There’s something about dessert that brings the whole family together, isn’t there? I can remember countless Sunday afternoons spent in the kitchen, trying to whip up something sweet after dinner. One of the recipes that always brings a smile is this Heavenly Oreo Dessert. It’s a go-to for potlucks, birthday parties, or just a cozy night in with the family.
The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity and deliciousness. It’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy days when you want to treat your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. I often get my kids involved in the process; they love crushing the Oreo cookies and mixing everything together. It’s become a fun tradition that makes for some pretty sweet memories.
Every time I serve this dessert, I’m reminded of my own childhood—my mother would make something similar whenever we had friends over. The way everyone would gather around the table, forks in hand, ready to dig in. It’s that shared experience that makes food so special. So, whether you’re planning a family gathering or just a casual get-together, this Heavenly Oreo Dessert is sure to impress and create new memories of your own.
Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful treat and share it with those you love!
How to Make Heavenly Oreo Dessert
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Ingredients
- 1 pack (15.35 oz) Oreo cookies (Double-Stuffed)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 ¼ cups cold milk
- 2 tubs (8 oz each) thawed Cool Whip
- 1 block (8 oz) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Directions
Begin by placing the Oreo cookies in a large zip-lock bag, ensuring it’s sealed tight. Use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces, keeping some chunks intact for added texture.
Reserve about one-third of the crushed cookies for topping later. In a 9×13 baking dish, combine the remaining cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom to form a crust.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk. Let it sit in the refrigerator for a few minutes to thicken up.
Meanwhile, in another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until well combined. Gently fold in one tub of thawed Cool Whip, then layer this over the Oreo crust.
Once the pudding has set, pour it over the cream cheese layer. Finish by spreading the second tub of Cool Whip on top.
Sprinkle the reserved cookie crumbs over the dessert. Cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness. It’s perfect for making ahead of time for gatherings!
Cooking Tips
For a different flavor twist, try using mint Oreos instead of the classic. You can also add a layer of crushed candy bars or nuts for extra crunch. Just be mindful of dietary restrictions if serving to guests.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat. It pairs well with coffee or a glass of cold milk to enhance the flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have Cool Whip, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form. For a lower-calorie option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix without compromising taste.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, consider adding fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries to the layers for a refreshing twist. In the fall, a layer of pumpkin puree can create a delightful autumn-themed dessert.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy and gluten. If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the Oreos with gluten-free cookies and ensure the other ingredients do not contain gluten. For dairy-free options, use non-dairy cream cheese and whipped topping.
FAQ
Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
How long does the dessert last in the fridge?
The Heavenly Oreo Dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s covered to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other flavors in the fridge.
Can I use regular Oreos instead of Double-Stuffed?
Absolutely! While Double-Stuffed Oreos provide a richer cream filling, regular Oreos work perfectly fine for the crust and topping. The flavor will still be delicious.
Is it possible to freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can freeze the dessert, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you freeze it, let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the texture of the layers.
What can I do if I don’t have Cool Whip?
If you don’t have Cool Whip, you can make your own whipped topping by beating heavy cream with a little sugar until soft peaks form. This will add a lovely freshness to the dessert.
Can I add other flavors to this dessert?
Definitely! You can experiment by adding layers of caramel sauce, different flavored puddings, or even crushed candies to make it your own. Just be creative!
Heavenly Oreo Dessert
Ingredients
- 1 pack (15.35 oz) Oreo cookies (Double-Stuffed)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 ¼ cups cold milk
- 2 tubs (8 oz each) thawed Cool Whip
- 1 block (8 oz) softened cream cheese
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar
Instructions
- Place all Oreo cookies into a large zip-lock bag and crush them with a rolling pin into small chunks.
- Set aside one-third of the crushed Oreos. Mix the remaining cookie bits with melted butter and press into a 9×13 baking dish to form a crust.
- Whisk together pudding mix and cold milk in a bowl, then refrigerate until set.
- Blend softened cream cheese with confectioners' sugar and fold in one tub of Cool Whip. Spread over the crust.
- Layer the pudding over the cream cheese mixture, then top with the second tub of Cool Whip.
- Sprinkle remaining Oreo crumbs on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
