Candy Cane Pie

This cool, creamy, homemade peppermint pie is the perfect irresistible holiday dessert!

Table of Contents

Peppermint Pie Ingredients
Peppermint Pie Substitutions And Additions
How To Make This Candy Cane Pie Recipe
Troubleshooting This Peppermint Pie Recipe
How To Serve Peppermint Pie
When To Serve Peppermint Pie
How To Store Candy Cane Pie
Why We Love This Peppermint Pie Recipe
Peppermint Pie Frequently Asked Questions
More Recipes You’ll Love
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If you love all things peppermint, this peppermint pie will quickly become your favorite treat. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of cool mint and creamy goodness, topped with whipped cream and candy cane pieces for an extra touch of sweetness. It’s the ultimate dessert to bring a refreshing twist to any occasion, guaranteed to have everyone asking for more.

close up shot of candy cane pie garnished with crushed candy canes in a pie pan

What You Need To Know

MAIN INGREDIENTS: Oreo chocolate pie crust, cream cheese, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, whipped topping, pink food coloring, candy canes, mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings

QUICK STEPS: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and peppermint extract, fold in whipped topping and food coloring, spread mixture in pie crust, chill, garnish with marshmallows, candy canes, and chocolate

TOTAL TIME AND YIELD: 15 minutes prep, 4 hours chill time, serves 8

Why This Recipe

Unlike most peppermint pies, our recipe includes mini marshmallows, adding a fun, chewy texture that complements the creamy filling and crunchy candy canes.
Our team of recipe developers worked to perfect the amount of peppermint extract, ensuring the pie has a refreshing mint flavor without being overpowering.
We have tested the ratios and ingredients to make sure the filling sets up perfectly every time, delivering consistent, delicious results

Peppermint Pie Ingredients

This peppermint pie recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy and minty flavors.

The key ingredients include peppermint candy canes for a refreshing crunch and peppermint extract for a cool kick, this festive and indulgent dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings.

You’ll need:

1 cup of heavy cream
1½ cups of powdered sugar
2 (8-ounce) packages of cream cheese, softened
10 drops of red food coloring
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of peppermint extract
½ cup of peppermint candy canes or mints, crushed
2 Oreo pie crusts
16 ounces of Cool Whip
Crushed peppermint candies for decoration on top of the pie

PRO TIP:

A ready-to-go Oreo crust serves as our base in this simple recipe. I prefer picking mine up at the grocery store, but you could also make the chocolate cookie crust from scratch if you’d like.

Peppermint Pie Substitutions And Additions

WHIPPED CREAM: You can use store-bought Cool Whip in this no-bake peppermint pie, or check out our homemade stabilized whipped cream recipe.

PEPPERMINT EXTRACT: If you want a milder mint flavor, you can reduce the amount of peppermint extract or replace it with spearmint extract for a different twist on the pie’s mintiness.

VANILLA EXTRACT: While vanilla extract adds depth, you can try almond extract for a nuttier undertone or even a touch of rum or bourbon for a more adult twist.

RED FOOD COLORING: The red food coloring is purely for visual appeal. Feel free to skip it or use natural food coloring if you prefer a more natural-looking pie.

PEPPERMINT CANDY CANES: Experiment with different types of candies like butterscotch or toffee bits for a unique crunch, or use crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.

How To Make This Candy Cane Pie Recipe

Once you make the minty filling for this tasty pie, spread it in the pie crust and give it lots of time to chill. You’ll be ready to dig in before you know it.

STEP ONE: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set it aside.

STEP TWO: In a medium bowl with a hand mixer, cream together the powdered sugar and cream cheese.

PRO TIP:

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature so that you don’t end up with lumps in your pie filling.

powdered sugar and cream cheese whisked together in a bowl

STEP THREE: Add the food coloring, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and mix until a uniform color.

food coloring and vanilla added to the cream cheese mixture whisked together in a bowl

STEP FOUR: Mix in half a cup of crushed candy canes with the cream cheese/powdered sugar.

STEP FIVE: Add the powdered sugar/cream cheese mixture to the bowl of heavy whipping cream and mix together at low speed until combined.

whipped cream combined with the cream cheese mixture

STEP SIX: Pour half the pie filling mixture into each of the chocolate pie crusts.

PRO TIP:

If you use a store-bought chocolate crumb crust that comes in a foil pie pan, we’d suggest placing the whole thing (crust and foil pan) inside a glass pie plate to help with stability.

spread mixture poured on top of oreo crust

STEP SEVEN: Top your delicious pie with Cool Whip and crushed peppermint. Chill for one to two hours or until ready to serve.

Troubleshooting This Peppermint Pie Recipe

The filling is too soft and doesn’t set properly.
Make sure to chill the pie for at least four hours, or overnight if possible, to give the filling time to firm up.

The peppermint flavor is too strong.
Use the exact amount of peppermint extract called for in the recipe. A little goes a long way, and adding too much can overpower the other ingredients.

The Oreo crust crumbles when slicing the pie.
Press the crust firmly into the pie dish and chill it for 30 minutes before adding the filling. This helps it stay intact when cut.

The pie looks messy when garnishing with candy canes and marshmallows.
Add the garnishes just before serving to keep them fresh and make sure they don’t get soggy or lose their texture.

The whipped topping in the filling deflates or becomes watery.
Use a high-quality whipped topping and gently fold it into the filling to avoid deflating it. Be careful not to overmix.

The candy cane garnish melts and becomes sticky on the pie.
Crush the candy canes just before serving and sprinkle them on top right before serving to maintain their crunchy texture.

The filling is too sweet for some tastes.
Adjust the sweetness by slightly reducing the powdered sugar in the filling if you prefer a less sweet dessert.

