Delicious & Low-Point Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie: Your Perfect Holiday Dessert
Embrace the festive spirit with a dessert that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly light: this Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie. Boasting only 6 WW points per serving, it’s the ultimate guilt-free treat to enjoy throughout the holiday season. There’s an undeniable magic that peppermint brings to this time of year, from your favorite hot chocolate to festive candies. If you’re a connoisseur of all things peppermint, this creamy, minty pie with its rich chocolate cookie crust is destined to become a new holiday tradition in your home. Forget the usual graham cracker crust; our recipe elevates the experience with a unique zero-sugar chocolate cookie crust, a clever swap that significantly contributes to keeping the Weight Watchers points remarkably low.
The star of this pie is its perfectly balanced filling, a harmonious blend of refreshing peppermint and luxurious creaminess. Crafted with nonfat milk, Greek yogurt, and fat-free whipped topping, it achieves a delightful texture without the added calories or fat of traditional pies. You have the creative freedom to personalize your pie: keep the filling a pristine white for an elegant look, or add a touch of red food dye to create a charming pink hue that’s synonymous with holiday cheer. Both presentations are equally appealing and festive. Every ingredient in this recipe has been thoughtfully selected and modified to ensure it remains Weight Watchers friendly, proving that you don’t have to compromise on flavor to enjoy a healthier dessert.
These small yet impactful changes are the secret behind this pie’s lower point value. As mentioned, the crust is lightened, but the filling truly shines in its health-conscious design. The use of nonfat plain Greek yogurt not only adds a lovely tang and body but also boosts protein content, while fat-free milk and fat-free whipped topping further reduce the calorie and fat count. Without these smart substitutions, a pie of this indulgence would easily carry a much higher WW point value. Yet, rest assured, these modifications do not diminish the pie’s incredible flavor or its silky-smooth texture. This delightful, light peppermint pie is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings and will quickly earn a spot among your most cherished holiday dessert recipes! For more lightened-up sweet treats, be sure to explore my comprehensive dessert recipe collection here.
Why This Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie is a Must-Make
- Effortless Make-Ahead Dessert: The holiday season can be hectic, and this peppermint pie understands that. It requires ample time to chill and set, making it the quintessential make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day or even two in advance, freeing up valuable time on your celebration day. Simply pull it from the refrigerator when you’re ready to serve, and enjoy the convenience of a delicious, pre-prepared treat. This also allows the vibrant peppermint flavor to fully develop and meld with the creamy filling, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Satisfyingly Light and Refreshing: Unlike many rich and heavy holiday desserts that can leave you feeling overly full, this peppermint pie offers a wonderfully light and refreshing alternative. Its airy texture and cool peppermint flavor provide a delightful palate cleanser after a hearty meal, satisfying your sweet tooth without weighing you down. It’s the perfect end to any festive gathering, leaving you feeling content and refreshed rather than sluggish. It’s a dessert that truly embodies balance, allowing you to indulge without guilt.
- Surprisingly Low-Effort Preparation: Don’t let the impressive presentation fool you; this pie is remarkably simple to make. The process is streamlined for maximum ease. You can prepare the creamy peppermint filling while the chocolate cookie crust cools, minimizing active kitchen time. The most challenging aspect of this recipe isn’t the cooking, but rather the waiting – first for the crust to cool completely, and then for the assembled pie to set in the refrigerator. This hands-off setting time allows you to focus on other holiday preparations or simply relax, knowing a delightful dessert is in the making.
Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie: Recipe Overview
Get ready to whip up this delightful holiday pie! Here’s a quick glance at the essential details for planning your Weight Watchers friendly peppermint dessert:
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 129g)
- Number of Servings: This recipe yields 8 generous slices, perfect for sharing.
- Active Cook Time: Only about 15 minutes of hands-on cooking.
- WW Points Per Serving: Each satisfying slice is just 6 WW points. The entire pie totals 51 WW points, making it an excellent choice for managing your daily points budget during the festive season. (Click here to view the recipe in the Weight Watchers app. A WW login is required to access this link.)
Key Ingredients for Your Low-Point Peppermint Pie
Crafting this Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie involves a few specific ingredients chosen for their flavor and low-point contribution. Here’s what you’ll need to create this holiday masterpiece, along with brief notes on why these choices are important:
- 2 – 3 tbsp Light butter substitute, melted: Used for the crust, a light butter substitute helps bind the cookie crumbs while keeping the fat content and WW points lower than traditional butter. Adjust the amount as needed to achieve the perfect wet sand consistency.
- 6.5 oz Sugar-free chocolate cookie crumbs, ground: This is the foundation of our unique, low-point chocolate crust. Using zero-sugar cookies (such as Voortman Bakery Zero Sugar varieties) is crucial for controlling the sugar content and overall WW points, while still delivering a rich chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the peppermint.
