Indulge in the ultimate festive treat with this incredible No Bake Candy Cane Pie! Layers of rich JELL-O chocolate pudding, a velvety cream cheese filling, and delightful crushed peppermint candies combine to create a truly magical holiday dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Are you a devoted fan of all things peppermint during the holidays? Then you absolutely must try these Candy Cane Whoopie Pies – another festive favorite that perfectly captures the spirit of the season!

Contents

Embracing the Sweet Spirit of the Holiday Season

The air is crisp, the tree stands tall adorned with twinkling lights, and the scent of gingerbread and pine fills every room. It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year, and my heart is brimming with joy. As presents begin to arrive at the doorstep and holiday cards fill the mailbox, there’s an undeniable magic in the air. What’s not to love about this season of giving, love, and, of course, peppermint? That crisp, cool mint flavor truly screams Christmas, evoking memories of festive treats and joyful celebrations.

A Trip Down Memory Lane: The Quest for the Perfect Candy Cane Pie

My love affair with Candy Cane Pie began in childhood, rooted in cherished memories of my mother ordering from the school food fundraiser, Market Day. While their entire selection was a treat, one item stood out above all others: their exquisite Candy Cane Pie. For me, it was the absolute epitome of Christmas dessert. I vividly remember its distinct layers – a rich chocolate base, a vibrant peppermint filling, adorned with festive red and green chocolate chips, and crowned with elegant peaks of whipped cream. It was more than just a pie; it was a taste of pure holiday nostalgia.

For years, I’ve embarked on a culinary quest to perfectly recreate that magical dessert from my youth. Many attempts fell short, but this year, I am thrilled to announce that I have finally nailed it! My version captures the essence of that beloved childhood pie, offering a sensational blend of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to a winter wonderland.

While I know many holiday enthusiasts rave about Bakers Square’s Candy Cane Pie, I must confess I’ve never had the pleasure of tasting it myself, though I certainly miss their pies in general. I understand their version typically features a white chocolate center, distinguishing it from my rendition, which boasts a luscious milk chocolate base. This recipe is a homage to my personal history with the dessert, refined over time to create a truly unique and irresistible No Bake Candy Cane Pie that I am incredibly proud to share.

The Secret to Creamy Perfection: A Nod to Childhood Favorites

As I envisioned this pie, I knew the texture had to be paramount: incredibly creamy, utterly delicious, and utterly satisfying. This led my mind back to another childhood favorite my mother often made – “dirt cups.” Those simple yet delightful treats, made with JELL-O chocolate pudding, were devoured at a moment’s notice in our household. If you’re also a fan of nostalgic treats, especially with a peanut butter twist, be sure to check out our Peanut Butter Dirt Cups – they are absolutely divine!

It was this fond memory that pointed me directly to the starting point for my No Bake Candy Cane Pie: a simple box of JELL-O chocolate instant pudding. This choice not only guarantees a consistently smooth and rich chocolate layer but also taps into that comforting, homey flavor profile that makes this pie so irresistible. What makes this No Bake Candy Cane Pie truly exceptional is its remarkable simplicity. You’ll be amazed at how easily this elegant dessert comes together, making it an ideal choice for every holiday gathering and celebration this season. Trust me, it’s that good and will undoubtedly become a staple in your festive repertoire!

Essential Ingredients for Your Holiday Masterpiece

Crafting this delightful No Bake Candy Cane Pie requires just a handful of readily available ingredients, combining pantry staples with festive flavors to create a truly unforgettable dessert. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 pre-made chocolate pie crust (for ultimate convenience, or try a Peppermint Chocolate Pie Crust for extra flair – note: this may contain nuts)
1 (3.9oz) box JELL-O instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
1 cup Peppermint Mocha creamer* (adds an incredible depth of peppermint flavor)
8 oz. cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 ¼ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon clear vanilla extract (to maintain a vibrant color)
½ teaspoon peppermint extract (for that signature festive kick)
1 (8oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
¾ cup red and green chocolate chips (for a delightful crunch and festive look)
4 teaspoons cold water
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup additional powdered sugar (for the homemade whipped topping)
1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract (for the homemade whipped topping)
*Note: If peppermint mocha creamer isn’t available, you can substitute with an additional cup of milk and adjust peppermint extract to taste.

Effortless Holiday Baking: Tips for Success

One of the greatest joys of this No Bake Candy Cane Pie is its incredible ease, making it perfect for the bustling holiday season. You can confidently start with a store-bought chocolate pie crust and a box of JELL-O Chocolate Pudding. Embracing these clever shortcuts means you can dedicate more time to enjoying the festive cheer, and no one will ever suspect your secret!