The pink color isn’t vibrant enough.
Add food coloring sparingly, and increase the amount if needed, to achieve the desired pink shade without overpowering the flavor.

The pie doesn’t hold up well if left out at room temperature for too long.
Keep the pie chilled until ready to serve, and store leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain its texture and firmness.

How To Serve Peppermint Pie

Peppermint pie is a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re keeping it casual or dressing it up, this dessert is as versatile as it is delicious. Its creamy texture and minty flavor offer plenty of options for pairing and presentation, making it a standout choice when you’re looking for a sweet way to finish a meal.

Classic Presentation: Serve your peppermint pie chilled for the best texture and flavor. Use a sharp knife, wiped clean between slices, to cut through the creamy filling and the Oreo crust neatly.

Whipped Cream Garnish: A dollop of whipped cream on each slice adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich filling.

Holiday Dessert Spread: If you’re serving peppermint pie during the colder months, consider pairing it with warm desserts like a rich chocolate cake or gooey brownies. The cool, minty flavor of the pie creates a refreshing contrast to these rich treats, offering guests a balanced variety of textures and tastes.

Summer Frozen Dessert Buffet: Peppermint pie isn’t just for winter. Include it in a summer frozen dessert buffet alongside dishes like strawberry sorbet or vanilla ice cream. The cool mint pairs beautifully with fruity flavors, creating a refreshing and light dessert selection for warm-weather gatherings.

When To Serve Peppermint Pie

Peppermint pie is one of those desserts that works for a wide range of occasions. Its cool, minty flavor and creamy texture make it a versatile choice, whether you’re celebrating with friends or looking for a simple, refreshing treat after dinner.

No matter the setting, this pie adds a fresh, light touch that will be appreciated by anyone who loves the taste of peppermint.

Family Gathering: Serve peppermint pie at your next family dinner as a refreshing and light dessert option. It’s an easy make-ahead treat that can sit in the fridge while you enjoy the main course, offering a cool finish to the meal.

Potluck Party: Bring peppermint pie to a casual potluck where a variety of dishes are being shared. Its unique minty flavor will stand out among the usual dessert selections, offering something a little different that guests will love.

Birthday Celebration: Instead of the usual cake, serve peppermint pie for a birthday celebration. It’s a fun, unexpected dessert that’s especially appreciated by those who enjoy mint-flavored treats.

Office Party: Bring peppermint pie to your next office party for an easy, shareable dessert. Since it’s no-bake, it’s simple to prepare in advance, and its cool, creamy filling offers a nice break from more traditional, rich desserts like cakes or cookies.

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How To Store Candy Cane Pie

Whether you plan to make the pie ahead for a special occasion or have some leftovers, here’s what you need to know:

MAKE AHEAD: If you’re planning ahead, you can prepare your candy cane pie a day in advance.

Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator.

This will allow the flavors to meld together and make it even more delicious.

IN THE FRIDGE: Keep this peppermint pie recipe covered in plastic wrap for up to three days.

IN THE FREEZER: This recipe won’t freeze very well, so we recommend eating it up soon after you make it.

Why We Love This Peppermint Pie Recipe

FESTIVE FLAVOR FUSION: This pie is the perfect holiday dessert that brings together the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate in a delightful and refreshing way, making it a perfect dessert for the festive season.

CREAMY AND DREAMY: The creamy peppermint filling, thanks to cream cheese and Cool Whip, creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

EASY TO MAKE: With step-by-step instructions and readily available ingredients, this recipe is approachable for novice bakers, ensuring that anyone can whip up a delicious homemade dessert.

This Christmas holidays, I bet you’ll find yourself making this easy peppermint pie several times. It’s a fast, tasty option to serve guests or to take to a party. Not only is it delicious, but I also love the bright, beautiful colors!

Peppermint Pie Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this pie?

This no-bake pie won’t freeze very well so it is best to eat it up within a few days of making it.

Could I make this recipe with a graham cracker crust instead?

This delicious dessert would also be amazing with a graham cracker crust instead of the chocolate crust.

Can I leave out the peppermint extract?

If you want to tone down the peppermint flavor a touch, you can leave out the peppermint extract without affecting the flavor of the pie.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Peppermint Pie

4.97 from 32 votes

This cool, creamy, homemade peppermint pie is the perfect irresistible holiday dessert!

Prep Time 10

Total Time 2 10

Servings

Print Recipe Pin Recipe Review Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup heavy cream
1½ cup powdered sugar
16 ounces cream cheese, softened (two 8-ounce packages)
10 drops red food coloring
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
½ cup peppermint candy canes or mints crushed
2 Oreo pie crusts
16 ounces Cool Whip
Crushed peppermint candy, for decoration

Instructions

In a large bowl whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside
In a medium bowl cream together the powdered sugar and cream cheese.
Add the food coloring, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese/powdered sugar bowl and mix until a uniform color.
Mix in the ½ cup of peppermint candy bits with the cream cheese/powdered sugar.
Add the powdered sugar/cream cheese mixture to the bowl of heavy whipping cream and mix together on low speed until combined.
Pour half of the filling mixture into each of the Oreo crusts.
Top pie with Cool Whip and crushed peppermint. Chill for 1 to 2 hours or until ready to serve.

Video

Notes

A ready-to-go Oreo crust serves as our base in this simple recipe. I prefer picking mine up at the grocery store, but you could also make the chocolate cookie crust from scratch if you’d like.
Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature so that you don’t end up with lumps in your pie filling.
If you use a store-bought chocolate crumb crust that comes in a foil pie pan, we’d suggest placing the whole thing (crust and foil pan) inside a glass pie plate to help with stability.

Nutrition

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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

Stephanie Keeping Publisher
Layne Kangas Marketing
Lexus Monroe Editorial Assistant