Description
Circus Animal Cookie Lush is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring crushed colorful Circus Animal cookies, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties or a sweet family dessert, offering a delightful combination of crunchy cookie layers and smooth, fluffy pudding.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Layer
- 2 cups crushed Circus Animal cookies (about 30 cookies)
Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
Optional Garnish
- Sprinkles or extra crushed Circus Animal cookies for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Set this pudding aside to thicken fully.
- Make the cream cheese base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Fold in whipped topping (part 1): Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese and powdered sugar mixture to lighten the texture.
- Combine pudding with cream cheese mixture: Carefully fold the prepared vanilla pudding into the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture until everything is evenly combined.
- First cookie layer: Spread half of the crushed Circus Animal cookies evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish to create the first cookie crust layer.
- First pudding layer: Spread half of the creamy pudding mixture over the crushed cookie layer, smoothing it gently.
- Repeat layering: Repeat by layering the remaining crushed cookies over the pudding layer, then topping with the remaining pudding mixture to create the dessert’s layered effect.
- Final whipped topping and garnish: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top layer and garnish with sprinkles or additional crushed cookies if desired.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up for perfect slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best results, allow the dessert to chill overnight to ensure the layers set properly.
- Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Can be customized with different flavored instant pudding mixes to vary the taste.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Optional garnishes like sprinkles add a festive touch, perfect for parties or celebrations.
