1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed (or 1 cup heavy cream, whipped)
2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
3 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Chocolate shavings or whipped cream for topping
Instructions
Combine crushed Oreos and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Chill for 10 minutes.
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of the thawed Cool Whip. Spread this mixture evenly over the Oreo crust.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mixes, milk, and vanilla extract. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Pour the thickened pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Spread the remaining Cool Whip evenly over the pudding layer.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm and chilled.
Slice into squares and serve. Garnish with chocolate shavings or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
For a stable whipped cream substitute, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
You can prepare this dessert a day in advance, making it a great make-ahead party dessert.
If you don’t have Oreos, chocolate graham crackers can be used for the crust.