Cookie Monster Cheesecake

This playful and indulgent cheesecake is packed with cookies, a vibrant blue hue, and a ton of fun! Perfect for cookie lovers of all ages.

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Crust:

• 2 cups (250g) crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos)
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• Blue gel food coloring
• 1 cup (120g) chopped chocolate chip cookies
• 1 cup (120g) chopped chocolate sandwich cookies

For the Topping:

• Whipped cream or frosting (optional)
• Mini chocolate chip cookies
• Chocolate sandwich cookies

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter until combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the heavy cream until fully combined.
4. Add blue gel food coloring a little at a time, mixing until you reach your desired Cookie Monster shade.
5. Gently fold in the chopped chocolate chip cookies and chocolate sandwich cookies.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
2. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pan (water bath).
3. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
4. Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill and Decorate

1. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath, cover, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
2. Top with whipped cream or frosting if desired, and decorate with mini cookies and sandwich cookies for a Cookie Monster look.

Tips:

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Use gel food coloring for a vibrant blue without altering the texture.
• For clean slices, wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts.

Your Cookie Monster Cheesecake is ready to delight with its whimsical charm and cookie-packed flavor!