Candy Cane Pie No-Bake (Printable)
Creamy peppermint filling in a chocolate cookie crust topped with crunchy candy cane pieces and whipped cream.
# What You'll Need:
→ Crust
01 - 1 1/2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreo), finely crushed
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
→ Filling
03 - 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
04 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup powdered sugar
06 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
08 - 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
09 - 1/3 cup crushed candy canes
10 - Red food coloring, as needed for hue (optional)
→ Topping
11 - 1 cup whipped cream
12 - Additional crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish
# How-To Steps:
01 - Combine chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs and melted butter in a medium mixing bowl. Press mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator while assembling the filling.
02 - In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until thoroughly smooth and creamy.
04 - Gently fold the whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and crushed candy canes into the cream cheese mixture. If desired, swirl in a few drops of red food coloring for a festive hue.
05 - Spoon filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until the center is fully set.
06 - Prior to serving, top with whipped cream and garnish generously with additional crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- It tastes like a chocolate-peppermint dream without ever needing the oven or a candy thermometer.
- The crunch of candy cane pieces surprises with every bite and makes it feel like a secret celebration between friends.
02 -
- If your cream cheese isn’t truly soft, your filling will never whip silky smooth—I fought the mixer the first time and learned my lesson.
- Crushing candy canes too early can cause them to clump due to humidity—bash them last minute for perfect sprinkles.
03 -
- Don't rush the chilling: overnight rest means the filling slices beautifully and flavors meld like magic.
- For even more peppermint punch, stir a few mint chocolate candies into the marshmallow layer.