Description
Circus Animal Cookie Lush is a delightful no-bake layered dessert featuring crushed colorful Circus Animal cookies, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping. This easy-to-make treat offers a playful mix of textures and flavors and is perfect for parties or anytime you want a sweet, nostalgic indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Layer
- 2 cups crushed Circus Animal cookies (about 30 cookies)
Pudding Mixture
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Whipped Topping
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
Optional Garnishes
- 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, which should take about 2 minutes. Set aside to firm up.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Incorporate whipped topping: Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to lighten the texture.
- Add the pudding: Carefully fold the prepared thickened pudding into the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture until everything is well combined, creating a smooth, creamy filling.
- Layer the dessert: In a 9×13 inch dish, spread half of the crushed Circus Animal cookies evenly as the bottom layer, which will provide a colorful and crunchy base.
- Add pudding layer: Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the cookie layer to create the next creamy layer.
- Repeat layers: Add the remaining half of crushed Circus Animal cookies over the pudding layer, then spread the remaining pudding mixture on top, creating a second cookie and pudding layer.
- Top and garnish: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the final pudding layer. Sprinkle with optional sprinkles or extra crushed Circus Animal cookies for added decoration and texture.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the texture to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- You can substitute the instant vanilla pudding mix with any other flavor for a different twist.
- The dessert is best served chilled, so plan ahead to allow enough refrigeration time.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free Circus Animal cookies.
- This dessert can be made a day in advance to allow flavors to fully develop.