- 2 cups Fat-free milk: The base for our creamy pudding filling. Fat-free milk helps the pudding thicken properly without adding unnecessary fat, keeping the pie light and delicious.
- 2 packages (1 oz each) Sugar-free, low-calorie white chocolate pudding mix (or vanilla): This instant pudding mix provides the essential structure and creaminess for the filling. White chocolate offers a neutral color and a subtle flavor that won’t overpower the peppermint, but vanilla can also be used if preferred, though it may give the pie a slightly yellowish tint. Ensure it’s sugar-free and low-calorie for WW friendliness.
- 1 cup Nonfat plain Greek yogurt: A fantastic addition that enhances the creamy texture of the filling while boosting protein and reducing fat. Its slight tang also adds a pleasant depth of flavor that balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup Fat-free whipped topping: Folded into the filling, fat-free whipped topping creates an incredibly light and airy consistency, making the pie wonderfully fluffy and enjoyable without extra points.
- ¼ – ½ tsp (to taste) Peppermint extract: This is where the signature holiday flavor comes from! It’s essential to use pure peppermint extract, not mint extract, as mint extract can have a different, sometimes toothpaste-like, flavor profile. Start with a quarter teaspoon and add more to your liking for that perfect cool, refreshing kick.
- Red food dye, optional: For those who desire a festive pink filling, a few drops of red food dye can be added. It’s purely for aesthetic appeal and doesn’t affect the taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Your Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie
Follow these simple instructions to create your amazing, low-point peppermint pie:
- Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust: Begin by combining the melted light butter substitute with the finely ground zero-sugar chocolate cookie crumbs in a medium bowl. Start with 2 tablespoons of butter substitute. Mix thoroughly, and if the mixture seems too dry or crumbly, add an additional ½ tablespoon to 1 tablespoon of butter substitute, a little at a time, until it reaches the consistency of wet sand. When you press a small amount between your fingers, it should hold its shape without crumbling excessively. This ensures a firm crust.
- Bake and Cool the Crust: Firmly press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a greased 9 or 9.5-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or your knuckles to compact it well. Bake the crust in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it looks set and slightly golden around the edges. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial; a warm crust will cause the filling to melt.
3. Whip Up the Peppermint Pudding Base: While your crust cools, prepare the pudding mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together the fat-free milk and both packages of sugar-free, low-calorie pudding mix until the mixture is smooth, without any lumps, and begins to thicken. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, stir in ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Taste the mixture, and if you desire a stronger peppermint flavor, add up to an additional ¼ teaspoon. If you plan to color your pie, now is the time to add a few drops of red food dye until you reach your desired pink shade. Be mindful that the color will lighten slightly when combined with the whipped topping.
4. Gently Combine for Creaminess: In a separate, clean bowl, gently fold the nonfat plain Greek yogurt and fat-free whipped topping together until just combined. The key here is to be gentle to maintain the airiness of the whipped topping. Then, carefully fold this yogurt and whipped topping mixture into the prepared pudding mixture. Again, avoid overmixing, as this can deflate the filling and alter its light, fluffy texture. Once fully combined and uniform in color, transfer the creamy peppermint filling into the completely cooled chocolate cookie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Chill and Set: Cover the peppermint pie loosely with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow it to chill and set for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. This crucial step allows the filling to firm up to a perfect sliceable consistency and lets the flavors meld beautifully. Just before serving, decorate your pie with your preferred toppings, such as extra fat-free whipped topping, crushed candy canes, or a sprinkle of additional chocolate cookie crumbs.
Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions for Your Peppermint Pie
While this recipe is delicious as written, feel free to get creative and adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions:
- Peppermint Pie with an Easier Crust Option: If you’re short on time or prefer a different crust, you absolutely can skip making the homemade zero-sugar chocolate cookie crust. Instead, opt for a pre-made store-bought Oreo crust for convenience. Keep in mind that using an Oreo crust will increase the WW points per serving due to its sugar and fat content. Alternatively, a pre-made graham cracker crust is also an option if you prefer a less chocolatey base, though I personally find the chocolate crust offers a superior flavor pairing with the peppermint.
- Peppermint Pie with a Touch of Cream Cheese: For an even richer, tangier filling, consider incorporating some cream cheese. If you have a few extra Weight Watchers points to spare, you can mix in either full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese. I recommend whipping the cream cheese separately until it’s light and fluffy before gently folding it into the pudding and whipped topping mixture. This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling. You can substitute a portion of the nonfat Greek yogurt with cream cheese, adjusting the amount to your desired richness and point allowance.
- Exploring Other Milk Types: This recipe calls for fat-free milk because it consistently provides the best results for thickening the sugar-free pudding mix. The higher protein content in fat-free milk helps the pudding set firmly. However, if you wish to use other types of milk (like almond milk, soy milk, or lower-fat dairy milk), be aware that Jell-O and other pudding mix brands often provide specific instructions on their packaging for proper thickening with alternative milks. This might involve different ratios or preparation methods to achieve the desired consistency, so always check the pudding box for guidance.
