Candy Cane Lush is a festive, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. With layers of crunchy cookie crust, creamy peppermint cheesecake, and fluffy whipped topping, this dessert is both beautiful and delicious. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit at any holiday gathering, bringing all the fun of candy canes to your dessert table.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Peppermint Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (thawed)
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
For the Pudding Layer
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant white chocolate pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
For the Topping
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (thawed)
- Crushed candy canes (for garnish)
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form an even crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other layers.
Step 2: Make the Peppermint Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the peppermint extract and mix until combined.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping and crushed candy canes until evenly incorporated.
- Spread the peppermint cheesecake layer over the chilled crust, smoothing it out evenly. Return the dish to the refrigerator.
Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Layer
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant white chocolate pudding mix, cold milk, and peppermint extract until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the peppermint cheesecake layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the pudding to set.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping
- Once the pudding layer has set, spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top of the dessert.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes and chocolate shavings if desired.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy this festive treat!
Cooking Notes
- Crust: Make sure to press the crust firmly into the bottom of the dish to create a solid base for the dessert. You can use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs down evenly.
- Peppermint Flavor: Adjust the peppermint extract to your taste. A little goes a long way, so start with the recommended amount and add more if you want a stronger flavor.
- Chilling Time: Chilling the dessert for at least 2 hours is essential to ensure that all the layers set properly. For best results, chill overnight.
Variations
Chocolate Candy Cane Lush
- Replace the white chocolate pudding mix with instant chocolate pudding mix for a deeper chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the peppermint.
Oreo Candy Cane Lush
- Use crushed peppermint-flavored Oreo cookies for the crust to add an extra layer of peppermint flavor.
Mint Chocolate Chip Lush
- Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the peppermint cheesecake layer for a mint chocolate chip twist that adds a delightful texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Yes! Candy Cane Lush is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert will stay creamy and delicious, though the candy cane garnish may begin to dissolve over time.
Can I Use Homemade Whipped Cream Instead of Whipped Topping?
Absolutely! You can use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping. Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks so it holds its shape in the layers.
Candy Cane Lush is a festive, creamy dessert that’s perfect for spreading holiday cheer. With its layers of crunchy cookie crust, peppermint cheesecake, and smooth pudding, it’s a treat that will bring smiles to everyone at your holiday table. Customize it with your favorite variations, and enjoy the festive flavors of this easy, no-bake dessert.
Happy holidays, and enjoy every sweet, pepperminty bite of this Candy Cane Lush!
