Pin it
If you need a festive showstopper that is both creamy and cool, this Candy Cane Dessert fits the bill perfectly for holiday parties, office potlucks, or cozy evenings at home. The refreshing peppermint crunch paired with sweet vanilla layers always brings cheer to any table.
Ingredients
- Peppermint candy canes: bring holiday sparkle and minty freshness choose ones that are crisp and vibrant
- Cream cheese: gives the filling a tangy and rich body select full-fat for the creamiest texture
- White sugar and powdered sugar: add sweetness and smoothness use fresh powdered sugar for best blending
- Cool Whip: delivers lightness and stability to every layer let it thaw fully before folding in
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: imparts sweetness and thick creaminess pick a high-quality brand for better flavor
- Cold milk: ensures the pudding sets just right use whole milk for extra richness
- Oreos and melted butter: form the classic chocolate crust opt for regular Oreos and real butter
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper: keeps every slice intact and easy to serve
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Baking Dish:
- Line a 9 by 13 inch pan with parchment paper or coat it with nonstick spray to ease out neat squares later
- Crush and Measure the Candy Canes:
- Pulse the candy canes in a food processor or smash in a zip-top bag until chunky but not powdery aim for three fourths cup
- Make the Oreo Crust:
- Blitz the Oreos into fine crumbs in the food processor then combine with melted butter until it looks like wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of your pan and pop in the freezer while you mix up the layers
- Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Whip softened cream cheese with both sugars and two cups of Cool Whip using an electric mixer. Blend just until smooth and creamy so you do not overbeat. Stir in half a cup of the crushed candy canes and smooth this vibrant layer over your chilled crust. Freeze again while you mix the pudding
- Prepare the Vanilla Pudding:
- Beat instant pudding mix with cold milk for two to three minutes until it starts to set and look thick and silky. Spread gently over the firmed cream cheese layer using a clean spatula. Chill again for about ten minutes in the freezer to keep the layers crisp
- Finish with Whipped Topping and Candy Canes:
- Swirl the rest of the Cool Whip evenly across the top. Shower with the reserved crushed candy canes for that festive pop
- Chill to Perfection:
- Refrigerate at least six hours for clean slices but overnight makes the layers perfect and easy to cut
Pin it
Every time I make this my favorite part is smoothing the cream cheese layer and watching the bright candy cane bits peek through. My family always hovers in the kitchen waiting for the first taste
Storage Tips
Covered with plastic wrap and chilled in the fridge leftovers last up to five days and the texture stays lovely. For longer storage freeze individual squares on a tray then slip them into a zip-top bag so you can enjoy a slice anytime. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results
Ingredient Substitutions
If Oreos are not available try chocolate graham crackers for a similar crust. Craving a different flavor swap vanilla pudding mix for white chocolate or cheesecake pudding. If you want to skip Cool Whip you can fold in sweetened whipped cream stabilized with a touch of gelatin
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled in tidy squares with extra crushed candy canes sprinkled on top. It is lovely paired with hot cocoa or peppermint coffee for a winter afternoon snack. For an extra festive touch top each piece with a mini candy cane hooked over the side
Pin it
Candy Cane Dessert Traditions
This treat channels classic North American holiday flavors and reminds me of potlucks growing up. The pink and white layers make it perfect for Christmas as well as Valentine’s Day or even winter birthdays. You will find every generation from toddlers to grandparents asking for more
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I crush the candy canes for this dessert?
Place the candy canes in a food processor or seal in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin until they become coarse crumbs.
- → Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used but stabilize it with a little powdered sugar to keep the layers firm.
- → How long should the dessert chill before serving?
Chill at least six hours so the layers set properly. For best results, chill overnight for perfect slicing.
- → Is it necessary to use parchment paper in the pan?
Parchment paper helps with easy removal and cleaner slices, but nonstick spray is a suitable alternative if needed.
- → Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s ideal as a make-ahead treat and even improves in texture when allowed to sit in the fridge overnight.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover tightly and keep in the refrigerator. Enjoy within three days for optimum freshness and texture.