My absolute secret weapon for infusing this pie with the most intense and delightful peppermint flavor is a simple swap: replacing half of the milk in the JELL-O pudding mixture with peppermint coffee creamer. This small adjustment amplifies the minty notes beautifully, creating a harmonious blend with the chocolate. If peppermint creamer isn’t on your shopping list, don’t worry! A touch of peppermint extract works wonderfully as a substitute, allowing you to customize the intensity to your liking. This thoughtful layering of flavors is what truly makes this No Bake Candy Cane Pie a holiday showstopper.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your No Bake Candy Cane Pie

Follow these simple steps to assemble your stunning No Bake Candy Cane Pie:

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the JELL-O instant pudding mix with 1 cup of cold milk and 1 cup of peppermint mocha creamer. Whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken. Place the bowl into the refrigerator for 5 minutes to allow it to set further.
Remove the chocolate pudding mixture from the refrigerator. Carefully spoon approximately 1 ½ cups of the prepared pudding into your chocolate pie crust, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Place the pie crust into the freezer for at least 2 hours to ensure the chocolate layer is completely set and firm.
While the first layer chills, prepare the creamy filling. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large bowl using a hand mixer), cream together the softened cream cheese and 1 ¼ cups of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add in ½ teaspoon of clear vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, followed by the red and green chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Once the chocolate pudding layer is firm, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture on top, creating a smooth, even layer. Return the pie to the freezer to chill for an additional 1 hour, allowing the cream cheese layer to firm up.
To prepare the gelatin for the stabilized whipped topping, pour 4 teaspoons of cold water into a small bowl. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin over the top of the water. Let it stand for 5 minutes to “bloom” or soften.
While the gelatin is blooming, place the heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of clear vanilla extract into the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment.
Once the gelatin has softened, carefully place it into the microwave for approximately 10 seconds. It should liquefy completely; stir if needed to ensure no lumps remain.
Begin beating the cream mixture on medium speed. As it starts to thicken, slowly pour in the melted gelatin while the mixer is running. Increase the speed to high and continue to beat for 2 minutes, or until stiff peaks form and the whipped cream is firm and holds its shape.
Transfer the stabilized whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 2D star tip (or your favorite decorative tip). Pipe decorative stars or swirls all along the surface of the pie, creating a beautiful and inviting topping.
Finally, generously sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces over the whipped cream. Serve your gorgeous No Bake Candy Cane Pie chilled, allowing its festive flavors to delight everyone.

This No Bake Candy Cane Pie is a harmonious symphony of chocolate, creaminess, and refreshing peppermint. Every bite is an incredibly delicious journey, truly capable of transforming your palate right into a blissful winter wonderland.

Expert Tips and Frequently Asked Questions for a Perfect No Bake Candy Cane Pie

Ensuring your No Bake Candy Cane Pie turns out perfectly every time is easy with these helpful tips and answers to common questions.

Can I make this pie ahead of time for holiday parties?
- Absolutely! This pie is a fantastic make-ahead option, which is perfect for busy holiday schedules. You can prepare and assemble the pie through step 4 (up to the point before adding the final whipped cream topping). Cover it tightly and store it in the freezer. For best results, prepare and pipe the homemade whipped cream and sprinkle the candy cane pieces just before you plan to serve it. This ensures the whipped cream remains fresh and firm.
I’m having trouble finding the red and green chocolate chips. What can I use instead?
- The original recipe was created when specific red and green chocolate chips were more widely available. While these may be harder to find now, don’t let that stop you! These chips primarily add festive color and a bit of texture. Feel free to use any type of chocolate chip you prefer – milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips work wonderfully. Many readers have successfully used Andies mint chocolate chunks, adding another layer of minty flavor that perfectly complements the pie!
Can I experiment with different types of pudding for the base?
- Yes, definitely! While chocolate pudding provides a classic and rich base, you can certainly customize this pie by substituting it with other instant pudding flavors. White chocolate pudding would offer a lighter, creamier contrast, dark chocolate pudding would enhance the richness, or even a cheesecake pudding could add an interesting tangy note. Choose your favorite to make this pie uniquely yours!
Is it acceptable to use store-bought whipped cream instead of making it from scratch?
- Absolutely! There is no shame in taking time-saving shortcuts, especially during the busy holiday season. Store-bought whipped topping (like Cool Whip) is a perfectly acceptable and delicious alternative for this recipe. If you opt for store-bought, simply fold it into the cream cheese mixture as instructed, and use it for the top layer instead of preparing the gelatin-stabilized whipped cream. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the festive season, and convenience can certainly be part of that joy!
How should I store leftover pie?
- Store any leftover No Bake Candy Cane Pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While the pie can be frozen, the whipped cream topping might lose some of its texture upon thawing.
Can I use a different type of crust?
- Certainly! While a chocolate crust complements the flavors perfectly, you could also use a graham cracker crust or even an Oreo cookie crust for a slightly different take.

