This Delicious Cookie Monster Cheesecake features a rich and creamy cheesecake filling on a chocolate cookie crust, topped with playful blue frosting and decorated to resemble the beloved Cookie Monster. Perfect for any celebration, this dessert is as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Crust:
- 2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
For the Blue Cookie Monster Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Blue food coloring
- Extra chocolate sandwich cookies for decoration
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix crushed cookies, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add sour cream and mix well. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and crushed cookies.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Add blue food coloring and mix until the desired shade is achieved.
- Frost and Decorate: Frost the chilled cheesecake with blue frosting, creating a “monster” look with extra cookies for eyes and a mouth.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 50-60 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 500 kcal per slice
Variations
- Different Crust: Substitute the chocolate sandwich cookies with graham crackers or another type of cookie.
- Frosting Flavors: Experiment with different colors and flavors of frosting for different themes.
- Add-ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or chunks into the cheesecake filling for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature before serving. If frozen, defrost in the refrigerator overnight.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
- Yes, you can use any type of cookie that you like or have on hand.
- Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- What can I use instead of blue food coloring?
- You can use different food coloring to match any theme or occasion.
- How can I make sure my cheesecake doesn’t crack?
- Bake the cheesecake at a lower temperature and avoid overmixing. Also, allow it to cool slowly in the oven.
- Can I use a different type of frosting?
- Yes, you can use buttercream, whipped cream, or any frosting of your choice.
- How do I prevent the crust from being too hard?
- Do not overbake the crust. Press it gently into the pan and bake it just until set.
- Can I make mini cheesecakes with this recipe?
- Yes, you can use a muffin tin or mini cheesecake pan and adjust the baking time.
- What if my cheesecake is too soft?
- Make sure it is fully set before removing from the oven. If needed, refrigerate it longer.
- Can I use store-bought cookie crumbs for the crust?
- Yes, store-bought cookie crumbs are a convenient alternative to crushing your own cookies.
- How can I achieve a smooth frosting texture?
- Beat the frosting well and add milk gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
Conclusion
The Delicious Cookie Monster Cheesecake is a fun and indulgent treat that combines a rich chocolate cookie crust with a creamy cheesecake filling, all topped with playful blue frosting. Perfect for special occasions or simply to delight family and friends, this dessert is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy creating this whimsical and delicious cheesecake that brings a touch of fun to your baking repertoire.