Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 package (about 36 cookies) Oreos, finely crushed
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract, if preferred)
1 cup Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)

For the Pudding Layer:

2 packages (3.9 ounces each) instant chocolate pudding
3 1/4 cups cold milk

For the Topping:

1 1/2 cups Cool Whip (or more, depending on preference)
Chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or Oreo crumbles for garnish

Optional Add-Ins or Swaps:

Use gluten-free sandwich cookies for a gluten-free version.
Swap almond extract for peppermint during the holidays for a festive twist.
Use light Cool Whip or reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
Add a thin layer of caramel sauce between the pudding and whipped topping for a turtle-style treat.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by crushing your Oreos. I like to toss them in a food processor for a nice fine crumb, but you can also place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin—just like my mother used to do. Combine the crushed cookies with the melted butter and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Place the dish in the fridge to chill while you prepare the next layer.

Step 2: Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and almond extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 cup of Cool Whip and mix gently. Once combined, spread this mixture evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Use an offset spatula to make the layer smooth. Return the dish to the fridge to firm up while you work on the pudding.

Step 3: Chocolate Pudding Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mixes and cold milk until thickened—this usually takes 2-3 minutes. The pudding should be thick but spreadable. Carefully spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer. Be gentle to avoid disturbing the layers beneath.

Step 4: Whipped Topping

Once the pudding layer is set, top the entire dessert with a generous layer of Cool Whip. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, creating soft swirls across the top for that classic homemade look.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Now for the fun part—garnishing! Sprinkle chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or crushed Oreos over the whipped topping. For extra flair, add a dollop of whipped cream and a few dark chocolate curls just before serving. Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This allows the layers to set beautifully.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 380
Sugar: 27g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg