The first snow always makes me crave something cool and sweet. The smell of peppermint fills the kitchen, and suddenly it feels like Christmas even before the tree is up. This peppermint pie takes that cozy magic and turns it into a chilled, creamy dessert that sparkles on any holiday table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Pie
You’ll love this peppermint pie because it’s festive, simple, and quick to make. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, you can save precious oven space for cookies and roasts. The creamy texture and minty flavor blend perfectly, creating a dessert that feels light yet indulgent. It’s pretty enough for a party but easy enough for a weeknight treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather everything before you start. It makes the process smooth and fun.
Main Ingredients
- Chocolate Oreo pie crust: Adds a crunchy, chocolatey base.
- White chocolate instant pudding mix: Forms the creamy body of the filling.
- Milk: Brings everything together smoothly.
- Peppermint extract: Gives that signature holiday flavor (use peppermint, not mint).
- Whipped topping: Makes the pie fluffy and light.
- Candy canes or peppermint candies: Add crunch and color.
- Red food coloring: Gives the pie that cheerful pink holiday hue.
Optional Garnishes
Crushed candy canes, extra whipped topping swirls, or a light chocolate drizzle make lovely finishing touches.
How To Make Peppermint Pie
Step 1 – Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the pudding mixes with milk until smooth. Then add the peppermint extract and whisk again. Next, add the red food coloring and stir until the color looks even and festive.
Step 2 – Fold and Fill
Gently fold in about one cup of whipped topping until creamy. If the color looks pale, add a touch more red. Then pour the filling into the chocolate crust and smooth it out.
Step 3 – Chill and Decorate
Cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill for at least four hours. When it’s set, top it with the remaining whipped topping using a star tip or spoon. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top just before serving for a beautiful sparkle.
Expert Tips for the Perfect No-Bake Peppermint Pie
Always chill the pie long enough for the filling to set. This step helps it slice neatly. Also, clean your knife between each slice using a towel and warm water. It keeps those layers picture-perfect. Finally, crush candy canes by sealing them in a ziplock bag and gently rolling a pin over them. It’s an easy and mess-free way to get even pieces.
Storage and Make-Ahead Notes
Keep this peppermint pie refrigerated until it’s time to serve. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days. You can even make it the night before your gathering. The flavors deepen overnight, and it’s one less thing to think about on a busy day.
FAQs About Peppermint Pie
Can I use a homemade crust instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can. A homemade Oreo crust works beautifully. Just crush about 25 Oreos with ¼ cup melted butter, press into a pie plate, and chill before adding the filling.
What’s the difference between peppermint and mint extract?
Peppermint extract has a sharper, cooler taste that pairs best with chocolate and cream desserts. Mint extract leans toward spearmint, which tastes softer and less refreshing in sweet recipes.
How long does it need to set before serving?
At least four hours in the refrigerator. Overnight is even better if you want clean slices and a firm texture.
Easy No-Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe Card
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Peppermint Pie Recipe | Easy, Creamy & Festive Dessert
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy No-Bake Peppermint Pie is a creamy, minty holiday dessert. It chills to a soft slice and shines with a chocolate crust, pink filling, and candy cane crunch. Perfect for parties and cozy nights.
Ingredients
1 chocolate Oreo pie crust
2 boxes (3 oz each) white chocolate instant pudding mix
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (not mint extract)
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, divided
2 to 3 crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
Red food coloring, generous amount
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pudding mixes and milk until smooth.
2. Add peppermint extract and whisk to combine.
3. Add red food coloring and whisk until the color looks even.
4. Fold in about 1 cup whipped topping until creamy. Add more coloring if needed.
5. Pour filling into the pie crust and smooth with a spatula.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
7. Before serving, pipe remaining whipped topping around the edge with a 1M star tip.
8. Garnish with crushed candy canes just before serving.
Notes
Chill at least 4 hours for cleaner slices.
Clean the knife between cuts with warm water and a towel.
Crush candy canes in a ziplock bag using a rolling pin.
Keep the pie refrigerated. Store leftovers covered for up to 3 days.
Homemade crust option: pulse ~25 Oreos with 1/4 cup melted butter, press into a pie plate, and chill.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Easy & Decadent Christmas Desserts
- Method: No bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 39
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 34
- Fat: 2
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Trans Fat: 0.01
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0.003
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 7
More Such Recipes
If you love easy no-bake desserts, try my No-bake chocolate Oreo ice cream cake. For something colorful, these Festive red, white, and blue cheesecake bars are always a hit. Or make a batch of Easy chocolate crinkle cookies. They pair perfectly with hot cocoa.
Final Thoughts
This easy peppermint pie brings the joy of Christmas into every bite. It’s creamy, cool, and full of cheerful flavor. Make it once, and it might just become your new December tradition. If you try it, share your photo or tag me on Pinterest or Facebook.