No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

This No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the festive flavors of peppermint with a creamy cheesecake filling, all sitting atop a crunchy Oreo crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this pie is not only easy to make but can also be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with loved ones. The addition of candy cane Hershey’s Kisses elevates this dessert, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: No baking means less mess and more time for you to relax.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of peppermint and cream cheese creates a rich and refreshing taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because—this pie fits any occasion!
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and chill overnight for optimal flavor and convenience.
• Freezable: Store leftovers in the freezer for up to two months—great for unexpected guests!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this pie a breeze. Gather your baking essentials before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Springform pan or pie plate
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform pan: Allows easy removal of the pie while keeping it intact.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Ensures smooth mixing of ingredients, especially for whipped cream and cream cheese.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients without deflating the whipped cream.

Ingredients

This no bake peppermint pie starts with an Oreo crust filled with a creamy peppermint cheesecake filling studded and topped with candy cane Hershey’s Kisses. This recipe doesn’t use any vegan gelatin, can be made ahead of time, and can even be frozen to save you even more time.

For the Crust

• 1 bag Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses (unwrapped, chopped, and divided)
• 18 Oreos (crushed)
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter (melted)

For the 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
• red food coloring (if desired)

How to Make No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Place the crushed Oreos and ¼ cup of the chopped Kisses in a medium-sized bowl. Toss together to combine.
2. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the mixture. Stir until mixed completely.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9 springform pan or an 8 or 9 pie plate.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

1. In a medium-sized bowl with a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the whipping cream until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Place the bowl in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl with a hand mixer or using the same stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth.
2. Reduce mixer speed to low; gradually add powdered sugar, then increase speed to medium-high again and beat until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and red food coloring if desired; continue beating until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Whipped Cream with Filling

1. Turn off the mixer and fold in cold whipped cream using a large spatula until no red swirls remain.
2. Add ⅔ cup of chopped Kisses into the mixture; gently mix again.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

1. Pour filling onto prepared crust; spread evenly with spatula.
2. Sprinkle remaining chopped Kisses on top.
3. Cover with foil or plastic wrap; chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

Enjoy your homemade No Bake Peppermint Pie! Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to two months—simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

How to Serve No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

This delightful No Bake Peppermint Pie is a treat perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Presentation Ideas

• Use a decorative pie dish to elevate the pie’s visual appeal.
• Top with extra whipped cream and crushed candy canes for added texture and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra creamy bite.
• Offer fresh mint leaves alongside each slice to enhance the peppermint flavor.

Drink Pairings

• Complement with a warm cup of cocoa or hot chocolate for a cozy pairing.
• Consider a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea to balance the sweetness.

How to Perfect No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

Achieving the ideal No Bake Peppermint Pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you perfect this recipe.

• Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
• Chill the crust: Allowing it to set in the refrigerator helps maintain its shape when adding the filling.
• Beat the cream well: Whipping the cream until stiff peaks form adds lightness and volume to your filling.
• Fold gently: When combining whipped cream with the other ingredients, fold carefully to keep air in and maintain fluffiness.
• Let it chill overnight: For best flavor and texture, refrigerate the pie overnight before serving.
• Experiment with toppings: Adding crushed cookies or chocolate shavings can enhance both taste and appearance.

Best Side Dishes for No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

Pairing your No Bake Peppermint Pie with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the pie.
2. Chocolate Mousse: This light and airy chocolate dessert pairs beautifully with peppermint flavors.
3. Ice Cream: Vanilla or mint ice cream enhances the dessert’s coolness and adds creaminess.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Small cheesecake squares provide variety without overwhelming sweetness.
5. Spiced Cookies: Gingerbread or snickerdoodle cookies add a festive touch and contrast nicely with peppermint.
6. Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake offers warmth and a subtle sweetness that complements the pie well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a no bake peppermint pie can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an unbalanced filling. Always use precise amounts for the best results.
• Bold neglecting chilling time: Skipping the chilling period can result in a pie that doesn’t set properly. Be sure to chill it for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal texture.
• Bold overmixing the cream: Overwhipping the cream can create a grainy texture. Stop mixing as soon as stiff peaks form for a smooth filling.
• Bold using cold ingredients: Using cold cream cheese can make it hard to blend smoothly. Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.
• Bold forgetting toppings: Neglecting to add extra chopped Kisses on top may leave your pie looking plain. Always finish with a sprinkle for added visual appeal and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe

• Oven: This pie is best served cold; however, if you prefer it slightly warmed, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: For quick warming, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently without melting the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe.

Can I make No Bake Peppermint Pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to chill it properly after preparation.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version of this recipe.

How do I prevent my crust from becoming soggy?

Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pan and allow it to chill properly before adding the filling.

Can I use other types of candy?

Absolutely! You can replace Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses with any other chocolate or candy that you prefer.

Final Thoughts

This No Bake Peppermint Pie Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. With its creamy peppermint filling and crunchy Oreo crust, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different toppings or flavors to suit your taste!