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There’s just something magical about waking up on Christmas morning, grabbing a cup of cocoa, and sneaking a peppermint bar from the fridge before anyone else is up. These No Bake Peppermint Bars deliver creamy, minty delight layered with festive joy without needing to turn on the oven. The blend of crushed Oreos, peppermint extract, and white chocolate creates a smooth, cool flavor that tastes like winter in dessert form. Best of all, you can make these ahead while enjoying Christmas movies in your pajamas.
This recipe brings back cozy memories of snowy mornings and classic Christmas movies playing on repeat. I first made it during a holiday gathering and now it is always requested as part of our festive spread.
Ingredients
- Oreo cookies: Twenty four crushed into fine crumbs for a rich chocolate base
- Unsalted butter: Six tablespoons melted to bind the crust firmly
- Powdered sugar: Two cups to sweeten and smooth the filling
- Heavy cream: Two tablespoons adds creaminess and improves texture
- Peppermint extract: One teaspoon for that refreshing minty flavor
- Cream cheese: Eight ounces softened to ensure a smooth and fluffy filling
- White chocolate chips: One and a half cups melted for a luscious sweet topping
- Crushed candy canes: Half a cup to sprinkle on top for festive crunch and color
- Extra melted white chocolate: Optional for a pretty drizzle to finish
Instructions
- Make the crust:
- Mix the crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly and evenly into a parchment lined 8 by 8 inch pan to form the crust. Set aside allowing it to settle.
- Make the peppermint filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Then incorporate powdered sugar, heavy cream, and peppermint extract. Whip the mixture until it becomes thick, fluffy, and well combined.
- Spread the filling over the crust:
- Spoon the peppermint filling over the Oreo crust and gently spread it into an even layer using a rubber spatula. Take your time to ensure smoothness and even coverage.
- Melt the white chocolate:
- Microwave the white chocolate chips in short bursts of twenty seconds. Stir thoroughly between each interval until fully melted and creamy without overheating.
- Pour and spread the chocolate layer:
- Pour the melted white chocolate evenly over the peppermint filling. Use a clean spatula to spread it gently and cover the entire surface.
- Top with crushed candy canes:
- Sprinkle the crushed candy canes evenly across the soft white chocolate layer. Press lightly so they adhere well without sinking in.
- Chill the bars:
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least two hours until fully set. Remove the bars by lifting the parchment and cut into twelve neat squares.
One Christmas morning I caught my niece sneaking bars before breakfast because she loved that refreshing burst of minty sweetness so much.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. These bars freeze beautifully wrap tightly and thaw before serving to enjoy anytime during the season.
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap Oreos for chocolate graham crackers if you want a milder crust. Peppermint candies work just as well as crushed candy canes for topping and you can switch white chocolate to dark chocolate for a richer profile.
Serving suggestions
These bars pair wonderfully with hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or a peppermint mocha coffee for a festive beverage. A fresh fruit platter balances the sweetness and adds color to your holiday table.
These No Bake Peppermint Bars are the perfect sweet treat to kick off your Christmas morning with something refreshingly creamy and a little crunchy. They come together quickly look beautiful on the table and deliver a festive flavor that everyone loves.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Low-fat cream cheese can be used, though full-fat provides better structure and creaminess for the filling.
- → Is it possible to omit peppermint flavor?
Yes, vanilla or almond extract are great alternatives to peppermint for a different but delicious taste.
- → How should I crush the candy canes for topping?
Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or pulse gently in a food processor for an even texture.
- → Can I substitute white chocolate chips with bark?
Store-bought white chocolate bark melts well and can be used interchangeably with chips for the topping layer.
- → What’s the best way to get clean bars when slicing?
Chill the bars thoroughly and use parchment paper for easy removal. Warm your knife slightly before slicing for smooth edges.