PEPPERMINT CHEESECAKE

Steps:

• Place cookies in a heavy zip lock bag and crush with a rolling pin.
• Pour into a buttered 9 inch springform pan and pour melted butter over crumbs.
• mix to coat, then press evenly over bottom and about 1/2 inch up sides of pan.
• Bake in a 300 degree oven until crust is slightly darker and looks a bit dry, about 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile in a bowl, with a mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese and sugar until well blended.
• Beat in sour cream.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating after each additioon.
• Beat in flour, vanilla, peppermint extract and salt until smooth.
• Pour cream cheese mixture into pan over baked crust.
• Bake until edges are just golden and center jiggles slightly when pan is gently shaken, about 1 hour.
• Run a knife around edge of pan rim.
• Place pan on a wire rack and cool cheesecake completely in pan.
• Cover and chill until cold, at least 4 hours or up to 2 days.
• Run a knife around edge again, then release rim.
• If any liquid has pooled on surface of cheesecake, blot dry gently with a paper towel.
• Decorate top of cake with crushed candycane, pressing in gently with your hands.