Introduction
Looking for a festive dessert that will make your holiday gatherings extra special? This Easy Christmas Peppermint Pie is just the treat you need! With its creamy filling and delightful burst of peppermint flavor, this pie captures the essence of the season in every bite. Imagine serving this beautiful pie at your holiday table, complete with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of colorful crushed peppermint candies on top. Your friends and family will love it, and trust me, it tastes even better than it looks!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Additional crushed peppermint for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. The cream should be light and fluffy!
- In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the airy goodness. You want this filling to be light and fluffy!
- Stir in the crushed peppermint candies, which will add a delightful crunch and a burst of festive flavor.
- Pour this decadent mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a nice presentation.
- Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is fully set and ready to serve.
- Just before serving, add a swirl of whipped cream on top and sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint for that perfect holiday touch.
Notes or Tips
- For a richer flavor, let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing. This will make it easier to blend.
- If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply use a gluten-free pie crust!
- Feel free to adjust the peppermint extract to your taste; if you’re a peppermint lover, you may want a touch more!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe calls for some simple yet essential techniques that will elevate your peppermint pie:
- Whipping Cream: Beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form to create a light and airy texture. Be careful not to overbeat it into stiff peaks.
- Folding: Gently fold ingredients together to maintain the volume and lightness of the whipped cream. Use a spatula to gently lift the mixtures rather than stirring vigorously.
FAQ
- Can I make this pie ahead of time? Absolutely! This pie can be made up to a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator.
- What can I use instead of peppermint extract? If you prefer, you can use mint extract for a slightly different flavor. However, be careful with the quantity, as mint extract can be more concentrated than peppermint.
Conclusion
This Easy Christmas Peppermint Pie is a delightful addition to any holiday menu, offering a sweet taste of the season that’s as festive as it is delicious. With its creamy filling and crunchy peppermint topping, it’s sure to become a new favorite at your holiday gatherings. So gather your loved ones, slice into this pie, and spread the joy of the season one delicious bite at a time!