This Heavenly Oreo Dessert is a real treat! With layers of cream cheese, whipped topping, and crunchy Oreo cookies, it’s a sweet dream come true. It’s so easy to make, too!
I love how special this dessert feels, yet it takes just minutes to put together. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in when you want something extra yummy! 🍪💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo Cookies: These are essential for the crust and layer flavor. If you can’t find Oreos, any chocolate sandwich cookie will work. Some people even enjoy using gluten-free cookies for a special diet!
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter to control the salt levels. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Both work well in the crust!
Cream Cheese: This adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace it with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. This change might alter the taste slightly but will keep your dessert creamy!
Whipped Topping: I use store-bought whipped topping for convenience. If you want to make it from scratch, just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form. It tastes fresher and is simple to make!
Instant Chocolate Pudding: This is key for that chocolatey punch. If you’re avoiding processed ingredients, making homemade chocolate pudding from scratch is a great alternative. Just ensure it cools before spreading!
How Do I Make the Cream Cheese Mixture Smooth?
Getting the cream cheese smooth is crucial for a perfect dessert layer. Start with softened cream cheese; this way, it blends easily without lumps. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the cream cheese sits at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy.
- When it’s lump-free, gently fold in the whipped topping with a spatula until just combined. This keeps the mixture light and airy!
This process ensures your dessert has a velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the other layers!
How to Make Heavenly Oreo Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 package (15.35 oz) Oreo cookies
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
For Garnish:
- Additional Oreo cookies, crushed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. If you choose to bake the crust, add an extra 10 minutes for baking. A little waiting is key to making this dessert perfectly creamy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, decide if you want a baked crust or a no-bake option. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking. Now, take your Oreo cookies and crush them into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and hit them with a rolling pin. Reserve about 1/2 cup of these crumbs for garnish later. In a bowl, mix the crushed cookies with the melted butter until everything is well combined.
2. Form the Crust:
Next, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom to create a nice crust. If you’re baking it, pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes, then let it cool completely. If you want to skip baking, you can just chill it in the fridge until it’s set.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together using a hand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until everything is well mixed. This will give you a light and fluffy cream cheese layer!
4. Assemble the Layers:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled Oreo crust. It’s important to make it nice and even so every bite is creamy and delicious!
5. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and the cold milk. Mix it until it thickens, which usually takes about 2 minutes. Once thickened, spread this chocolate pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. It will look so good!
6. Add the Whipped Topping:
Now, spread the remaining whipped topping over the chocolate pudding layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. This adds a lovely finishing touch!
7. Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle the reserved crushed Oreo cookies on the top for a crunchy garnish. Cover your dessert with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This helps all the flavors come together.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once you’re ready to serve, slice the dessert into squares and enjoy your Heavenly Oreo Dessert chilled. It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! While Oreos give it that signature flavor, you can experiment with other cookies like chocolate chip, vanilla wafers, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to crush them finely and mix with similar amounts of melted butter.
Can I Make This Dessert Without Baking the Crust?
Yes, this dessert can be made without baking! Just mix the crushed Oreos with melted butter and press it into the dish, then proceed with the rest of the steps. The crust will firm up as it chills in the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days, but it will still be tasty even after longer storage!
Can I Swap the Instant Pudding for a Different Flavor?
Yes! Feel free to use different flavors of instant pudding, like vanilla or white chocolate, for a unique twist. Just ensure the pudding mix you choose complements the creamy layers beneath!
