Ingredients
- Lemon Oreos (14.3 oz package)
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted)
- Cream cheese (8 oz block, softened)
- Powdered sugar (1 cup)
- Instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 oz box)
- Whole milk (1/2 cup, cold)
- Frozen whipped topping (8 oz container, thawed and divided)
- Fresh lemon zest (1 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Step 1: Crush the Lemon Oreos thoroughly until fine crumbs are achieved. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cookies with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy. Gradually beat in the dry instant lemon pudding mix until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Add the cold milk to the cream cheese mixture and beat on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the filling begins to thicken. Gently fold in half (about 4 oz) of the thawed whipped topping until the filling is evenly combined and light.
- Step 4: Spread the lemon cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled Oreo crust. Use an offset spatula to ensure a smooth, level layer across the entire dish.
- Step 5: Spread the remaining half of the whipped topping over the lemon filling. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Keep any leftovers sealed tightly with plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator; this delicate, no-bake dessert tastes best within 3 days, and freezing may negatively impact the light, airy texture.
- This is a strictly chilled dessert, so ensure you allow the minimum 4 hours (or preferably overnight) refrigeration time before slicing; serving straight from the fridge guarantees the best structural integrity and flavor.
- For a perfectly smooth filling, make certain the cream cheese is fully softened before you begin beating, which prevents grainy texture or small lumps when incorporating the powdered sugar and pudding mix.
- Elevate the presentation by garnishing individual slices with a dusting of extra powdered sugar and a thin Lemon Oreo wafer stuck into the side of the whipped topping layer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American