Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This peppermint fluff is easy to make, incredibly festive, and irresistibly delicious. It comes together in minutes with just a few ingredients and no baking required. The combination of fluffy texture and cool peppermint flavor makes it perfect for holiday parties, dessert boards, or as a fun treat for kids and adults alike. It’s also versatile—serve it as a dip, layer it in parfaits, or spoon it into mini dessert cups for an elegant presentation.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Marshmallow creme
- Whipped topping (thawed)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Red or pink food coloring (optional, for color)
Directions
- Mix cream cheese and marshmallow: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and marshmallow creme together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add flavor and color: Mix in the peppermint extract and a few drops of food coloring if desired. Blend until evenly tinted and combined.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated and the mixture is light and airy.
- Add crushed candy: Stir in crushed peppermint candies, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the fluff to set slightly.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and top with additional crushed peppermint before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 and takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time.
Variations
- Chocolate peppermint: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a mint chocolate twist.
- Layered dessert: Layer the fluff with crushed cookies or brownies in jars for individual no-bake desserts.
- Dairy-free version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping.
- Extra minty: Add a touch of mint extract along with peppermint for a bolder mint flavor.
- Frozen fluff: Freeze the mixture in molds for a frozen peppermint treat.
Storage/Reheating
Store peppermint fluff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This dessert is best served chilled. Do not freeze, as the texture may become grainy when thawed.
FAQs
What is peppermint fluff made of?
It’s a creamy dessert dip made with marshmallow creme, whipped topping, cream cheese, peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candy.
Can I make peppermint fluff ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I use Cool Whip?
Yes, Cool Whip or any whipped topping works well in this recipe. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before folding in.
How do I crush peppermint candies?
Place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or heavy object until fine or coarsely crushed, depending on your preference.
Is food coloring necessary?
No, it’s optional. It just adds a festive pink or red hue to the fluff.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, you can substitute with freshly whipped cream—just make sure it’s stabilized or thick enough to hold the fluff’s shape.
What can I serve with peppermint fluff?
Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, chocolate cookies, pretzels, or fresh fruit for dipping.
Can I use this as a frosting?
Yes, it can be used as a fluffy topping or frosting for cakes, cupcakes, or brownies.
Is peppermint fluff gluten-free?
Yes, the base ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your crushed candies and dipping items are certified gluten-free.
Can kids help make this?
Absolutely! It’s a fun, no-bake recipe that kids can help mix, fold, and garnish.
Conclusion
Peppermint fluff is a festive, no-fuss treat that’s perfect for spreading holiday cheer. With its sweet minty flavor, creamy texture, and colorful presentation, it’s a delightful addition to dessert tables, cookie trays, or as a dip at your next holiday gathering. Easy to make and always a hit, this seasonal favorite will quickly become a go-to recipe each winter.
PrintPeppermint Fluff
Peppermint fluff is a light, creamy no-bake dessert dip made with marshmallow creme, whipped topping, cream cheese, peppermint extract, and crushed peppermint candies. It’s festive, sweet, and perfect for the holiday season.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 (7 oz) jar marshmallow creme
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 2–3 drops red or pink food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and marshmallow creme together until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix in the peppermint extract and food coloring (if using) until evenly combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated and the mixture is light and airy.
- Stir in the crushed peppermint candies, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and fluff to set slightly.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with additional crushed peppermint, and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use Cool Whip or any thawed whipped topping for best texture and convenience.
- For a chocolate-mint version, add mini chocolate chips.
- Serve with graham crackers, cookies, or fresh fruit.
- Store in the fridge and do not freeze to maintain fluffy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg