Description
This holiday-inspired dessert combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peppermint in a luscious, no-bake treat. Layers of smooth cream cheese, chocolate pudding, and a crunchy Oreo crust are topped with whipped cream and festive peppermint candies, creating a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies, finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- Optional: chocolate shavings or additional crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Refrigerate while preparing the filling. - Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping and the peppermint extract. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust. - Prepare the Pudding Layer:
In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until it thickens. Spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer. - Add the Topping:
Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer. - Garnish:
Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top. Optionally, add chocolate shavings or more crushed candy canes for garnish. - Chill:
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set. - Serve:
Slice and serve chilled for a festive dessert that’s sure to delight!
Notes
- Make Ahead: This dessert can be prepared the night before and refrigerated overnight for the best results.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered tightly to prevent it from absorbing other smells in the fridge.
- Peppermint Twist: If you love the peppermint flavor, increase the amount of peppermint extract or add a layer of crushed peppermint bark in between the layers.
- Variations: Add a layer of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg