Ingredients
1-1/2 cups chocolate wafer crumbs1/3 cup butter, melted2 tablespoons sugarFILLING:3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened3/4 cup sugar3 tablespoons all-purpose flour4 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten1 cup sour cream2 tablespoons vanilla or white chips1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extractRed liquid or paste food coloringCrushed peppermint candy and whipped topping, optional
Preparation
Combine the first three ingredients; press onto the bottom of a 9-in. springform pan. Chill. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth; add flour and mix well. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until blended. Stir in sour cream. Set aside.
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt vanilla chips. Remove from the heat. Add 1/4 cup cream cheese mixture, extract and a few drops of food coloring; mix well. Pour half of the remaining cream cheese mixture over crust. Top with half of the peppermint mixture; swirl with a knife. Repeat layers.
Bake at 325° for 35-40 minutes longer or until the center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan; cool 1 hour longer.
Refrigerate overnight. Just before serving, remove sides of pan. Garnish with crushed candy and whipped topping if desired. Refrigerate leftovers.
