Get ready to wow your friends and family with this utterly show-stopping Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe. It’s a no-bake, dreamy combination of a crunchy cookie crust, cool peppermint ice cream, and a cloud of whipped topping showered in festive crushed candies—perfect for any celebration! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just channeling winter magic in your kitchen, this dessert pulls together familiar flavors in a frostily delicious way. Plus, you won’t believe how simple it is to make, yet every bite is packed with creamy, chocolatey, and minty cheer.

Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are as straightforward as they are game-changing, each one playing a unique role in creating the color, flavor, and mind-blowing texure of the Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe. Gather everything ahead of time and you’ll be moments away from dessert bliss!

Chocolate sandwich cookies (14.3 oz, crushed): These cookies build the deep, chocolatey foundation that holds the cake together and contrasts beautifully with the peppermint flavors.
Unsalted butter (1/3 cup, melted): The magic ingredient that binds the cookie crumbs for a buttery, cohesive crust.
Peppermint ice cream (1.5 quarts, softened): Creamy, slightly sweet, and packed with minty freshness—this is the star of your dessert!
Whipped topping (8 oz, thawed): It brings a light, fluffy finish and makes the cake look like a winter wonderland.
Peppermint extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who adore an extra peppermint punch, this little bit takes the flavor up a notch.
Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (1/2 cup): These add irresistible crunch and festive color on top of every slice.
Chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce (optional for drizzling): A drizzle takes it straight into decadent territory, balancing out the refreshing mint.
Extra whipped cream and whole peppermints (optional for garnish): For an eye-catching final flourish that turns heads on the dessert table!

How to Make Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Start by greasing the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or lining it with parchment paper. This simple step ensures a smooth release later, so your stunning Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe pops right out—no tears, no crumbs, just clean edges and smiles all around.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust

In a medium bowl, stir the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies together with the melted butter until they resemble wet sand. Pour this mixture into your pan and press it down evenly—use the flat bottom of a glass for precision! Pop the crust into the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up, giving you that signature snap when the cake is sliced.

Step 3: Layer on the Peppermint Ice Cream

Scoop the softened peppermint ice cream onto the chilled crust, spreading it out in an even layer. Don’t rush here—smooth the top for a polished finish. Once the ice cream is settled, return the pan to the freezer for at least one hour until the layer is nice and firm.

Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping

Mix the thawed whipped topping with peppermint extract if you’re looking for a little extra zip. Spread this over the frozen ice cream layer, ensuring every edge is covered in pillowy, snow-white cream. This is where your Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe starts looking irresistibly luxurious.

Step 5: Garnish and Freeze Again

Generously sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candies and gently press them in to secure. Cover the cake loosely with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for at least two more hours, or until fully set. This waiting period may feel endless, but trust me—it’s so worth it!

Step 6: Finishing Touches and Serving

Right before serving, release the cake from the springform pan. For maximum festivity, drizzle with chocolate syrup and crown with extra whipped cream dollops and whole peppermints. Then, just slice and serve immediately—watch it disappear in minutes!

How to Serve Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Amp up the charm and texture by topping your Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe with extra swirls of whipped cream, a scattering of whole or crushed peppermints, and a glossy drizzle of chocolate sauce. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or winter sprinkles adds another playful touch for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Keep things festive with simple accompaniments: hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or coffee makes for a delicious (and cozy) partnership. If you want to balance the rich flavors, try a platter of fresh berries or tangy fruit salad on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try individual mini cakes using muffin tins for party-ready desserts, or serve the Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe on a slate platter with candy-cane stripes drawn from melted chocolate. For gatherings, slice ahead of time and plate with tiny festive flags or a scattering of edible confetti.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover slices (if you’re lucky enough to have any!), transfer them to an airtight container and return straight to the freezer. This keeps the Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe fresh and prevents it from picking up any mystery freezer flavors.

Freezing

The beauty of this cake is its make-ahead potential! It can be frozen up to one week before your event—just cover tightly in foil or plastic wrap to guard against freezer burn. For best texture, wait to add decorative garnishes until right before serving.

Reheating

No reheating required! Simply remove the cake from the freezer about 10 minutes before serving, which makes slicing easy while ensuring your Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe stays perfectly frosty and firm.

FAQs

Can I use another flavor of ice cream if I can’t find peppermint?

Absolutely! Vanilla or chocolate ice cream swirled with crushed peppermint candies will deliver the same festive flavor. Feel free to get creative with other minty or holiday-inspired flavors too.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

No worries—a regular 9-inch round cake pan lined with parchment works well. To serve, simply lift the cake out by the parchment edges once it’s fully frozen for simple, mess-free removal.

Can I make the Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap in your favorite dairy-free ice cream and whipped topping. Plenty of nondairy peppermint ice cream options exist, so everyone can enjoy a slice.

How do I crush the peppermint candies without making a mess?

Place the unwrapped candies or candy canes in a zip-top bag and gently pound them with a rolling pin or heavy pan. Aim for chunky bits rather than powder for maximum crunch and visual impact.

What’s the best way to slice the frozen cake?

Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and slice. This melts through each layer easily, giving you neat, restaurant-worthy servings of your Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a festive showstopper that combines fun, flavor, and a bit of nostalgia, give this Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe a whirl. Every bite feels like a celebration—so gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and make memories over the coolest cake of the season!

Peppermint Ice Cream Cake Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the refreshing and festive flavors of a Peppermint Ice Cream Cake. This no-bake dessert is perfect for the holidays, featuring layers of crushed chocolate cookies, creamy peppermint ice cream, whipped topping, and a hint of peppermint extract.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed)
1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling:

1.5 quarts peppermint ice cream (softened)
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (thawed)
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Chocolate syrup or hot fudge sauce (optional for drizzling)
Extra whipped cream and whole peppermints (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Grease the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper. Mix crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter and press into the pan.
Layer the Ice Cream: Spread softened peppermint ice cream over the crust and freeze.
Add Toppings: Mix whipped topping with peppermint extract, spread over the ice cream, and sprinkle with crushed candies. Freeze until set.
Serve: Remove the cake from the pan, drizzle with chocolate syrup, add garnishes, slice, and serve.

Notes

You can use alternative ice cream flavors swirled with crushed peppermint.
For a richer version, include a layer of hot fudge between the crust and ice cream.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Freezing
Cuisine: American