Description
This Ultimate Festive Peppermint Ice Cream Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for holidays and celebrations. Featuring a rich chocolate cookie crust topped with creamy peppermint ice cream, crushed peppermint candies, and a luscious whipped cream topping garnished with festive chocolate shavings, this cake combines refreshing minty flavors with decadent textures. Easy to assemble and irresistibly festive, it’s a show-stopping treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups (200g) chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreos, without filling)
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
Ice Cream Layer
- 1 ½ quarts (1.4 liters) peppermint ice cream, slightly softened
- ½ cup (50g) crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Whipped Topping
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy whipping cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Garnish
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan or pie dish to create an even crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Ice Cream Layer: Allow the peppermint ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes so it is easier to spread. Evenly spread the softened ice cream over the chilled cookie crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies or candy canes evenly over the ice cream. Freeze the cake for 3-4 hours or until the ice cream layer is completely set.
- Prepare the Whipped Topping: In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip the mixture using a hand mixer or stand mixer until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set ice cream layer, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even finish.
- Garnish: Decorate the top of the whipped cream layer with additional crushed candy canes, peppermint candies, mini chocolate chips, and/or chocolate shavings for a festive appearance. Return the cake to the freezer and chill for at least 2 hours before serving to ensure firmness.
- Serve: Before serving, remove the cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing and festive peppermint ice cream cake.
Notes
- Use a springform pan for easy cake removal.
- Ensure the peppermint ice cream is softened before spreading to avoid breaking the crust.
- For a firmer crust, press the crust mixture tightly when forming and chill well before adding the ice cream.
- This cake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the freezer.
- Swap peppermint candies for crushed candy canes for added crunch.
- For decorating, chocolate shavings add a nice contrast to the white whipped topping.
