1. Prepare the Oreo Crust
Start by crushing the 48 Oreo cookies for the crust. You can use a food processor for fine crumbs or place the cookies in a
sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Finely crushed cookies help the crust hold together more firmly.
Transfer the cookie crumbs to a mixing bowl and pour in the melted salted butter. Stir until all crumbs are evenly coated
and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish, creating an even layer. Use the back
of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact the crust.
Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the remaining layers. Chilling helps it set and prevents it from
crumbling when sliced later.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until smooth and free of lumps.
Softened cream cheese is essential for a creamy texture, so allow it to sit at room temperature before mixing.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed at first, then increasing to medium speed. Beat
until the mixture is light and creamy.
Fold in the Cool Whip gently using a spatula. Folding rather than mixing helps maintain the airy texture. Once combined,
stir in the crushed Oreo cookies for added crunch and flavor.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to create a clean, even
layer.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together the half and half and instant chocolate pudding mix. Whisk continuously for about
2 minutes until the mixture thickens. The pudding should be smooth and slightly firm.
Allow the pudding to sit for a few minutes to fully set. Once thickened, stir in the crushed Oreo cookies, distributing
them evenly throughout the pudding.
Carefully spread the pudding layer over the cream cheese layer. Use a gentle touch to avoid mixing the layers together.
4. Add the Topping
Spread the remaining Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer. This final layer adds lightness and balances the richness
of the dessert.
Sprinkle the crushed or chopped Oreo cookies over the top. You can keep the pieces chunky for texture or crush them
finely for a smoother appearance.
5. Chill Before Serving
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling is recommended for
the best texture and clean slices. This time allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to blend together.
Serving and Storage:
Serve the Cookies & Cream Dream Lasagna chilled. Use a sharp knife to cut clean squares, wiping the blade between slices
for neat presentation. Each serving should showcase distinct layers of crust, cream cheese, pudding, and topping.
This dessert pairs well with a glass of cold milk, hot cocoa, or coffee. For added presentation, serve with extra crushed
cookies or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert will remain fresh, though the cookie
layers will soften slightly over time, creating a more cake-like texture.
Tips:
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Allow each layer to spread evenly to keep the dessert visually appealing.
- Chill the dessert overnight for easier slicing and better structure.
- For extra crunch, reserve some Oreo pieces and add them just before serving.
- Keep the dessert refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain firmness.
Conclusion:
The Cookies & Cream Dream Lasagna is proof that impressive desserts do not require baking or complicated techniques. With
simple ingredients and clear layering, this no-bake recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of
chocolate cookies, creamy fillings, and fluffy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Whether you are making it for a party, a family dinner, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this dessert offers reliability
and indulgence in every bite. Its make-ahead convenience and adaptable nature ensure it will remain a favorite recipe for
years to come.
FAQ:
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes. This dessert is ideal for making ahead and tastes best when chilled overnight.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, stabilized whipped cream can be used as a substitute, but Cool Whip provides consistent structure.
Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Absolutely. Vanilla, cookies and cream, or white chocolate pudding all work well with Oreo layers.
Is freezing recommended?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese and whipped topping may change once thawed.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes. You can easily double the recipe and prepare it in a larger dish for bigger gatherings.