Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cheesecake

Cheesecake can be intimidating to the home baker. Water baths, cracked tops, oven time...there's a lot to worry about when making this dessert in your own kitchen. But fret not: This no-bake version is stress-free and just as delicious as the kind that takes much longer to make. It's a great make-ahead treat, especially around the busy holiday season.

The crunch of the thin chocolate graham cracker crust is a cinch to prepare and provides fabulous texture, a must for a creamy dessert. The filling is decadent, yet light and velvety, with a pop of peppermint and vanilla. And the addition of hot cocoa makes this treat ideal for winter.

Whereas traditional cheesecake contains eggs, giving it a denser, thicker texture, this no-bake peppermint cheesecake uses whipped heavy cream, resulting in a lighter, mousse-like consistency. And it's actually not a cake — it's a trifle. No competing for oven time here.

When making this peppermint cheesecake, it's important to plan ahead, as you want to chill it in the refrigerator long enough for it to firm up and set. Four hours ought to do it — just enough time to prepare and eat your meal, drink an eggnog or hot toddy, and turn up the Bing Crosby.

You can make this even more fun and festive by adding crushed candy canes, chocolate sprinkles or shavings, peppermint bark, or mini marshmallows. Or, set up a toppings bar and let your guests choose their own adventure.

An easy-to-make, delicious dessert, and an interactive experience? That's a total holiday win.