Irish Cream Cheesecake

Think beyond the corned beef and cabbage for St. Patrick's Day, or at least top off your Irish meal with cheesecake. You can order one online, or, if you have time, try this delicious Irish Cream Cheesecake Recipe! Cheesecake is a wonderful dessert for any holiday, and St. Patrick's Day is no exception!

Ingredients:

• 1 c Graham Cracker Crumbs
• 1 1/4 c Sugar
• 1/4 c Butter or Margarine, melted
• 1 Env. Unflavored Gelatin
• 1/2 c Cold Water
• 3 Large eggs, separated into yolks and whites
• 16 oz Cream Cheese
• 2 T Cocoa
• 2 T Irish whiskey or strong coffee
• 1 c whipped topping

Directions:

Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter or margarine in bottom of 9-inch springform pan.

Soften the gelatin in water and stir over low heat until it is dissolved. Blend in 3/4 cup of the sugar and the beaten egg yolks; cook, stirring constantly, over low heat, 3 minutes.

Combine cream cheese and cocoa. Mix at medium speed on electric mixer until well blended. Gradually add gelatin mix and whiskey or coffee, mixing until well blended. Chill until thickened, but not set.

Beat egg whites until foamy; gradually adding the remaining sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Fold egg whites and whipped topping into the cheese mixture and pour over crust. Scatter with small candy shamrocks or green sprinkles, if desired, or decorate with green icing.

Recipe Yields: 10-12 Servings