Dessert

No-Bake Chocolate Peppermint Squares Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon December 22, 2025December 22, 2025

Introduction

No-Bake Chocolate Peppermint Squares are a festive and creamy treat perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a refreshing chocolate dessert. With layers of peppermint cream cheese and rich chocolate pudding, this dessert requires no oven time and comes together quickly in a 9×9-inch pan.

The image shows a square dessert with four visible layers on a white plate set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light golden crumb crust, followed by a pink peppermint layer with small red chunks inside it. Above that is a thick dark chocolate layer, topped by a thick white whipped cream layer sprinkled with crushed red and white peppermint pieces. In the background, there is another slice of the dessert on a white plate and some red and white candy canes scattered on the white marbled surface. Two red containers with white floral patterns are slightly out of focus behind the plates. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup finely crushed peppermint candy cane or starlight mints
2 tablespoons milk
1/3 cup sugar
1 1/4 cup whipped topping
1 package (4-serving size) instant chocolate pudding mix
1 3/4 cups milk
8 oz tub whipped topping (additional for topping)
1/4 cup coarsely chopped peppermint candy cane

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the vanilla wafer crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar together until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 9-inch pan. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the layers.
Step 2: For the peppermint layer, beat the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and silky. Add 1/3 cup sugar and the finely crushed peppermint candy; beat well. Gently fold in 1 1/4 cups whipped topping. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust in the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the chocolate layer by beating the instant chocolate pudding mix with 1 3/4 cups milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Spread the pudding over the peppermint layer. Let it set for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: Spread the remaining 8 oz tub of whipped topping evenly over the chocolate layer. Sprinkle with the coarsely chopped peppermint candy cane on top.
Step 5: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours before serving. For a special twist, freeze for 4 hours to enjoy an ice cream cake-like texture.

Tips & Variations

Use crushed starlight mints as a substitute for peppermint candy canes if you prefer a slightly different mint flavor.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for a smooth peppermint layer.
Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together well when serving.
You can double the recipe in a 9×13-inch pan for a larger crowd.

Storage

Store these squares covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If frozen, keep them in an airtight container for up to 1 week. To serve after freezing, let them soften at room temperature for about 10 minutes for the best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a square dessert with four distinct layers on a white plate, set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a crumbly beige crust. Above that is a pink peppermint layer with a slightly rough texture. Next comes a smooth and thick dark brown chocolate layer. The top layer is a fluffy white cream, sprinkled with crushed red and white peppermint pieces. In the background, another similar dessert square is slightly blurred, with some red and white candy canes and red mugs with white floral designs, adding a festive feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated or frozen as desired.

Can I use regular pudding instead of instant?

Instant pudding works best here because it sets quickly without cooking. Using regular pudding may make the layers too soft and affect the overall texture.