Bring a touch of Grinch-inspired fun to your holiday dessert table with this no-bake Grinch Lush Dessert! Featuring a delicious Oreo crust, creamy layers of peppermint and vanilla pudding, and festive green and red colors, this dessert is perfect for kids and adults alike. Topped with sprinkles and heart decorations, it’s as charming as it is easy to make. This dessert is ideal for holiday gatherings and will quickly become a seasonal favorite!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 36 Golden Oreo sandwich cookies
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
For the Layers
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 16 ounces Cool Whip, softened, divided
- Green gel food coloring
- 6.8 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix (two 3.4 oz boxes or one larger box)
- 2½ cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red gel food coloring (for decoration)
For Topping (Optional)
- Green jimmies sprinkles
- Heart-shaped sprinkles
Instructions
For the Crust:
- Prepare the Crust: In a food processor, pulse the Golden Oreos until they’re finely crushed. Add the melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles damp sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the cookie mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Place the dish in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the layers.
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cool Whip and Color: Fold in half (about 8 ounces) of the Cool Whip until well combined. Add green gel food coloring a few drops at a time until you achieve a bright green color.
For the Pudding Layer:
- Prepare the Pudding: In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and peppermint extract until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add More Green Color: Add a few drops of green gel food coloring to the pudding mixture and stir until you reach your desired Grinch-green color.
- Layer the Pudding: Spread the green pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Return the dish to the refrigerator to chill for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the layers to set.
For the Topping:
- Top with Cool Whip: Carefully spread the remaining Cool Whip over the pudding layer, creating a smooth, even top layer.
- Decorate: Add a few drops of red gel food coloring to a small portion of the Cool Whip or piped decoration to make small red hearts, if desired. Sprinkle green jimmies and heart sprinkles on top for a festive touch.
Chill and Serve:
- Chill the Dessert: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight) to let the layers firm up.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the festive Grinch-inspired layers and creamy peppermint flavor!
Conclusion
This Grinch Lush Dessert is a whimsical and delicious addition to any holiday dessert spread. With its no-bake preparation, vibrant green color, and refreshing peppermint taste, it’s a treat that both kids and adults will love. Perfect for Christmas gatherings or just spreading holiday cheer at home, this dessert is as delightful to eat as it is to look at. Enjoy every Grinch-inspired bite!