When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a dessert that captures the magic of Christmas in every bite. Enter Candy Cane Pie — a seasonal showstopper that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make. With its creamy filling, crunchy crust, and refreshing minty flavor, this pie is pure nostalgia wrapped in a whimsical red-and-white swirl. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday party, Candy Cane Pie will quickly become a cherished tradition.

Candy Cane Pie


Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to try something new, this recipe is simple and fun to follow. Bonus? It doesn’t even require baking! Grab your candy canes, and let's make some holiday magic.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 24 chocolate wafer cookies (or graham crackers)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 12 candy canes, crushed (plus a few extras for garnish)
  • Red food coloring (optional)

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup whipped cream (store-bought or freshly whipped)
  • Crushed candy canes or chocolate curls for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

  1. Start by preheating your holiday spirit! Even though this is a no-bake dessert, getting into the festive mood is essential. Grab your chocolate wafer cookies (or graham crackers) and crush them into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor for ease or pop the cookies into a zip-top bag and smash them with a rolling pin.
  2. Combine the crumbs with granulated sugar in a bowl. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
  3. Transfer the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or your fingers, ensuring the crust covers both the base and sides of the dish. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppermint Filling

  1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they melt completely. Remove the pan from the heat.
  2. Stir in the peppermint extract. If you’d like a touch of festive color, add a few drops of red food coloring for a dreamy pink hue. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature.
  3. While the peppermint mixture cools, whip the heavy cream in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. (Pro tip: Keep your whisk and bowl in the freezer for 10 minutes before whipping — it makes the process smoother!)
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream and crushed candy canes into the cooled peppermint mixture. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a light, fluffy texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

  1. Pour the peppermint filling into the chilled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
  2. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld and ensures the filling sets properly.

Step 4: Decorate and Serve

  1. Before serving, top the pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
  2. Sprinkle crushed candy canes or chocolate curls on top for a festive finish. If you’re feeling extra creative, place a full candy cane in the center as a decorative touch!
  3. Slice, serve, and watch your guests light up with holiday cheer.

Tips for Serving and Customizing Candy Cane Pie

  1. For a Darker Twist
    Swap the peppermint extract for 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to create a mint mocha version of the pie. Add some shaved dark chocolate to the filling for extra indulgence.

  2. Mini Pies for Parties
    Make individual servings by using muffin tins lined with cupcake liners. Press some crust into each liner, add the filling, and garnish for the perfect grab-and-go dessert at parties.

  3. Storage
    Leftovers? Keep the pie covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re making the pie ahead of time, it also freezes beautifully for up to 1 month.

  4. Gluten-Free Option
    Use gluten-free cookies for the crust to make this recipe friendly to everyone.

Candy Cane Pie is more than just a dessert – it’s an edible celebration of the season. The minty sweetness, creamy filling, and crunchy crust combine to make a treat that tastes like holiday joy. Whether you’re curling up by the fire or hosting a cheerful family dinner, this pie is sure to bring smiles to the table. Give it a try — Christmas cheer is just a slice away!

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