Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was walking through a winter wonderland of twinkling lights and festive scents, a thought struck me: what could be better than celebrating the season with a Candy Cane Pie? This delightful no-bake peppermint dessert is an absolute showstopper, perfect for any holiday gathering. With its cool and creamy peppermint marshmallow filling nestled in a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, this treat combines minimal prep time with high impact—a true win for busy home chefs. Not only is this festive pie visually stunning with its soft pink hue, but it also brings a burst of refreshing peppermint flavor that evokes the magic of Christmas. So, are you ready to bring a touch of winter whimsy to your dessert table? Why Is This Candy Cane Pie Special? No-Bake Convenience: Say goodbye to oven stress! This pie is incredibly simple to prepare, allowing you to whip it up in no time. Festive Flavor: The minty freshness of peppermint extract mixed with creamy filling creates a delightful taste that amplifies your holiday spirit. Stunning Presentation: With its pink hue and crushed candy cane topping, this pie is a showstopper that will impress family and friends. Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? Try adding layers of chocolate ganache for an extra touch, or switch to a graham cracker crust for a different texture. For more festive ideas, check out my delicious Smores Hand Pies! Crowd-Pleaser: This Candy Cane Pie is sure to be a favorite at your holiday gatherings, leaving everyone asking for seconds (or thirds)! Candy Cane Pie Ingredients • Everything you need for this festive delight! For the Crust Oreo Cookies – The base crust; feel free to use any chocolate sandwich cookies as a tasty substitute. Butter (Melted) – Binds the crust ingredients together; margarine works well in a pinch. For the Filling Mini Marshmallows – Creates the filling’s fluffy texture; substitute with regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces if needed. Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds creaminess and richness; use coconut cream for a delicious dairy-free alternative. Peppermint Extract – Essential for achieving that signature peppermint flavor; adjust the amount for milder taste preferences. Red Gel Food Coloring – Optional to enhance visual appeal; any food coloring can be used for a personalized touch. Cool Whip (Thawed) – Provides fluffiness to the filling; for a homemade option, you can use whipped heavy cream. For Garnish Peppermint Candy Canes (Crushed) – Adds festive flair and texture; any crushed mint candy will do if peppermints are not available. With these ingredients, you’re one step closer to crafting a captivating Candy Cane Pie that is sure to brighten up your holiday celebrations! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Pie Step 1: Prepare the Crust Start by greasing a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray. In a food processor, pulse the Oreo cookies until they resemble fine crumbs, then combine them with the melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is well combined, and then firmly press it into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate. Freeze the crust for 20 minutes to set. Step 2: Make the Filling In a medium saucepan, combine the mini marshmallows and heavy whipping cream over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes until the marshmallows melt completely and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the filling cool slightly before moving on to the next step, ensuring you don’t rush this crucial cooling period. Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients Once the filling has cooled, stir in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red gel food coloring for a festive touch. Gently fold in half of the thawed Cool Whip until the mixture is well blended and fluffy, with a light pink hue that matches the season. This step is vital for achieving the airy texture of the Candy Cane Pie filling. Step 4: Assemble the Pie Carefully pour the peppermint mixture into the chilled Oreo crust, smoothing the top with a rubber spatula for a polished finish. Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the peppermint filling, creating a beautiful layer that will contrast with the crust. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing it to set and firm up. Step 5: Serve When you’re ready to enjoy your Candy Cane Pie, take it from the refrigerator and garnish the top with crushed peppermint candy canes for a delightful crunch. Slice into this cool, creamy treat and serve each piece with a smile, making sure to savor the minty freshness that embodies the spirit of the holidays! How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Pie Fridge: Store your Candy Cane Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and maintains its creamy texture. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply transfer the pie to the refrigerator for several hours to thaw before serving. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this delicious no-bake pie—just slice and serve straight from the fridge! What to Serve with Candy Cane Pie Looking to create an unforgettable holiday feast? Pair this minty delight with these wonderful additions for a complete spread. Hot Chocolate: A steaming cup enhances the pie’s festive spirit while balancing its coolness with warmth, making for a cozy treat. Coffee: The rich taste of coffee contrasts beautifully with the pie’s sweet, creamy filling, perfect for a delightful dessert coffee break. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring a juicy, fruity element that complements the minty flavors, adding a refreshing layer to your dessert table. Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop on each slice adds an extra layer of creaminess that harmonizes with the pie’s cool, fluffy filling. Peppermint Bark: These crunchy, chocolatey treats echo the candy flavors and are a festive snack to nibble on while enjoying dessert. Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warmed beside the pie; its aromatic spices elevate the holiday feel and balance the sweetness of the dessert. Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced, crunchy texture of these treats offers a delightful companion, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of your holiday gathering. Pecan Pie: For those who love a classic, the nutty richness of pecan pie adds depth to your dessert spread, catering to various tastes. Pumpkin Pie: Keeping in line with the season, this iconic dessert brings warm spices that beautifully contrast with the minty Candy Cane Pie. Expert Tips for Candy Cane Pie • Cooling Time: Allow the melted marshmallow mixture to cool sufficiently before adding other ingredients to ensure a smooth filling. • Press the Crust Firmly: Make sure to press the Oreo crust mixture firmly into the pie plate; this helps prevent it from cracking when slicing. • Adjust Peppermint Flavor: Start with a smaller amount of peppermint extract and add more to taste, so the Candy Cane Pie isn’t overly minty for guests. • Use Homemade Whipped Cream: For a fresher taste, consider making your own whipped cream instead of using Cool Whip; it elevates the dessert’s flavor! • Garnish Just Before Serving: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes on the pie right before presenting it to maintain their crunchiness and vibrant look. Make Ahead Options These Candy Cane Pie delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Oreo crust up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and keeping it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The fluffy filling can also be made ahead; simply mix the mini marshmallows with the heavy cream, allow it to cool, then combine with peppermint extract and half of the Cool Whip. Store this filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days before assembling. To maintain the pie’s quality, avoid garnishing with crushed candy canes until just before serving, ensuring they stay crunchy. When it’s time to enjoy, assemble the pie and refrigerate it for at least 6 hours, or overnight for optimal setting. Candy Cane Pie Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and customize your Candy Cane Pie to suit your taste buds! Graham Cracker Crust: Swap out the Oreo crust for a graham cracker crust for a lighter flavor. This creates a beautiful contrast with the creamy filling. Chocolate Ganache Layer: Add a layer of rich chocolate ganache beneath the filling. This twist enhances the flavor profile, bringing a delightful richness to your dessert. Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a dairy-free option. It gives a deliciously tropical twist while maintaining the creaminess you love. Less Sweet: For a less sweet pie, decrease the number of mini marshmallows and balance them with a bit more peppermint extract. Adjusting the sweetness ensures everyone can enjoy a slice. Minty Variations: Mix in crushed mint candies or mint chips into the filling for an additional pop of minty flavor and texture. This elevates the freshness even more! Fruit Infusion: Incorporate a layer of crushed berries (like raspberries or strawberries) under the filling for a fruity twist. This addition not only brings color but also a refreshing tartness to balance the sweetness. Healthier Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for the Cool Whip to increase the nutritional value while keeping that luscious texture. It also adds some tanginess that’s surprisingly delicious! Festive Sprinkles: Instead of crushed peppermint candy canes, use festive holiday sprinkles for a fun, glittery finish. This can be a great option if you want to tone down the peppermint flavor. For more festive treats, don’t forget to check out my delightful Smores Hand Pies for another sweet addition to your holiday gatherings! Candy Cane Pie Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right minty flavor for my Candy Cane Pie? Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for quality brands with natural ingredients for the best flavor. If you’re unsure, start with a small amount, around half a teaspoon, and gradually add more until you achieve the perfect minty taste that suits your palate. How should I store my Candy Cane Pie? The best way to store your Candy Cane Pie is covered in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep it from absorbing any flavors from other foods. Can I freeze my Candy Cane Pie, and how do I do it? Very! You can freeze your Candy Cane Pie for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly first in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer it to the fridge to thaw for several hours or overnight. What should I do if my filling is too runny? If you find your filling isn’t thickening as it should, it might be due to the marshmallows not melting properly. Ensure you maintain a steady heat when melting and stir continuously to avoid scorching. If it’s still runny, you can add more marshmallows (a handful at a time) back into the saucepan while heating until it reaches your desired consistency. Are there any allergy considerations I should know for this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe contains dairy (butter and heavy cream) and might contain gluten (from Oreos), so it’s important to check labels for any allergies. For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute with coconut cream and use gluten-free cookies to cater to different dietary needs. How do I ensure my pie crust isn’t too crumbly? To avoid a crumbly Oreo crust, make sure to combine the melted butter with the cookie crumbs thoroughly. Press the mixture down firmly into the pie plate, which helps the crust hold together better when you slice it. If you’re still having issues, try adding a little more melted butter to create a sturdier base! Candy Cane Pie: A Festive No-Bake Delight You’ll Love Candy Cane Pie is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a creamy peppermint filling and a crunchy Oreo crust, perfect for holiday celebrations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 6 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust24 cookies Oreo Cookies or any chocolate sandwich cookies5 tablespoons Butter (Melted) margarine works as a substituteFor the Filling2 cups Mini Marshmallows or regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream or coconut cream for dairy-free1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract adjust for milder taste1 drop Red Gel Food Coloring optional for color2 cups Cool Whip (Thawed) or homemade whipped creamFor Garnish1 cup Peppermint Candy Canes (Crushed) or any crushed mint candy Equipment Food processorMixing bowl9-inch pie plateMedium saucepanRubber spatula Method Prepare the CrustGrease a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray. Pulse the Oreo cookies in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs. Combine with melted butter and mix well. Firmly press into the bottom and sides of the pie plate. Freeze for 20 minutes to set.Make the FillingIn a medium saucepan, combine mini marshmallows and heavy whipping cream over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes until the marshmallows melt completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.Combine Filling IngredientsStir in peppermint extract and a few drops of red gel food coloring. Gently fold in half of the thawed Cool Whip until well blended and fluffy.Assemble the PiePour the peppermint mixture into the chilled Oreo crust, smoothing the top. Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the filling. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.ServeGarnish with crushed peppermint candy canes just before serving. Slice and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 2gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 20mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesChill time is essential for the pie to set properly. Adjust peppermint flavor according to preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
