There’s something so special about the holidays, isn’t there? The air fills with whispers of laughter, the warmth of family gathered close, and oh, the sweet smell of treats baking in the kitchen. Among all the treasures, one dessert stands out like the twinkling lights on a tree—Chocolate Peppermint Lush Dessert. It’s the kind of dessert that brings joy to the heart and comfort to the soul, evoking memories of cozy winter nights spent with loved ones.
Why make this recipe? Well, darling, this luscious treat isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the season. With each delightful layer, you’re not just sharing flavors but a slice of love, warmth, and nostalgia. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy night by the fire, this recipe will transport you and your family to a place of sweet remembrance, where the spirit of togetherness shines bright.
How to make Chocolate Peppermint Lush Dessert
Ingredients:
- 32 Oreos
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, melted
- 2 bars (8 oz each) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 drop red gel food coloring
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
- 2 boxes (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding
- 3 cups half and half
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
- Crushed and chopped peppermint candy canes for garnish
Directions:
- Begin by greasing a 9×13 baking dish with a touch of softened butter or shortening, setting the stage for a real family favorite.
- In a whirl of nostalgia, crush the Oreo cookies in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs. Pour in that melted butter and mix until combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish. Pop it in the freezer for 20 minutes, and let the waiting begin.
- While we wait, let’s create the creamy peppermint layer. In a lovely bowl, blend those temptingly soft cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth and dreamy. Gently fold in the Cool Whip and just a sprinkle of red gel food coloring, mixing on low until it’s all just combined. Add in those gorgeous crushed candy canes to bring the spirit of Christmas alive, then spread that peppermint mixture evenly over the crust.
- Now, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding and half and half in another bowl until thickened, about 3 minutes—patience is a virtue, darling! Spoon this luscious chocolate pudding layer over your peppermint creation and smooth it out with love.
- Next, spread a delightful layer of Cool Whip over that silky chocolate pudding.
- Cover your masterpiece and let it chill in the fridge for at least 6-8 hours or, if you can bear the wait, overnight for the flavors to truly mingle.
- Just before serving, sprinkle on those crushed and chopped candy canes, and watch the twinkle come to life!
How to serve Chocolate Peppermint Lush Dessert
Slice it up and serve it chilled. This delightful dessert pairs perfectly with a warm cup of cocoa or a hot cup of coffee. Just imagine everyone gathered around, passing around the dish, laughing and smiling as they dig into this minty, chocolatey goodness.
How to store Chocolate Peppermint Lush Dessert
Keep any leftovers sealed up in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Though, I must warn you, it rarely lasts long in the company of good friends and family!
Tips to make Chocolate Peppermint Lush Dessert
Feel free to customize the crushed candy canes for a bit more or less sweetness. And, if you want a little crunch, try adding some chopped nuts into the layers!
Variations
For an extra twist, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed gingerbread cookies instead of candy canes during the holiday season. Or, you could switch up the chocolate pudding for vanilla to mix things up a bit, although we all know chocolate is the star here!
FAQs
-
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Of course! Homemade whipped cream adds a lovely, fresh flavor, though Cool Whip gives it a light, fluffy texture that’s simply delightful. -
What if I can’t find peppermint extract?
No worries, sugar! You can substitute with a little vanilla extract or leave it out altogether; the crushed candy canes will still bring that peppermint punch.
As you gather in your cozy kitchens, filling the air with laughter and the scent of deliciousness, remember that it’s not just about the food; it’s about those sweet moments shared with family. So here’s to bringing warmth into every gathering, one luscious layer at a time. Enjoy this delightful Chocolate Peppermint Lush Dessert—it’s made for sharing and cherishing in the hearts of our loved ones.
Chocolate Peppermint Lush Dessert
Ingredients
Method
- Grease a 9x13 baking dish with softened butter or shortening.
- Crush the Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs form.
- Mix in the melted butter until combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Freeze the crust for 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth.
- Fold in the Cool Whip and red gel food coloring until combined.
- Add in the crushed candy canes and spread the peppermint mixture evenly over the crust.
- Whisk the instant chocolate pudding and half and half in a bowl until thickened, about 3 minutes.
- Spoon the chocolate pudding layer over the peppermint layer and smooth it out.
- Spread the Cool Whip over the chocolate pudding layer.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 6–8 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, sprinkle the crushed and chopped candy canes on top.
- Slice and serve chilled, optionally pairing with warm cocoa or coffee.