Introduction

This no-bake Candy Cane Pie, also known as Peppermint Pie, is a creamy and festive dessert layered in a rich chocolate cookie crust. Its refreshing peppermint flavor combined with crunchy candy canes makes it a perfect holiday treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults.

A slice of peppermint cream pie with three visible layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark chocolate crumb crust with a rough texture, firmly holding the pie. The middle layer is thick and creamy, pale white with small red peppermint pieces mixed inside, giving it a slightly speckled look. On top, there are five swirled dollops of whipped cream evenly spaced along the edge, each decorated with small red peppermint bits. Some peppermint crumbs are scattered on the plate around the pie. In the blurred background, two more pies of the same kind are visible in white dishes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (6 oz) chocolate cookie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Red food coloring (optional, for pink swirl effect)
Additional crushed candy canes for garnish
Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: If making a homemade crust, crush chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand, then press firmly into a pie dish. Chill the crust while preparing the filling.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add powdered sugar and peppermint extract to the cream cheese and mix until fully combined, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula to maintain airiness until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Stir in the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies to add festive texture.
Step 6: If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring and gently fold to create a pink swirl effect without overmixing.
Step 7: Spoon the peppermint filling evenly into the prepared chocolate cookie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
Step 9: Before serving, top with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle extra crushed candy canes for garnish. Slice and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use gluten-free chocolate cookies or a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option.
Substitute vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped topping for a dairy-free version.
Try crushed Oreo cookies or chocolate-covered peppermint candies instead of candy canes for different flavors.
Add vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost or reduce powdered sugar for less sweetness.
Fold in chopped nuts or swirl melted chocolate for added texture and richness.

Storage

Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze it by wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it will keep for up to one month. To serve after freezing, defrost overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temperature. Avoid leaving the thawed pie out too long to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

A single slice of a pie is shown on a white plate over a white marbled surface. The pie has three main layers: the bottom layer is a dark brown crumbly crust, the thick middle layer is creamy white with small red specks mixed inside, and the top layer is decorated with five swirls of white whipped cream, each sprinkled with red crushed peppermint candy pieces. Some crushed peppermint bits are also scattered on the plate near the pie slice. In the blurry background, parts of other pie slices on similar white plates are visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What if my pie doesn’t set properly?

If the pie is too soft or doesn’t hold its shape, it likely needs more chilling time. Refrigerate it longer until it firms up correctly.

Can I prepare this pie ahead of time?

Yes! This pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two in advance and keep it chilled until ready to serve.