Description
This Crème de Menthe Pie combines rich mint chocolate flavors with a crunchy Oreo crust and a smooth, creamy filling. Featuring a homemade Oreo crust baked to perfection, a luscious mint chocolate ganache, and a light crème de menthe-flavored cream cheese filling folded with whipped cream and chocolate pieces, this no-bake pie is chilled to set, resulting in a refreshing, indulgent dessert perfect for mint and chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Oreo Crust
- 22 whole Oreo cookies (250g; not Double Stuf)
- 4 Tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted
Mint Chocolate Ganache
- 1/2 cup (120g/ml) heavy cream
- 4 ounces (113g) bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Filling
- 1 cup (240g/ml) heavy cream, cold
- 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup (90g) confectioners’ sugar
- 3 Tablespoons (45g/ml) crème de menthe syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 ounces (56g) bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped (or mini chocolate chips)
Optional Toppings
- Homemade whipped cream
- Fresh mint leaves
- Chocolate curls or shavings
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) to prepare it for baking the Oreo crust.
- Bake the crust: In a food processor or blender, pulse all 22 Oreos including their filling until finely crumbled—this should yield about 2 packed cups or 250g of crumbs. Transfer these crumbs to a large bowl, add the melted butter, and mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into an ungreased 9-inch pie dish, shaping the crust along the sides and bottom. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then place it on a cooling rack to cool slightly.
- Prepare the mint chocolate ganache: Place the finely chopped 4 ounces of chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it starts to simmer, then pour it immediately over the chocolate. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes to melt the chocolate, add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract, and stir gently until smooth. Pour the ganache into the slightly cooled Oreo crust, spreading it evenly across the bottom and a little up the sides. Chill in the refrigerator to cool completely.
- Whip the cream: Using a hand or stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 4 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture: With the mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until totally smooth and creamy. Add confectioners’ sugar, crème de menthe syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract. Beat on medium-high until fully combined and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Fold in the whipped cream and chocolate: Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture slowly to retain airiness. Then fold in the chopped 2 ounces of chocolate pieces or mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the pie: Spread the filling evenly over the cooled crust with ganache. Smooth the top with an offset spatula for an even finish.
- Chill and set: Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or preferably up to 2 days. This refrigeration time allows the pie to set firmly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the pie with optional homemade whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, and chocolate curls if desired. Use a clean, sharp knife wiped between cuts to create neat slices.
- Store leftovers: Keep any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use regular Oreos, not Double Stuf, for the best crust texture and flavor.
- Make sure the ganache is completely cool before adding the filling to prevent melting or mixing.
- Softened cream cheese should be at room temperature to avoid lumps during mixing.
- Folding whipped cream gently into the filling preserves its light texture, yielding a fluffy pie.
- Allow plenty of chilling time so the pie sets well and slices cleanly.
- For best presentation, wipe the knife clean after each slice when serving.