When the holidays roll around or you simply crave a refreshing, no-bake dessert that dazzles both in flavor and presentation, this Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake is your new go-to. Combining the rich, creamy indulgence of whipped cream with the classic crunch of Oreo cookies and a pepperminty twist, it’s a showstopper that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum delight. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking to treat yourself to something sweet and minty, this icebox cake ticks all the boxes.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a celebration of texture and flavor contrast. The layers of Oreo cookies soak up the cool, fluffy peppermint cream, turning into soft, cake-like bites that melt in your mouth. The crushed peppermint candies sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and a refreshing zing that perfectly balances the sweetness. Plus, it’s a no-bake recipe, which means you can whip it up in minutes and let it chill while you get on with your day.
What makes this recipe stand out is how it effortlessly blends classic ingredients into something new and exciting. The peppermint extract adds a subtle hint of holiday cheer without overpowering the iconic Oreo flavor. And for those who love a good dessert but dread complicated baking processes, this icebox cake is a lifesaver. It’s perfect for making ahead, so it’s ready to impress whenever the craving hits.
Shopping List
- 24 Oreo cookies (regular or chocolate creme-filled)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (candy canes or peppermint hard candies work well)
Prep & Cook Tools
- Mixing bowl – for whipping the cream and mixing the filling
- Electric mixer or whisk – to whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks
- 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar-sized rectangular dish – to assemble the cake layers
- Spatula – for spreading the cream mixture evenly
- Food processor or rolling pin – to crush the peppermint candies
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
How to Prepare Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake
Step 1: Crush the Peppermint Candies
Place your peppermint hard candies or candy canes in a plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or pulse briefly in a food processor. Set aside the crushed pieces to garnish your cake later.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, whip the mixture on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. The cream should hold its shape and be light and airy.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
In your 9×13 inch dish, start by placing a single layer of Oreo cookies at the bottom. You can arrange them whole or break a few to fill gaps. Spread about a third of the whipped peppermint cream evenly over the cookies.
Step 4: Repeat Layers
Add another layer of Oreo cookies, followed by another layer of the peppermint whipped cream. Continue layering until you use all the cookies and cream, ending with a layer of cream on top.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle the top with the crushed peppermint candies for a festive look and added texture. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, slice the icebox cake into squares and serve cold. Each bite bursts with creamy peppermint goodness and the nostalgic crunch of Oreos transformed into a tender, cake-like treat.
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
- Heavy cream: Use full-fat coconut cream for a dairy-free option that whips well and pairs beautifully with peppermint flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Substitute with a natural sweetener like powdered erythritol or stevia blend for a lower-sugar dessert.
- Oreo cookies: Choose gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies if you have gluten sensitivities.
- Peppermint extract: For a milder mint flavor, reduce the amount or swap for spearmint extract.
- Crushed peppermint candies: Use finely chopped Andes mints or mint chocolate chips for a twist.
Chef’s Rationale
This recipe is designed to balance ease and elegance. The Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake requires no baking, making it accessible for all skill levels while still delivering a dessert that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The layering technique not only creates a beautiful presentation but also ensures that every bite contains the perfect harmony of creamy, crunchy, and minty elements.
- Using heavy cream whipped with powdered sugar and peppermint extract creates a fluffy, intensely flavored filling that contrasts nicely with the dense cookie layers.
- Oreos are an ideal choice because they soften just enough in the fridge to mimic cake layers without becoming mushy.
- The crushed peppermint candies add a festive crunch and decorative flair, enhancing the sensory experience.
- Chilling the cake overnight is essential for texture and flavor development, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
Once assembled and chilled, the Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors and to maintain its moisture. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and cookies may change and become less pleasant upon thawing.
For best results, slice just before serving to keep the layers intact and visually appealing. If you want to prepare this cake a day in advance, rest assured it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to marry.
Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, chilling the Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake overnight helps the cookies soften and the flavors meld, making the dessert more delicious. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract on hand?
If peppermint extract isn’t available, you can substitute with a small amount of mint extract or omit it entirely. The crushed peppermint candies on top will still provide some mint flavor.
Can I use other cookie brands instead of Oreos?
Yes, you can use any chocolate sandwich cookies that you prefer or have on hand. Just keep in mind that Oreos are slightly sweeter and creamier, which complements the peppermint cream wonderfully.
How do I prevent the whipped cream from becoming watery?
Make sure to whip the cream to stiff peaks using cold heavy cream, and add the powdered sugar gradually. Also, keep the cake refrigerated until serving to maintain the cream’s texture and prevent it from breaking down.
Keep Cooking
- Love peppermint treats? Try these Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes for a festive twist on classic cupcakes.
- If you’re in the mood for cookies, these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies are a decadent must-try.
- For a rich chocolate dessert that pairs well with peppermint flavors, check out these Hot Chocolate Brownies.
Save & Share
If you’re as smitten with this Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake as I am, don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorites and share it with friends and family. It’s the perfect festive dessert to bring to potlucks, parties, or simply to enjoy at home with a cup of hot cocoa. Tag your photos and let us know how your icebox cake turns out — sharing the joy of delicious, easy desserts is what food blogging is all about!
This icebox cake is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. The harmonious blend of mint, cream, and chocolate sandwich cookies creates a dessert experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re new to no-bake desserts or a seasoned pro, this Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake will find a cherished spot in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every cool, creamy bite!
Share on Pinterest
Peppermint Oreo Icebox Cake
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 24 cookies Oreo cookies regular or chocolate creme-filled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies candy canes or peppermint hard candies
Instructions
Preparation
- Place peppermint hard candies or candy canes in a plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or pulse briefly in a food processor. Set aside crushed pieces for garnish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Whip on medium-high speed with an electric mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form and mixture is light and airy.
- In a 9x13 inch dish, place a single layer of Oreo cookies at the bottom, arranging whole or broken to fill gaps. Spread about one-third of the whipped peppermint cream evenly over the cookies.
- Add another layer of Oreo cookies followed by another layer of whipped peppermint cream. Repeat layering until all cookies and cream are used, ending with a layer of cream on top.
- Sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candies. Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to soften cookies and meld flavors.
- Once chilled, slice the icebox cake into squares and serve cold. Enjoy the creamy peppermint flavor and soft Oreo layers.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric Mixer or Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish or similar-sized rectangular dish
- Spatula
- Food processor or rolling pin
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- Chilling overnight improves texture and flavor melding for best results.
- Use full-fat coconut cream as a dairy-free substitute that whips well.
- Substitute gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for a gluten-free version.
- Reduce peppermint extract or swap with spearmint extract for a milder mint flavor.
- Store covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days; avoid freezing to maintain texture.
