Description
This Decadent Layers of Chocolate and Peppermint Bliss dessert features layers of crushed Oreo cookie crust, creamy cream cheese filling, rich chocolate pudding, and refreshing peppermint flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion. The combination of creamy textures and a peppermint twist makes it a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies, finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Topping
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- Optional: chocolate shavings or additional crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Combine the finely crushed Oreo cookies with the melted unsalted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan to form an even crust layer. Chill in the refrigerator to set while preparing the next layers.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping gently until well combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust.
- Prepare the chocolate pudding layer: In another bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with the cold milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes. Gently fold in the peppermint extract and the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping to give the pudding a fluffy and creamy texture.
- Assemble the dessert: Spread the chocolate pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top for a festive crunch and flavor.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least 4 hours or until fully set. Before serving, optionally garnish with chocolate shavings or additional crushed candy canes for extra decoration and texture.
Notes
- Be sure to finely crush the Oreo cookies for the crust to ensure it binds well with the butter.
- This dessert requires at least 4 hours chilling time, preferably overnight, for best texture and flavor blending.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and whipped topping with suitable plant-based alternatives.
- The peppermint extract adds a burst of flavor—do not omit if you want that classic holiday peppermint taste.
- Use cold milk for the pudding mix to help it set properly and become creamy.
