M&M’s and Black and White Velvet Cheesecake

A M&M’s and Black and White Velvet Cheesecake is an indulgent and fun twist on the classic cheesecake, combining the richness of a velvet cheesecake with colorful M&M’s and a stunning black-and-white design. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate cookie crumbs)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for the black velvet portion)
• 1/2 cup M&M’s (for mixing into the cheesecake batter)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate (melted, for the white velvet portion)

For the Topping:

• Extra M&M’s (for decoration)
• Whipped cream (optional, for extra garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate cookie crumbs), granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even, firm crust.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract, then mix in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Add the sour cream, heavy cream, and flour to the mixture and beat until fully combined and smooth.
4. Divide the batter into two portions:
   • For the black velvet portion, add cocoa powder to one half and mix well.
   • For the white velvet portion, add melted white chocolate to the other half and mix.
5. Fold the M&M’s into the portion that will be your base layer (either the black or white velvet portion).

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour the black velvet cheesecake batter into the bottom of the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Spoon the white velvet cheesecake batter on top of the black batter, creating layers.
3. Using a knife or skewer, swirl the two batters together gently to create a marbled effect.
4. Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes at 325°F (163°C), or until the center is set but slightly wobbly.
5. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight to fully set.

Step 4: Decorate and Serve

1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan.
2. Top with extra M&M’s and, if desired, a dollop of whipped cream.
3. Slice and enjoy the creamy, colorful, and decadent M&M’s and Black and White Velvet Cheesecake!

This cheesecake is perfect for celebrations, birthdays, or anytime you want a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious! The contrasting black and white layers make it look as beautiful as it tastes.