Andes Candies Chocolate Mint Cheesecake

Ingredients

CRUST INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup chocolate wafer crumbs
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

FILLING INGREDIENTS

• 32 ounces cream cheese, softened (this IS the correct amount)
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 28 Andes mints candies or 1 cup Andes mint baking chips

TOPPING INGREDIENTS

• 3 tablespoons whipping cream or whole milk
• 28 Andes mints candies or 1 cup Andes mint baking chips, divided

Directions

1. 1

   For the CRUST: Mix crumbs and 3 tablespoons sugar in small bowl.

2. 2

   Add butter, mixing well.

3. 3

   Press on bottom of 9-inch springform pan.

4. 4

   BAKE at 325* (F) for 10 minutes.

5. 5

   For the FILLING: Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar in large bowl at medium speed until well blended.

6. 6

   Add eggs and vanilla, mixing on low until well combined, do NOT overmix.

7. 7

   Stir in 1 package of chopped Andes Candies (28 pieces) and pour into crust.

8. 8

   BAKE: 325* (F) for 1 hour and 5 minutes or until center is almost set.

9. 9

   Run a knife between pan and cheesecake.

10. 10

    Set cake on cooling rack till room temperature.

11. 11

    Remove sides of pan.

12. 12

    For TOPPING:.

13. 13

    Set aside 10 or 12 Andes candies for decorating cake top.

14. 14

    In a microwavable bowl, mix remaining candies with cream (or milk).

15. 15

    On high, microwave 45 seconds.

16. 16

    Stir till candies melt and mixture is smooth.

17. 17

    Spread over cheesecake and let drizzle down sides.

18. 18

    Decorate with reserved Andes Candies.

19. 19

    REFRIGERATE, at least, 3 hours or until serving time.

20. 20

    Refrigerate any leftovers.