Description
Picture slicing into a vibrant pink cheesecake with a crunchy graham cracker or Oreo crust, packed with melty chocolate, chunks of Snickers bars, and topped with whipped cream and colorful M&Ms. Sounds like a party on a plate, right? That’s exactly what Pink M&M Snickers Cheesecake delivers! This no-bake dessert is a fun, indulgent treat perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just satisfying your sweet tooth
Ingredients
Base
- Graham Cracker Crumbs or Crushed Oreos (1 1/2 cups): Form the crunchy crust.
- Why it matters: Provides a buttery, sturdy base for the creamy filling.
- Substitution: Use digestive biscuits or shortbread crumbs; Oreos add a chocolatey twist.
- Melted Unsalted Butter (1/3 cup): Binds the crust.
- Why it matters: Ensures the crumbs stick together and add richness.
- Substitution: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Filling
- Cream Cheese (3 x 8 oz packs, softened): The creamy foundation.
- Why it matters: Creates a smooth, rich cheesecake texture.
- Substitution: Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling smoothly.
- Why it matters: Dissolves easily for a silky texture.
- Substitution: Use granulated sugar, but beat longer to avoid graininess.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth.
- Why it matters: Enhances the chocolate and Snickers flavors.
- Substitution: Use vanilla bean paste for a gourmet touch.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Lightens the filling.
- Why it matters: Whips into a fluffy texture for a creamy, airy result.
- Substitution: Use coconut cream for dairy-free (chill before whipping).
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (2 cups, melted and cooled): Add rich chocolate flavor.
- Why it matters: Blend with the cream cheese for a decadent filling.
- Substitution: Use milk chocolate for sweeter flavor or dark chocolate for less sweetness.
- Chopped Snickers Bars (1 cup): Bring caramel, peanut, and chocolate crunch.
- Why it matters: Add texture and a candy bar surprise.
- Substitution: Use chopped Twix, Milky Way, or peanut butter cups.
- Pink Food Coloring (gel or liquid): Creates the fun pink hue.
- Why it matters: Makes the cheesecake visually striking and playful.
- Substitution: Use natural beet powder for a pink tint or skip for a classic look.
Toppings
- Whipped Cream (for decorating): Adds a fluffy, elegant finish.
- Why it matters: Lightens the richness and enhances presentation.
- Substitution: Use coconut whipped cream for dairy-free.
- Chopped Snickers Bars (optional, for garnish): Add extra crunch and candy flair.
- Why it matters: Boost the Snickers flavor and visual appeal.
- Substitution: Use other chopped candy bars or nuts.
- M&Ms (optional, for decoration): Bring colorful, crunchy pops.
- Why it matters: Add a fun, festive touch to match the pink theme.
- Substitution: Use sprinkles, chocolate chips, or crushed candy.
Pro Tip: Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes for easier mixing, and use gel food coloring for a vibrant pink without thinning the filling.
Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- Crush 1 1/2 cups graham crackers or Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or a sealed bag with a rolling pin.
- Mix crumbs with 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter until well combined.
- Press firmly into the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set.
- Tip: Use the bottom of a glass to press the crust for a smooth, compact base.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Melt 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips in a pan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly (about 5-10 minutes).
- Tip: Stir continuously and use low heat to avoid scorching the chocolate.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat 3 (8 oz) packs softened cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually mix in the cooled melted chocolate until fully combined.
- Gently fold in 1 cup chopped Snickers bars with a spatula.
- Tip: Ensure cream cheese is soft to avoid lumps, and fold Snickers gently to keep chunks intact.
- Add Pink Color:
- In a small bowl, mix a small portion (about 1/2 cup) of the filling with a few drops of pink food coloring (gel or liquid).
- Gradually blend the colored portion back into the main filling, adding more coloring if needed until the desired pink shade is achieved.
- Tip: Start with a small amount of coloring and add gradually to control the hue.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup heavy cream with a mixer until stiff peaks form (about 2 minutes).
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pink filling, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Tip: Fold slowly to keep the filling light and airy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the pink filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm (overnight is best).
- Tip: Smooth the top carefully for a polished look when sliced.
- Decorate and Serve:
- Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
- Top with whipped cream (piped or spread), extra chopped Snickers bars, and M&Ms for decoration, as desired.
- Slice into 8-10 wedges and serve chilled.
- Health Benefit: Cream cheese provides calcium, but this rich dessert is a treat to enjoy sparingly!