- Delightful Decoration Ideas: The presentation of your peppermint pie can be as festive as its flavor! For a classic look, top your pie with additional fat-free or sugar-free canned whipped cream, or a dollop of fat-free Cool Whip. To add a delightful crunch and extra peppermint kick, sprinkle crushed candy canes or other types of mint candies (sugar-free if you’re strict on points) right before serving. Be sure to add these just before serving to prevent them from melting and making the pie watery. You can also sprinkle extra zero-sugar cookie crumbs on top for texture or, if you have extra WW points, drizzle a light chocolate ganache for a truly decadent finish.
- Individual Peppermint Pies in Jars or Mugs: For charming individual portions or a no-bake crust option, assemble mini peppermint pies in clear mason jars, mugs, or small dessert cups. Skip baking the crust entirely; simply layer the raw cookie crumb mixture and then the peppermint filling. Allow these individual servings to set in the refrigerator just as you would a whole pie. This method not only creates an adorable presentation but also makes portion control effortless, potentially lowering the WW points per serving if you create smaller, more numerous cups.
Expert Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie
Achieving the perfect peppermint pie is easy with a few key tips and tricks:
- Optimal Storage for Leftovers: This peppermint pie is best enjoyed within 3-4 days of preparation. Always store it covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other food odors. Unfortunately, this pie is not well-suited for freezing. Due to the nature of pudding mix and Greek yogurt, freezing and then thawing will drastically alter the texture of the filling, making it watery and less appealing. Stick to refrigeration for the best results.
- Avoid Overmixing the Filling: When combining the whipped topping and yogurt with the pudding mixture, it’s crucial to fold them gently. Overmixing can cause the air incorporated into the whipped topping to deflate, leading to a denser, less fluffy pie filling. You want a light, airy, and creamy texture, so mix just until everything is combined and no streaks remain.
- Timing is Key for Peppermint Candy Toppings: If you plan to decorate your pie with crushed peppermint candy pieces, such as candy canes, wait until just before you’re ready to serve. Peppermint candies tend to melt when exposed to moisture and refrigerator temperatures for extended periods, potentially releasing sugary liquid onto the surface of your pie, which can make it sticky and detract from its appearance.
- Mastering the Perfect Crust Consistency: The success of your chocolate cookie crust hinges on getting the right consistency. If, after mixing, your crust mixture appears too dry or crumbly and won’t hold together when pressed, add a little more light butter substitute (in half-tablespoon increments) until it feels like wet sand. To test, squeeze a small amount in the palm of your hand; it should easily form a clump and retain its shape. Additionally, ensure you pack the crust firmly into the pie dish. A well-packed crust will provide a sturdy base and prevent excessive crumbling when you slice and serve the pie. A slight crumble is normal, but it shouldn’t fall apart.
Discover More Weight Watchers Friendly Desserts
If you loved this light peppermint pie, you might enjoy these other delicious Weight Watchers compatible dessert recipes:
Mini Peppermint Cheesecake Bites
Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Donuts
Candy Cane Dip
Weight Watchers Peppermint Pie
Ingredients
- 2 – 3 tbsp Light butter substitute, melted, as needed to reach the right consistency
- 6.5 oz zero-sugar chocolate cookie crumbs, ground (I used Voortman bakery cookies Zero-sugar)
- 2 cups Fat-free milk
- 2 packages, 1 oz each Sugar-free, low-calorie white chocolate pudding mix (or vanilla)
- 1 cup Nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup Fat-free whipped topping
- ¼ – ½ tsp to taste Peppermint extract, must be peppermint; don’t use mint extract
Instructions
-
First, make the crust by mixing the light butter substitute and the finely ground cookie crumbs. Start with 2 tbsp of light butter substitute and add ½ tbsp – 1 tbsp more if needed. It should be the consistency of wet sand and you should be able to easily pack it without it being crumbly.
-
Pack the crust mixture into a greased 9 or 9.5-inch pie dish and bake it in a 375°F oven for 10 – 15 minutes or until it is golden and set. Allow to cool completely.
-
Meanwhile, make the filling mixture by mixing the milk and two pudding packets until there are no lumps and it thickens. Add ¼ tsp of peppermint extract, taste, and add up to ¼ tsp more if needed (also add food coloring at this time if using).
-
In a separate bowl, gently fold the yogurt and whipped topping together and then fold that mixture into the pudding mixture, being careful not to overmix. Once combined, transfer to the cooled crust and spread in an even layer.
-
Transfer the peppermint pie to the refrigerator and let it set for 4 hours or overnight. Decorate with preferred toppings right before serving.
Notes
When selecting your pudding mix, note that while both white chocolate and vanilla pudding mix will work, the vanilla flavor tends to give the pie a slightly yellow undertone. For a bright, clean white (or pink if colored) filling, white chocolate pudding mix is the ideal choice.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info