Candy Cane Pie, a delightful and festive dessert, has become a staple in holiday baking. Its unique blend of peppermint and chocolate, nestled in a crunchy Oreo crust, makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. This article provides a comprehensive guide to creating the perfect Candy Cane Pie, ensuring your holiday gatherings are both delicious and memorable.
Ingredients and Equipment
To begin, gather the following ingredients and equipment:
- Ingredients:
- Oreo Cookies
- Butter
- Granulated Sugar
- Large Eggs
- Bittersweet Baking Chocolate
- Pure Vanilla Extract
- Heavy Whipping Cream
- Cream Cheese
- Powdered Sugar
- Peppermint Extract
- Candy Canes
- Marshmallows
- Milk
- Mini Red & Green Chocolate Chips
- Equipment:
- Electric Mixer
- Measuring Cups
- Bowls
- Pie Pan
- Spatula
- Whisk
For the pie pan, I highly recommend the Pyrex Easy Grab Glass 9.5 Inch Pie Plate (2-Pack), ideal for this recipe.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Oreo Pie Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Finely crush about 24 Oreos.
- Melt the butter and combine with the Oreo crumbs.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake the crust for 12 minutes.
French Silk Base
- Whisk eggs and sugar in a saucepan.
- Cook over low heat until it reaches 160°F.
- Melt the chocolate and mix with vanilla and the egg/sugar mixture.
- Beat butter until fluffy, then add the chocolate mixture.
- Whip the cream to stiff peaks and fold into the chocolate mixture.
- Pour onto the pie crust and refrigerate.
Pie Filling
- Whip heavy cream to soft peaks, add sugar and peppermint extract.
- Beat cream cheese and butter, then add powdered sugar.
- Cook marshmallows with milk until dissolved, then cool.
- Combine marshmallow mixture with cream cheese.
- Fold in whipped cream, candy canes, and chocolate chips.
- Add the filling to the crust and chill.
For an alternative take on the crust, consider the Anchor Hocking Fire-King 9-Inch Pie Baking Dish, 1.75″ Deep, which offers a deeper dish for more filling.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Candy Cane Pie is versatile. Here are some variations:
- Use semi-sweet chocolate chips as a substitute for bittersweet chocolate.
- For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free Oreos.
- Vegan alternatives can be used for dairy and egg ingredients.
When serving, consider:
- Garnishing with extra crushed candy canes.
- Adding a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Serving chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Health and Nutrition
While Candy Cane Pie is a treat, being mindful of its nutritional content is important. It’s rich in calories, primarily from sugar and fat. Enjoy it in moderation, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Candy Cane Pie ahead of time? Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- How long does Candy Cane Pie last? It typically lasts up to 3 days when refrigerated properly.
- Can I freeze Candy Cane Pie? Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month.
Conclusion
Candy Cane Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a festive celebration on a plate. Its perfect balance of peppermint and chocolate, combined with the crunchy Oreo crust, makes it a holiday favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this for the first time, this guide ensures your Candy Cane Pie will be a delightful addition to your holiday treats.
Remember, the key to a great pie starts with the right equipment. Don’t forget to check out the recommended pie plates for the best results. Happy baking!