This gluten-free, dairy-free dessert brings together classic flavors in a sophisticated presentation!
Cheesecake and chocolate go together like Queen Bey and Jay-Z. Each brings out the best in the other, and together they make a sophisticated and memorable partnership. This recipe for chocolate no-bake peppermint cheesecake cups is like a musical collab between those two icons—destined for the greatest hits list!
I adore cheesecake in all its forms. And I’ve never met a piece of chocolate I didn’t love. But I was concerned about whether this nondairy, sugar-free version would meet my expectations for flavor and texture. I needn’t have worried. It hits exactly the right notes of creamy tang and silky decadence that made me fall in love with chocolate cheesecake years ago—sans the hit to my health goals. Plus, the subtle peppermint flavor adds a bright freshness that makes this dessert feel downright festive. And biting into that dark chocolate cup makes getting to the cool, custardy cheesecake an absolute delight!
The chilling times and artistic component of making the chocolate cups keep this recipe delegated to weekends. It’s a fun project that my gluten-free niece loves pitching in on. We made them for a family birthday party close to Valentine’s Day, and they were a huge hit! I used chocolate nonpareils on some in place of candy canes for a little variety.
Are Chocolate No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Cups Healthy?
These cheesecake cups are a lower-sugar, dairy-free, gluten-free dessert option that can fit into many balanced diets. They are relatively low in calories and sugar but higher in saturated fat, mainly from the coconut oil. There is minimal sodium and cholesterol in the cups, but also very little protein. The dark chocolate and plant-based alternatives deliver some fiber and iron. Overall, this recipe makes a healthier version of this dessert, but it’s still an indulgent treat that should be consumed in moderation.
To lower the saturated fat content, opt for almond- or soy-based cream cheese and yogurt alternatives that tend to contain less saturated fat. Add a scoop of unflavored vegan protein powder to the filling to boost the protein content. Make a Paleo-friendly version by using coconut-based yogurt and cream cheese alternatives and swapping erythritol for maple syrup—but expect a slightly different flavor profile.
What Is Erythritol?
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener in many sugar-free and reduced-sugar foods. Naturally found in small amounts in fruits like grapes, pears, and melons, the erythritol used in commercial products is typically produced by fermenting glucose derived from plant starches—most commonly corn—using specific types of yeast or fungi. This fermentation process yields erythritol crystals that look and taste similar to table sugar, but with about 60–70% of the sweetness and almost no calories. One of erythritol’s main advantages is its minimal impact on blood sugar and insulin levels, making it a popular choice for people with diabetes or those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.
In terms of flavor and texture, erythritol is favored for its clean, sugar-like taste without the bitter aftertaste that can come with some other sugar substitutes. It tends to be less soluble than sugar, which can affect the texture of some recipes.
Erythritol is less sweet and lacks the fruity notes of monk fruit extract, another popular sugar substitute. Monk fruit is intensely sweet and often blended with erythritol to balance its flavor and improve texture in baked goods and desserts. Both are considered safe by major health authorities, but erythritol is especially valued for its sugar-like mouthfeel and versatility in cooking and baking, as it is heat-stable and can be used in a wide range of recipes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Don’t leave these cheesecake cups out at room temp for more than 2 hours. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze your cups for up to 3 months. If you know you’ll be freezing them, it’s best to leave the paper liners on the cups. Thaw overnight—or at least for several hours—in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chocolate no-bake peppermint cheesecake cups as a sweet ending to any meal. They’re great after dining on Grilled London Broil, Low-Carb Keto Shrimp Zucchini Boats On The Grill, or Grilled Mexican Quesadilla Recipe With Lentils. Pair them with these Strawberry-Coconut Ice Pops With Blueberries for festive fun everyone can enjoy!
Ingredients
For The Cheesecake:
- 3 8-ounce packages dairy-free cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons erythritol sweetener
- 1 container vanilla nondairy yogurt alternative
- 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
For The Chocolate Cups:
- 8 ounces dairy-free dark chocolate plus additional for easier melting
- 1 1/2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Make The Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, using an electric hand mixer, beat together the cream cheese and sweetener until well combined.
- Add the yogurt and peppermint and blend until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
Make The Chocolate Cups:
- Place the chocolate and coconut oil in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Melt at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and melted.
- Using a small, clean paintbrush, brush the melted chocolate inside the center and up the sides of 12 muffin liners. It doesn't have to be perfect, as you'll be doing more coats.
- Place the liners into a muffin tin to help keep their shape. Freeze until firm, about 5-8 minutes.
- Repeat the process until you've used all the chocolate and the liners contain thick cups of chocolate. Freeze until totally hard, at least 20 minutes.
Assemble The Cheesecake Cups:
- Once the chocolate cups are frozen hard and the filling has chilled until set, gently peel away the paper liners.
- Use a piping bag to pipe the set cheesecake filling into the chocolate cups.
- Just before serving, sprinkle with crushed candy canes, if desired.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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