Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits: A Festive No-Bake Holiday Dessert

When the holidays roll around, there’s one dessert that captures the spirit of Christmas in every spoonful Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits. These merry little jars combine layers of velvety vanilla cheesecake mousse, crushed red velvet cake (or cookies), and a shower of peppermint candy for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Each parfait is a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and cool, all tied together with the festive sparkle of crushed candy canes. They’re make-ahead, no-bake, and absolutely crowd-pleasing perfect for holiday parties, dessert tables, or even as edible gifts in jars.

Let’s unwrap the magic of these holiday parfaits that taste like Christmas cheer in a glass!

What Is Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits

Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits are a layered dessert made with a no-bake cheesecake filling, crushed red velvet cake or cookie crumbs, and crushed peppermint candy. Served in jars or glasses, these parfaits combine the creamy tang of cheesecake with the minty crunch of candy canes for a festive and indulgent treat.

They’re delightfully easy to make, require no oven time, and can be customized with different layers from chocolate cake to crushed Oreos. The peppermint twist adds that perfect holiday touch, making them a showstopper at any Christmas celebration.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

These parfaits aren’t just pretty; they’re practical and irresistible. You’ll love them because:

• No baking required! Ideal for busy holiday schedules.
• Perfectly portioned — no slicing or mess.
• Make-ahead friendly for parties and gatherings.
• Festively delicious — creamy cheesecake, fluffy cake, and peppermint crunch.
• Beautiful presentation — they look stunning on dessert tables or in gift jars.

It’s the ultimate combination of convenience, beauty, and holiday indulgence.

How Does It Taste

These parfaits taste like a holiday dream — creamy cheesecake mousse with a cool peppermint finish, balanced by sweet red velvet crumbs and a delightful crunch from candy cane pieces. The texture is luxurious yet playful: soft, airy, and just a little crisp on top.

It’s peppermint cheesecake meets trifle — light, festive, and impossible to resist.

Health and Ingredient Benefits

While these parfaits are a festive treat, they also have a few pluses:

• Cream cheese adds calcium and protein.
• Peppermint aids digestion and refreshes the palate.
• Yogurt or whipped cream in the filling lightens the texture without extra heaviness.
• Portion control — served in jars, it’s easy to enjoy a little indulgence.

They’re indulgent but balanced — the perfect holiday sweet spot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the cheesecake layer:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

For the layers:

• 2 cups crumbled red velvet cake or crushed red velvet cookies
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
• Optional: 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (for extra flavor)

For garnish:

• Whipped cream
• Extra crushed candy canes or peppermint bark pieces

Tools You’ll Need

• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Mason jars or parfait glasses
• Piping bag or spoon for layering

Optional Substitutions and Additions

• Use chocolate cake or brownie crumbs instead of red velvet.
• Add a layer of chocolate ganache or crushed Oreos.
• Mix in a touch of peppermint schnapps for an adult twist.
• Use white chocolate mousse for extra decadence.
• Swap candy canes for peppermint bark shards.

How to Make

1. Prepare cheesecake filling: Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and yogurt (or sour cream) and mix until creamy.
2. Whip cream: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the cream cheese mixture to create a light mousse texture. Add peppermint extract if using.
3. Assemble parfaits:
   • Spoon or pipe a layer of red velvet cake crumbs at the bottom of each jar.
   • Add a thick layer of cheesecake filling.
   • Sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
   • Repeat layers until jars are filled, ending with cheesecake on top.
4. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
5. Decorate: Just before serving, top with whipped cream and more crushed candy canes.

What to Serve With

• A mug of hot chocolate or peppermint mocha.
• A cup of coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness.
• Sparkling wine or eggnog for festive flair.

These parfaits also pair beautifully with a cookie tray or Christmas brunch spread.

Why It’s Perfect for the Holidays

This dessert checks every holiday box: it’s easy, gorgeous, and full of Christmas flavor. The red and white layers look stunning on any table, while the peppermint crunch brings nostalgic cheer. Plus, it’s a no-bake recipe — which means you can focus on family time instead of oven juggling.

Tips for Success

• Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling.
• Chill before serving to allow flavors to meld.
• Crush candy canes just before using — they can get sticky if left out.
• Layer carefully for clean, distinct colors.
• Serve in clear jars or glasses to showcase the beautiful layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the whipped cream — it can deflate the mousse.
• Adding candy too early — crushed candy can melt if mixed into the cheesecake.
• Skipping the chill time — the parfaits need at least an hour to set.
• Using full-strength peppermint extract — too much can overpower the flavor.

How to Store and Reheat

Store parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add whipped cream and candy toppings right before serving. Do not freeze — the candy canes will lose their crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and top with candy canes just before serving.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer — full-fat yields a creamier filling.

Can I make them in one big dish instead of jars?
Absolutely! Layer everything in a trifle bowl for a stunning holiday centerpiece.

Can I make this without cake?
Yes — use crushed graham crackers or Oreo crumbs instead.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 6g
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Sugar: 27g
Sodium: 160mg

Conclusion

These Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits are everything we love about the holidays — sweet, creamy, and bursting with peppermint cheer. Each jar is a layered masterpiece of flavor and color, making it the perfect festive dessert for sharing with friends and family.

Whether you’re gifting them in jars, serving them at a party, or enjoying one by the fireplace, these parfaits are a merry little moment of joy in every bite. Easy, elegant, and irresistibly Christmas they’re destined to become your new holiday tradition.

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October 8, 2025 by Melissa