Description
No-bake candy cane pie is a festive, creamy dessert featuring a crunchy chocolate cookie crust and a cool peppermint-flavored filling studded with crushed candy canes. This light and fluffy pie is perfect for holiday celebrations, Christmas parties, potlucks, or as a convenient make-ahead treat requiring no baking.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, finely crushed)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for topping)
- Red or pink food coloring (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Extra crushed candy canes
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until the mixture is well incorporated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to set.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring it holds its shape.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain the airy texture. Stir in the crushed candy canes and add red or pink food coloring if desired for a festive look.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the prepared filling evenly into the chilled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until firm enough to slice.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, decorate the pie with optional toppings such as whipped cream, extra crushed candy canes, and chocolate shavings to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free chocolate cookies.
- The pie can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to enhance flavors and convenience.
- To intensify the peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract gradually while tasting to avoid overpowering the dessert.
