No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s super easy to whip up, then you’re in the right place. This No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe is my go-to during the holidays when I want something cool, creamy, and bursting with peppermint goodness—without turning on the oven. Trust me, once you try it, this pie might just become your new favorite! Plus, it’s perfect for those last-minute get-togethers or when you want a refreshing sweet treat after a heavy meal.
Why This Recipe Works
- Effortless No-Bake Technique: You don’t need an oven, so it’s great year-round, especially when it’s too hot to bake.
- Perfect Peppermint Punch: Using Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses gives it a unique, crunchy peppermint boost that’s hard to beat.
- Rich and Creamy Filling: The blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar whips up into the creamiest, dreamiest pie filling.
- Customizable and Festive: You can add red food coloring or adjust the peppermint extract to fit your holiday vibe perfectly.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Every ingredient in this No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe plays a crucial role to balance flavor and texture. I’ve learned over time that using quality cream cheese and fresh heavy cream makes all the difference for that smooth, luscious filling. Plus, crushed Oreos give the crust a delightful chocolate crunch.

- Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses: These add not just peppermint flavor but a satisfying crunch when chopped and folded in.
- Oreos: Regular filled Oreos work best to create a rich, chocolatey crust with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Melting it and mixing with the cookies helps bind the crust perfectly without overpowering flavors.
- Heavy Cream: Whip this into stiff peaks for that fluffy texture in the filling that melts in your mouth.
- Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature, it’s the creamy base that holds everything together with that classic cheesecake vibe.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness without any graininess—perfect for a smooth texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Balances the peppermint and adds warmth to the flavor profile.
- Peppermint Extract: The star that brings the festive flavor punch, use sparingly to avoid overpowering.
- Red Food Coloring (optional): For fun peppermint swirls and a festive look, but you can absolutely skip it if you prefer natural colors.
Tweak to Your Taste
I like to play around with this No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe depending on the occasion. Sometimes I add a little extra peppermint extract for those who love a sharper mint flavor, while other times I keep it mild for kids. Don’t be shy—make it yours!
- Extra Crunch: Once, I folded in some crushed candy canes in addition to the Kisses for an added festive texture, and it was a total hit at my holiday party.
- Dairy-Free Option: I’ve swapped cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut-based alternatives before, which works pretty well if you’re adventurous.
- Chocolate Peppermint: Add mini chocolate chips into the filling for a little surprise bite with every forkful.
Step-by-Step: How I Make No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Crunchy Oreo-Peppermint Crust
First things first, crush those Oreos (I use a food processor for convenience, but a zip-top bag and rolling pin work just fine too). Then, mix the crushed Oreos with about ¼ cup of the chopped Candy Cane Kisses. Drizzle melted butter over the mix and stir to combine thoroughly. The butter helps it all stick together perfectly when you press it into your springform pan or pie plate. Press the crust evenly into the bottom and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up — this step is crucial, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Whipping the Cream to Fluffy Perfection
While the crust chills, pour your heavy cream into a chilled bowl and beat it with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape and doesn’t fall over. If you’re unsure, I have a quick tutorial (linked below) that really helped me the first time I made whipped cream from scratch. Once done, keep it in the fridge while you work on the filling.
Step 3: Mixing the Cream Cheese Filling
Next, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, beating well until silky. Inject vanilla and peppermint extracts and, if you want that classic holiday look, a few drops of red food coloring. I like to gently scrape the sides of the bowl so everything combines evenly—this little habit saves me from lumps every time.
Step 4: Folding in the Whipped Cream and Candy
Now the fun part: gently folding in that fluffy whipped cream to keep the light texture intact. Be patient here—fold, don’t stir! When the mixture looks beautifully blended, stir in two-thirds of the remaining chopped Kisses for sweet, peppermint surprises in every bite.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill Your Pie
Pour your creamy filling over the chilled crust. I use a small offset spatula to smooth it out evenly. Then sprinkle the last of the chopped Kisses on top for a pretty garnish. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and chill for at least 4 hours — best overnight if you can wait! This rest time lets everything set beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your cream cheese sit out for at least 30 minutes before mixing to avoid lumps and get the smoothest filling.
- Chill Twice: Don’t skimp on chilling the crust and pie itself—this helps the texture set perfectly so slices hold their shape.
- Folding Technique: Gently fold the whipped cream with a spatula instead of mixing vigorously to keep the filling airy and light.
- Candy Cane Crunch: Use only part of the chopped Kisses in the filling so those on top stay crunchy and keep the pie festive looking.
