Cookie Monster Cheesecake
Are you a cheesecake lover? Do you also have a sweet spot for cookies? If so, the Cookie Monster Cheesecake is just for you! This delightful dessert combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fun crunch of cookies, topped with a vibrant blue drizzle and cookie garnishes. It’s a dessert that’s sure to brighten up any occasion and impress your friends and family!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cookie Monster Cheesecake is a fun and rewarding experience. Not only is it delicious, but it also allows you to unleash your creativity. The combination of cheesecake and cookies offers a unique twist that is loved by both kids and adults alike. Plus, the bright blue color adds a playful element that makes this dessert visually appealing. It’s perfect for birthdays, parties, or any time you want to treat yourself!
How to Make Cookie Monster Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup semisweet mini chocolate chips
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup whipping cream
- Sky blue gel paste food coloring
- 3 eggs
- 15 regular Oreo cookies (chopped)
- 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- Pinch of salt
- Chocolate chip cookies (for garnish)
- Blue candy melts (for drizzle)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8-inch springform pan with nonstick spray.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the melted butter, salt, and light brown sugar. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted. Let cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Stir in half of the flour, then fold in the remaining flour and mini chocolate chips.
- Press the dough into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
- Beat together cream cheese, cornstarch, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add a pinch of salt, whipping cream, vanilla extract, and a few drops of blue food coloring. Mix until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in the chopped Oreo cookies.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled cookie crust.
- Wrap the pan in heavy-duty foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place it in a larger pan with an inch or two of hot water.
- Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes until the center jiggles slightly (like Jello).
- Turn off the heat, crack the oven door, and let it cool for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath, then cool to room temperature (4-5 hours). Chill in the fridge overnight.
- Microwave chocolate chips, whipped cream, and a pinch of salt in 30-second intervals, stirring after each. Let it cool until it’s spreadable.
- Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake.
- Pipe swirls of ganache on top using a 1M piping tip.
- Melt the blue candy melts, drizzle over the cheesecake using a piping bag.
- Top the ganache swirls with chocolate chip cookies.
- Store in the fridge until ready to serve.
How to Serve Cookie Monster Cheesecake
Serve your Cookie Monster Cheesecake chilled, straight from the fridge. It’s best to slice the cheesecake with a sharp knife, dipping the knife in hot water to make clean cuts. This will help you serve neat and lovely slices. It can be enjoyed as a dessert at gatherings or even as a fun sweet treat after dinner.
How to Store Cookie Monster Cheesecake
If you have leftovers, or just want to prepare ahead, store your Cookie Monster Cheesecake in the fridge. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it very well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Cookie Monster Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Don’t skip the water bath; it helps to keep the cheesecake dense and creamy.
- For a fun touch, use fun cookie bits or colorful sprinkles on top.
- Experiment with different cookie flavors if you want to switch up the taste.
Variation
You can vary the cookie flavors in the crust or add different kinds of cookies into the cheesecake batter. For example, using chocolate sandwich cookies instead of regular Oreo cookies can change the flavor profile dramatically. You can also adjust the food coloring to create different colors for special occasions.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cookie for the crust?
Yes! You can use any cookie that you like, such as graham crackers, chocolate cookies, or even a mix of cookies for a unique taste.
How long does it take to make this cheesecake?
The preparation and baking time is approximately 2 to 3 hours, plus chilling time of at least 4 hours. For best results, chill it overnight.
Can I freeze Cookie Monster Cheesecake?
Yes! You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Enjoy your cooking, and delight in the smiles your Cookie Monster Cheesecake creates!