Candy Cane Lush
A no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy cheesecake, vanilla pudding, and crushed candy canes that delivers festive flavors perfect for the holiday season.
Ingrédients
Crust Layer
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs Ensure cookies are finely crushed.
- 6 tablespoons melted butter Used to bind the cookie crumbs.
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened) Should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip) For the creamy layer.
Pudding Layer
- 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz each)
- 3 cups cold milk Required for mixing with pudding.
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract Adds flavor to the pudding.
- 6-8 drops red food coloring (optional) For decorative swirl effect.
Topping
- 2 cups whipped topping For the top layer.
- ½ cup crushed candy canes For garnish.
- Mini candy canes or peppermint pieces Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients for easy access and ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature.
- Crumble the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs and crush the candy canes into small pieces.
Crust Assembly
- In a bowl, combine the chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish to form the crust and chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
Cream Cheese Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until creamy and fluffy, then spread over the chilled crust evenly.
Pudding Layer
- In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mixes and cold milk for about 2 minutes or until thickened.
- Mix in the peppermint extract and, if desired, add a few drops of red food coloring, swirling gently.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
Top Layer and Garnish
- Spread 2 cups of whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top and garnish with mini candy canes or peppermint pieces if desired.
Chill
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Serving
- Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator, cut into squares, and serve with extra garnishes as desired.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For freezing, cut into portions and wrap tightly before placing in the freezer.