Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Crust: In a food processor, pulse the whole chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs. Drizzle in the melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pinched.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Use the bottom of a flat cup or measuring cup to compact it well. Place the crust in the freezer to set.
- Start the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the 1 1/2 cups of cold heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Transfer this whipped cream to a separate bowl and set aside.
- Make the Mint Base: In the same large bowl (no need to wash), beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of powdered sugar together until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Beat the crème de menthe, crème de cacao, peppermint extract, and optional green food coloring into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Combine: Gently fold about one-third of the reserved whipped cream into the mint cream cheese mixture to lighten it. Then, carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
- Chill: Remove the crust from the freezer. Spoon the filling into the crust and smooth the top. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.
- Make Topping & Serve: Just before serving, beat the remaining 1 cup of cold heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until medium-stiff peaks form. Pipe or dollop the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh mint sprigs.
Notes
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the liqueurs with 1/4 cup whole milk mixed with 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract and an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar. Ensure all ingredients (cream, bowl, beaters) are very cold for best whipping results. The cream cheese must be fully softened to avoid lumps. The long chill time (6+ hours) is essential for the pie to set properly for clean slicing. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