How to Serve No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

Garnishes
I stick with extra chopped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses on top for a colorful, crunchy finish. Sometimes I add a dollop of whipped cream and a small sprig of fresh mint for a professional-looking, seasonal touch. If you’re feeling fancy, some shaved white chocolate or a dusting of crushed candy canes also looks and tastes amazing.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs well with anything light and fresh—think a simple green salad or fruit salad to cut through the sweetness. For dinner parties, I often serve it after a heavy main like roast chicken or beef, because its cool minty flavor feels like a breath of fresh air at the end of the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
One year, I made mini versions of this no bake peppermint pie in little jars for gift-giving and party favors. They looked so cute with a ribbon and a candy cane tied on top! You could also layer the filling and crust in clear glasses for an elegant parfait presentation that’s fun for kids and adults alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pie keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days. I store mine covered tightly with plastic wrap over the top of the springform pan or pie plate to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. It tastes just as fresh three days later, promise!
Freezing
If you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, this pie freezes really well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. The texture stays creamy and delicious, though I like to add a little extra crushed Kisses right before serving after freezing for that fresh crunch.
Reheating
Since it’s a no-bake cream pie, reheating isn’t really needed or recommended—you’ll want to serve this chilled for the best texture and flavor. If frozen, just plan ahead and thaw in the fridge as described.
FAQs
-
Can I use a regular pie plate instead of a springform pan?
Absolutely! A regular 8- or 9-inch pie plate works perfectly well for this no bake peppermint pie. Just be mindful when cutting and serving, as springform pans make removing the pie a bit easier, but they’re not necessary.
-
How important is using full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream?
Using full-fat ingredients gives the pie a richer, creamier texture and fuller flavor. Low-fat or fat-free versions can alter the consistency, often resulting in a less smooth filling. I recommend sticking with full-fat for the best results.
-
Can I make this pie without peppermint extract?
You can, but it won’t have that signature peppermint kick! If you want to skip the extract, consider using extra crushed candy canes for flavor or try adding a hint of vanilla and a pinch of mint leaves to experiment. However, the peppermint extract really elevates this pie.
-
What’s the best way to crush the Candy Cane Kisses?
I find it easiest to unwrap the Kisses first and then chop them coarsely with a sharp knife on a cutting board. You want a mix of small chunks and tiny bits for texture. A food processor tends to make it too fine, which you want to avoid to keep that satisfying crunch.
-
How do I make perfect whipped cream for the filling?
Use cold heavy cream straight from the fridge and a chilled mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which usually takes 3-4 minutes. Stop as soon as the peaks hold shape to avoid overwhipping into butter. Gently fold into your cream cheese mixture for fluffy, light filling.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe has become one of those “go-to” desserts that I love sharing with friends and family because it’s simple, fun, and festive in just the right way. I think you’ll especially appreciate how it combines that creamy, dreamy texture with peppermint’s crisp bite, making every slice a little celebration. Give it a try and I promise it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation too!
Print
No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This indulgent No Bake Peppermint Pie combines a rich Oreo and Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses crust with a creamy peppermint-flavored cream cheese filling. Perfectly festive and easy to make, this dessert is a holiday favorite that requires no baking and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup crushed Oreos (about 18 Oreos, regular stuffed)
- ½ cup chopped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses, divided
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup (240mL) heavy cream
- 8 ounces (227g) full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 drops red food coloring (optional)
- ⅔ cup chopped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine crushed Oreos and ¼ cup of chopped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses. Drizzle melted butter over the mixture and stir until evenly mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or an 8 or 9 inch pie plate. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Whip the Cream: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 4 minutes. Place the whipped cream in the refrigerator to keep cold until needed.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth. Lower the speed and gradually add powdered sugar, then beat again until smooth. Add vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and red food coloring if using. Continue beating until fully combined, scraping the bowl sides as necessary.
- Combine with Whipped Cream and Kisses: Fold the cold whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula until no red swirls remain. Then fold in ⅔ cup of the chopped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses evenly throughout the filling.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and spread evenly with a spatula or offset spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses on top. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set properly.
- Store and Serve: Once set, serve chilled. Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
- Use regular Oreo cookies with the classic cream filling for best results.
- If you prefer not to use red food coloring, the pie will still be delicious without it.
- AmeriColor is a recommended brand for vibrant and reliable food coloring, but any brand will work.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For a firmer crust, press the mixture tightly and chill adequately before adding the filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10th of pie)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg

