Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pie is light, refreshing, and full of peppermint flavor without being overpowering. It’s made with just a few ingredients and takes only minutes to put together. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, it’s also perfect for busy holidays when your oven is already full. The pink color and crushed candy cane topping make it a beautiful and festive addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chocolate cookie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Peppermint extract
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Optional garnish: extra whipped topping, chocolate shavings, or more crushed peppermint
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Mix until well combined and fluffy.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
- If desired, stir in a few drops of red food coloring for a pink hue.
- Fold in crushed peppermint candies, reserving some for garnish.
- Spoon the mixture into the chocolate cookie crust and smooth the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Before serving, top with additional whipped topping, crushed peppermint, or chocolate shavings.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Mint chocolate version: Use mint extract and mix in mini chocolate chips.
- Oreo crust: Use crushed peppermint or regular Oreos for a homemade base.
- Layered look: Add a layer of chocolate ganache on the crust before the peppermint filling.
- Mini pies: Spoon the filling into mini tart shells for single-serve desserts.
- Lighter version: Use light cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the pie (wrapped tightly) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
This pie is not meant to be heated, so avoid microwaving or baking it after assembling.
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making a day or two ahead. Just keep it chilled until ready to serve.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and gently folded in.
Is peppermint extract the same as mint extract?
No, peppermint extract has a stronger, cooler flavor. Use peppermint for the classic candy cane taste.
Can I make this without food coloring?
Absolutely. The pie will be white, but just as tasty.
What kind of crust works best?
A chocolate cookie crust complements the peppermint flavor perfectly, but a graham cracker crust also works.
Will the peppermint candies melt into the filling?
They’ll soften slightly but still provide a nice crunch and minty burst.
Can I use crushed candy canes for the filling?
Yes, candy canes work just as well as peppermint disks.
How do I crush the peppermint candies?
Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or heavy pan.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, it freezes well. Just wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge before serving.
What should I serve with peppermint pie?
It pairs well with hot chocolate, coffee, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top.
Conclusion
No-Bake Peppermint Pie is a festive, creamy dessert that’s bursting with holiday cheer. It’s easy to prepare, requires no baking, and is always a crowd-pleaser with its refreshing mint flavor and smooth texture. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want a cool treat, this pie is a must-make winter dessert.
PrintNo-Bake Peppermint Pie
No-Bake Peppermint Pie is a cool, creamy dessert made with whipped topping, peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candies in a chocolate cookie crust. With festive flavor and no oven required, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a refreshing winter treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 chocolate cookie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Optional garnishes: extra whipped topping, crushed peppermint, chocolate shavings
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Mix until fluffy and well combined.
- Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
- If using, add a few drops of red food coloring and gently mix to achieve a light pink color.
- Fold in crushed peppermint candies, saving a little for garnish.
- Spoon the filling into the chocolate cookie crust and smooth the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Garnish with extra whipped topping, crushed peppermint, or chocolate shavings before serving.
Notes
- Use peppermint extract (not mint) for the classic candy cane flavor.
- Crush candies in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin or heavy pan.
- Pie can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored chilled.
- For a chocolate twist, mix mini chocolate chips into the filling or add a chocolate ganache layer on the crust.
- Freeze for up to 1 month and thaw before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg