Creamy layers, festive crunch, and that unmistakable peppermint finish make Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits a holiday dessert that feels special without being fussy. Each spoonful delivers smooth cheesecake filling tucked between soft cake crumbs and a snowy sprinkle of crushed candy canes.

These parfaits are ideal when you want something elegant but easy. No slicing, no baking stress—just pretty jars filled with seasonal flavor that look as good on a dessert table as they taste.
Why You’ll Love This Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits
This dessert hits the sweet spot between indulgent and approachable. The cheesecake layer is rich yet light, the peppermint adds brightness, and the individual servings make portioning effortless. They’re perfect for holiday parties, cozy family dinners, or when you need a make-ahead dessert that still feels impressive.
Can I Make Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits Ahead of Time?
Yes, and that’s part of their charm. You can assemble these parfaits several hours in advance and keep them chilled until serving. Waiting actually helps the flavors meld together. Just add the crushed candy cane topping right before serving to keep it crisp and vibrant.
Ingredients for the Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits
Each ingredient plays a clear role in building layers of flavor and texture. Cream cheese forms the smooth, tangy base, while whipped topping lightens the filling so it stays airy. Powdered sugar sweetens without grit, and peppermint extract brings that cool holiday note. Red velvet or chocolate cake crumbs add softness and contrast, and crushed candy canes finish everything with crunch and festive flair.
How To Make the Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits
Making these parfaits is all about simple layering and balance.
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the cream cheese until completely smooth, then blend in powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Fold in the whipped topping gently so the mixture stays fluffy.
Step 2: Prep the Cake Layer
Crumble the cake into fine, soft crumbs. This layer should be light and tender so it blends easily with the creamy filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Parfaits
Spoon a layer of cake crumbs into the bottom of each jar, followed by a generous layer of cheesecake filling. Repeat the layers until the jars are full.
Step 4: Finish and Chill
Top with crushed candy canes and refrigerate until ready to serve. This short chill helps everything set beautifully.

Serving and Storing Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits
These parfaits comfortably feed 4 to 6 people, depending on jar size. Serve them well chilled for the best texture. Leftovers keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to two days. If storing, wait to add the candy cane topping until just before serving so it stays crunchy.
What to Serve With Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits?
Hot Chocolate or Peppermint Mocha
A warm drink pairs perfectly with the cool, creamy layers.
Fresh Berries
Their natural tartness balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Espresso or Strong Coffee
Ideal for cutting through the richness after a big meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream
A small scoop on the side makes this dessert extra indulgent.
Butter Cookies or Shortbread
Great for adding a little crunch alongside the soft parfait.
Want More Cheesecake Dessert Ideas?
If these Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits are your style, you might also enjoy exploring other creamy favorites like easy cheesecake cups, lemon raspberry swirl cheesecake cups, red velvet cheesecake cupcakes, cherry chocolate cheesecake, or even a hot fudge sundae brownie cheesecake for something extra decadent.
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For more daily dessert inspiration, head over to my Pinterest page at https://www.pinterest.com/noranoshrecipes/ and discover even more sweet ideas to try next.
Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, festive, and irresistibly layered, Candy Cane Cheesecake Parfaits are the ultimate no-bake holiday dessert. Smooth peppermint cheesecake filling is layered with soft cake crumbs and topped with crunchy candy canes, making this an easy recipe perfect for quick dessert ideas, holiday food ideas, and make-ahead treats.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese softened
1 cup whipped topping
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 cups red velvet cake crumbs
1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
1. Beat cream cheese until smooth
2. Mix in powdered sugar and peppermint extract
3. Fold in whipped topping gently
4. Layer cake crumbs in jars
5. Add cheesecake filling layer
6. Repeat layers until full
7. Top with crushed candy canes
8. Chill before serving
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for best results
Add candy canes just before serving
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 parfait
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
