Looking for a dessert that will absolutely steal the show at your next holiday gathering? Let me introduce you to No-Bake Candy Cane Pie, a cheerful and creamy treat that brings together the cool freshness of peppermint, the crunch of candy canes, and a luscious, dreamy pie filling—all nestled in a chocolate cookie crust. Whether you’re making it for a festive party or just to treat yourself, this pie is pure holiday magic with minimal effort!

No-Bake Candy Cane Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This No-Bake Candy Cane Pie is a lesson in simplicity: every ingredient plays a starring role in the flavor, texture, or color of the final masterpiece. Gather these essentials and you’ll be minutes away from holiday dessert bliss.

Pre-made chocolate cookie pie crust: Provides a rich, chocolatey base that perfectly complements the cool peppermint filling.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds creaminess and tang, creating that classic pie texture we all crave.
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the filling without any grittiness, dissolving smoothly into the creamy base.
Peppermint extract (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers a fresh, invigorating minty flavor that’s the heart of this pie—add more if you love a stronger mint!
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors and adds a warm, comforting note to balance the peppermint.
Whipped topping (2 cups, plus extra for garnish): Makes the filling light, airy, and irresistibly fluffy; plus, it’s perfect for decorating the top.
Crushed candy canes (1 cup, divided): Bring festive color, crunch, and that signature peppermint sparkle inside and out.
Red food coloring (optional): Just a few drops create a beautiful swirl effect for extra holiday flair.
Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish (optional): Add a touch of elegance and deepen the chocolate-mint combo.

How to Make No-Bake Candy Cane Pie

Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and an electric mixer. Beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! This step is key to ensuring your No-Bake Candy Cane Pie has the silkiest filling possible.

Step 2: Blend in Flavor and Sweetness

Add the powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract to your bowl. Mix until everything is beautifully combined and your kitchen is starting to smell like the holidays! If you adore a bold minty flavor, feel free to bump up the peppermint extract just a bit.

Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping and Candy Canes

Gently fold in the whipped topping and 3/4 cup of the crushed candy canes. Take your time here—gentle folding keeps the filling airy and light. Want to make your pie extra festive? Swirl in a few drops of red food coloring for a gorgeous peppermint ribbon effect.

Step 4: Fill the Crust

Spoon the creamy, candy cane-speckled filling into your chocolate cookie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure it’s evenly spread all the way to the edges for that picture-perfect pie look.

Step 5: Chill Until Set

Cover your No-Bake Candy Cane Pie and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you’re planning ahead. This chilling time lets all the flavors meld and gives the filling its signature sliceable texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, pile on some extra whipped topping, sprinkle with the remaining crushed candy canes, and, if you’re feeling fancy, add chocolate shavings or curls. Get ready for the oohs and ahhs—your pie is ready to shine!

How to Serve No-Bake Candy Cane Pie

Garnishes

The joy of No-Bake Candy Cane Pie is partly in the festive toppings! For a classic look, top each slice with a swirl of whipped topping, a generous sprinkle of crushed candy canes, and a flourish of chocolate curls. The combination is as beautiful as it is delicious, adding crunch, color, and a little extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Since this pie is sweet and minty, it pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, cocoa, or even peppermint tea. If you’re serving a dessert buffet, consider placing it alongside simple chocolate cookies or a light fruit salad—this allows your pie to truly stand out as the star.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your No-Bake Candy Cane Pie into individual parfaits by layering the filling and crust crumbles in clear glasses. Or, slice the pie into tiny wedges and serve them as part of a holiday dessert sampler. For a dramatic touch, dust the top with edible glitter or arrange mini candy canes in a spiral pattern.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. No-Bake Candy Cane Pie keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just note that the candy cane topping may begin to dissolve over time, so add fresh sprinkles before serving again.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this pie! Wrap the whole pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. It will keep for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. The texture stays creamy and the flavor remains vibrant, making this a fantastic make-ahead option for busy holiday schedules.

Reheating

No reheating needed—this is a truly no-bake dessert! If your pie has been frozen, just allow it to thaw in the refrigerator until soft and creamy again. Serve chilled straight from the fridge for that refreshing, cool bite.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works beautifully in No-Bake Candy Cane Pie. Just be sure to whip it to stiff peaks so the filling holds its shape, and use it in the same quantity as the whipped topping.

What’s the best way to crush candy canes?

Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and gently pound them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. You want a mix of tiny shards and some slightly larger pieces for the perfect texture and festive look.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes, just swap in a gluten-free chocolate cookie crust and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe stays exactly the same and is just as delicious!

How do I get neat slices?

For picture-perfect slices, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. Chilling the pie thoroughly also helps the filling set for cleaner slices.

Can I make No-Bake Candy Cane Pie ahead of time?

Definitely! In fact, the flavors deepen and the texture improves after a night in the fridge. Just wait to add the final candy cane garnish until right before serving for the best crunch and color.

Final Thoughts

No-Bake Candy Cane Pie is a holiday dessert that’s equal parts effortless and showstopping. If you’re looking for a treat that impresses with both looks and flavor—without ever turning on the oven—this pie has you covered. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the festive cheer with everyone at your table!

No-Bake Candy Cane Pie Recipe

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4.5 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This No-Bake Candy Cane Pie is a festive and creamy holiday treat featuring a chocolate cookie crust filled with a smooth peppermint-flavored cream cheese mixture, whipped topping, and crushed candy canes. Easy to prepare and perfect for Christmas gatherings, it combines refreshing minty flavors with a delightful texture and festive garnishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 pre-made chocolate cookie pie crust

Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups whipped topping (plus extra for garnish)
1 cup crushed candy canes, divided
Red food coloring (optional)
Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined to create a flavorful base for the filling.
Fold in whipped topping and candy canes: Gently fold in the whipped topping and 3/4 cup of the crushed candy canes into the cream cheese mixture, being careful to maintain a light and airy texture. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring and swirl lightly for a festive appearance.
Assemble the pie: Spoon the prepared filling into the pre-made chocolate cookie crust, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Refrigerate and set: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is well set and firm enough to hold its shape when sliced.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the pie with additional whipped topping, the remaining crushed candy canes, and optional chocolate shavings or curls to enhance presentation and flavor. Slice and enjoy your festive no-bake candy cane pie!

Notes

For a stronger mint flavor, increase the peppermint extract to 3/4 teaspoon.
This pie can be made 1 day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
If desired, use natural food coloring for a healthier option.
Allow the pie to chill thoroughly to ensure proper set and cleaner slices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American