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Creamy No-Bake Peppermint Squares Easy Holiday Sweet Treat Recipe

creamy no-bake peppermint squares - featured image

These creamy no-bake peppermint squares are a quick and easy holiday sweet treat combining a rich cream cheese base with peppermint and chocolate for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base (10 minutes): In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Chill in the fridge.
  2. Make the Creamy Layer (15 minutes): Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and peppermint extract and beat until combined. Whip heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.
  3. Assemble the Squares (5 minutes): Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker base and smooth the top.
  4. Add the Topping (5 minutes): Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the creamy layer. Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the peppermint candies.
  5. Chill and Set (at least 2 hours): Refrigerate the pan for at least two hours or overnight to set.
  6. Serving: Lift the slab from the pan using parchment paper and cut into 16 squares. For cleaner cuts, dip knife in hot water and wipe dry between slices.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for smooth mixing. Whip cream to soft peaks and fold gently to keep texture light. Chill at least 2 hours for best results. For cleaner cuts, dip knife in hot water between slices. Variations include gluten-free, vegan, and chocolate peppermint versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, peppermint, holiday dessert, creamy, easy, peppermint squares, Christmas, sweet treat