people prefer to top their mint cheesecake with whipped cream or chocolate ganache, it is often served plain.
Mint cheesecake, also known as grasshopper cheesecake, is a standard dessert made with mint flavor instead of the vanilla extract used in other types of cheesecake. Although different recipes may call for different steps, a cheesecake is typically made by combining cream cheese, butter, and sugar in a mixing bowl. The eggs, as well as some milk or heavy cream and flavoring, are then added to the mixture. This flavoring can be made with a variety of ingredients, including vanilla extract or melted chocolate, though mint extract is typically used in a mint cheesecake.
A mint cheesecake’s crust can be made in a variety of ways, but crushed graham crackers or cookies are frequently used. These are crushed or chopped into crumbs, then mixed with melted butter and pressed into the bottom of a pan to serve as a base for the cheesecake filling. Some recipes call for partially baking the crust before adding the cheesecake, but this is dependent on the steps required to finish the dessert. To complement the minty flavor of the dish, a chocolate crust is frequently used, which is typically made from crushed chocolate wafer cookies.
Mint cheesecake is commonly made with spearmint extract, though this depends on the type of mint flavor desired. Creme de menthe, for example, is a popular liquor that has a slightly different minty flavor than many extracts. After the mint cheesecake has been baked, usually in a water bath, it is allowed to cool completely before being served. The mint flavor of the filling pairs well with the chocolate crust in this dessert, which is frequently served on its own. Chocolate ganache and whipped cream, which can also be flavored with mint extract, can be served as additional toppings.