🍬 MORE PEPPERMINT RECIPES TO LOVE

If you’re as smitten with peppermint as we are, explore these other delightful recipes perfect for the holiday season:

Homemade Peppermint Patty Bars (Just like your favorite candy, but even better!)

Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha Cookie Cups (Little cups of chocolate heaven, infused with festive flavors!)

Chocolate Peppermint Eggnog Cocktail (A sophisticated, festive, and boozy twist on traditional eggnog!)

No Bake Candy Cane Pie

Yield:
8 servings

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Inactive Time:
3 hours

Total Time:
3 hours 15 minutes

Layers of JELL-O chocolate pudding, creamy cream cheese filling, and crushed peppermint candies make this No Bake Candy Cane Pie the perfect, effortless holiday dessert!

Rating: 4.3/5 from 150 reviews

Ingredients

1 chocolate pie crust
1 (3.9oz) box JELL-O instant chocolate pudding
1 cup milk
1 cup Peppermint mocha creamer*
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 ¼ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (clear)
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
1 (8oz) container whipped topping
¾ cup red and green chocolate chips
4 teaspoons cold water
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (clear)
*you may just substitute more milk for the creamer

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix together JELL-O pudding mixture, milk, and creamer. Whisk for 2 minutes and place into the refrigerator to set for 5 minutes.
Remove JELL-O pudding from refrigerator and place 1 ½ cups into prepared pie crust. Spread out and place into the freezer for 2 hours to completely set.
In the bowl of your stand mixer or large bowl, cream together cream cheese and powdered sugar. Add in vanilla and peppermint extracts. Fold in whipped topping followed by the chocolate chips.
Place cream cheese mixture on top of JELL-O chocolate pudding layer and place back into the freezer to chill for 1 hour.
Place cold water into a bowl and pour gelatin over the top. Let stand for 5 minutes.
While the gelatin is sitting, in the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, place heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
Once the gelatin is set, place into microwave for 10 seconds to turn into liquid.
Turn the mixture on medium and start to beat the cream, sugar, and vanilla. Slowly pour in gelatin and beat on high for 2 minutes until stiff peaks form.
Place into a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 2D tip and pipe stars all along the surface of the pie.
Sprinkle with candy cane pieces and serve chilled.

Notes

*Yes, this can be made ahead of time. Make right through step 4. I do not recommend freezing the whipped cream on top. Whipped cream is best made right before serving.

*Place into freezer before serving. Make sure to place into refrigerator 20 minutes prior to serving. You do not want to serve a frozen pie, but this pie is best enjoyed chilled.

*Yes, you can use sugar free JELL-O pudding, nonfat milk, lower fat cream cheese, and light/fat free Cool Whip for a lighter version.

Recommended Products

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Nutrition Information:

Yield: 8
Serving Size: 8 servings

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 581
Total Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 255mg
Carbohydrates: 62g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 50g
Protein: 7g

All information and tools presented and written within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist, and any nutritional information on strawberryblondiekitchen.com should only be used as a general guideline.

Just look at how this magnificent pie is studded with delicious and festive chocolate chips! And the delicate mini candy canes on top – I simply can’t get enough of their adorable charm and perfect crunch. This No Bake Candy Cane Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a visual delight.

Serve Up Holiday Cheer: The Perfect No Bake Candy Cane Pie

Luxurious, incredibly easy, and undeniably delicious, this No Bake Candy Cane Pie is an absolute must-have for your holiday table this season. It’s the ideal dessert to bring to any gathering, whether it’s a festive family dinner or a cozy evening with friends watching Hallmark movies and sipping on warm hot cocoa. Its rich flavors and effortless preparation make it a crowd-pleaser that allows you to relax and truly soak in the holiday spirit.

‘Tis the season for good cheer, cherished company, and, of course, absolutely delightful eating! This pie embodies all the joy and comfort of the holidays in every decadent bite.

Merry Minty No-Bake Pie