Creamy, chocolatey, and infused with that unmistakable minty freshness, this Thin Mint Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for lovers of the iconic cookie. Built on a crunchy Thin Mint crust, filled with velvety mint chocolate cheesecake, and topped with a glossy ganache and crumbled cookies, this showstopper is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of Girl Scout cookies or mint chocolate combos, this cheesecake is for you. It’s decadent without being overly sweet, with a balanced minty flavor that’s both refreshing and rich. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, birthday, or holiday event, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Pure Comfort
There’s something nostalgic and cozy about the flavor of Thin Mints. This cheesecake brings all of that comforting joy in a more sophisticated, luxurious dessert format. One bite and you’re wrapped in that perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, cool and rich.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups Thin Mint cookies, finely crushed (about 1 sleeve)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
- Green food coloring (optional)
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Garnish
- Crushed Thin Mint cookies
- Whipped cream (optional)
What You Need
- 9-inch springform pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
Time to Cook
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 55 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2 hours + overnight chilling
- Total Time: About 10 hours
Steps to Make It
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the crushed Thin Mints with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until combined. Mix in sour cream, peppermint extract, vanilla, and heavy cream. Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in the melted chocolate. If desired, add green food coloring for a minty hue.
3. Assemble and Bake
Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap gently to remove air bubbles. Bake at 325°F for 50–55 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door; let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
4. Chill
Transfer cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
5. Make the Ganache
Heat cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly before pouring over chilled cheesecake.
6. Garnish
Sprinkle crushed Thin Mints over the ganache. Add dollops of whipped cream if you’d like.
Make It Perfect
For a smooth, lump-free filling, ensure all ingredients—especially cream cheese and eggs—are at room temperature before mixing. Don’t rush the chilling time; it helps the flavors develop and the texture set beautifully.
Mix It Up
You can try using Andes mints or mint Oreos for a slightly different twist. Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture, or make mini cheesecakes using muffin tins for portion control and a fun party presentation.
Perfect Partners
Pair this cheesecake with a hot cup of coffee, a mint mocha, or a glass of cold milk. For a more grown-up pairing, try a dark stout or a sweet dessert wine.
Busy Day Hero
Make this cheesecake up to 2 days in advance—just keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for entertaining!
Work Ahead
Both the crust and the ganache can be made a day early. Store the crust covered at room temp, and refrigerate the ganache. Reheat it gently before using.
Save Some For Later
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Everyone’s Happy
This dessert hits the sweet spot for everyone—from mint lovers to chocoholics. Plus, the eye-catching ganache and cookie topping make it a stunner on any dessert table.
Good For You Too
It’s indulgent, yes—but you’re in control of the ingredients. Use reduced-fat cream cheese if you prefer, or experiment with sugar substitutes for a lighter version.
Easy Clean Up
Line your springform pan with parchment to avoid sticking. Wipe your knife between cuts for clean slices, and you’ll breeze through cleanup.
Switch It Up
Make a white chocolate version by replacing the semi-sweet chocolate in the filling and ganache. Or skip the ganache altogether and top with a drizzle of mint syrup or chocolate sauce.
Simply Perfect
The creamy minty filling, the chocolate crust, and that silky ganache layer make this dessert a pure celebration of flavor and texture. It’s elegant enough for a celebration, easy enough for everyday indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of mint cookie?
Yes, mint Oreos or store-brand mint cookies work well too.
Do I have to use food coloring?
Nope! It’s purely for visual appeal. The flavor remains unchanged without it.
Can I freeze the whole cheesecake?
Absolutely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Can I make this without a springform pan?
You can use a deep-dish pie pan, but a springform pan gives the best structure and presentation.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overbaking or cooling too quickly can cause cracks. Bake until slightly jiggly in the center and cool gradually.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a hot knife (run under hot water and wiped dry) for each slice to keep the cuts neat.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free mint cookies for the crust, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Thin Mint Cheesecake brings together the best of both worlds—decadent cheesecake and iconic cookies—for a dessert that’s equal parts nostalgic and gourmet. With its creamy mint chocolate filling and crunchy cookie crust, it’s bound to become a favorite. Whether you’re celebrating or just satisfying a sweet tooth, this cheesecake is a slice of joy.
Keep the Sweetness Going
If you’re loving the cool, creamy decadence of this Thin Mint Cheesecake, why not explore some other delicious dessert ideas? You’ll adore the rich, cinnamon-kissed flavor of these Churro Cheesecake Bars—a perfect mashup of two classic treats. For a summer-ready frozen option, check out the irresistible Oreo Ice Cream Cake, a no-bake winner packed with creamy layers. The luscious and sophisticated Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bliss is another dreamy option for cheesecake fans. If fruity desserts are more your vibe, dive into the beautifully balanced Strawberry Chocolate Layer Cake or the delightfully crispy Strawberry Cheesecake Wontons for a fun twist. Each of these recipes complements the indulgent joy of Thin Mint Cheesecake with its own unique flair.
Print
Thin Mint Cheesecake
- Total Time: 10 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Thin Mint Cheesecake is a mint chocolate dream come true! Featuring a crunchy Thin Mint cookie crust, a rich mint-infused chocolate cheesecake filling, and a glossy ganache topping, it’s the perfect dessert for cookie lovers and chocolate fans alike.
Ingredients
Crust
-
2 cups Thin Mint cookies, finely crushed
-
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
-
3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
3 large eggs
-
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
-
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1/3 cup heavy cream
-
6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled
-
Green food coloring (optional)
Ganache Topping
-
1/2 cup heavy cream
-
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Garnish
-
Crushed Thin Mint cookies
-
Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix the crushed Thin Mint cookies with melted butter and press into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool. -
Make the Filling
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well. Add sour cream, peppermint extract, vanilla, and heavy cream. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the melted chocolate. Add food coloring if desired. -
Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50–55 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and cool for 1 hour. -
Chill
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight. -
Make the Ganache
Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Cool slightly before pouring over cheesecake. -
Decorate and Serve
Top with crushed Thin Mints and whipped cream if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Use room-temperature ingredients for a silky-smooth cheesecake texture. To avoid cracks, don’t overbake, and cool gradually in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Thin Mint Cheesecake, Mint Chocolate Cheesecake, Girl Scout Cookie Cheesecake, Chocolate Cheesecake with Ganache, Mint Cookie Dessert