Indulge in a decadent dessert that layers smooth, homemade chocolate pudding with fluffy whipped cream and crunchy cookies for the ultimate treat. These parfaits are rich, creamy, and so easy to assemble!
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Pudding:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For the Cookies ‘n’ Cream Layer:
- 1 package (about 8 oz) of chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For Garnish:
- Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Make the Chocolate Pudding:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat.
- Stir constantly to dissolve the cocoa powder and cornstarch completely.
- Once the mixture starts to thicken (about 5-7 minutes), continue whisking until it becomes a smooth, pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Let the pudding cool slightly, then transfer it to a bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface to avoid a skin forming. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.
2. Prepare the Cookies ‘n’ Cream Layer:
- Place the chocolate sandwich cookies in a plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin. Aim for a mix of fine crumbs and larger cookie pieces—this will add texture to your parfaits.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This whipped cream will give your parfaits a light and fluffy texture.
3. Assemble the Parfaits:
- In serving glasses or jars, start by spooning a layer of chocolate pudding at the bottom (about 2-3 tablespoons).
- Add a layer of crushed cookies (roughly 2 tablespoons).
- Follow with a layer of whipped cream, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon.
- Repeat the layers until you’ve filled the glasses, finishing with a generous layer of whipped cream on top.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Top each parfait with a sprinkle of crushed cookies and a few chocolate shavings or chocolate chips if desired for extra richness.
- Chill in the fridge for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together and for the parfaits to firm up.
Tips:
- For an extra indulgent twist, you can drizzle a little chocolate syrup between the layers.
- If you like a bit of crunch in every bite, leave some cookie chunks larger instead of finely crushing them.
- These parfaits can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving.
Q: Can I use non-dairy milk for the chocolate pudding?
A: Yes! You can substitute the whole milk with any non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just make sure to choose a variety that has a creamy texture for the best results in the pudding.
Q: Can I use a different type of cookie instead of chocolate sandwich cookies?
A: Absolutely! While classic chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos) work wonderfully, you can try other cookies like chocolate chip cookies, Biscoff cookies, or even graham crackers for a different twist. Just make sure the cookies are crunchy to add that great texture!
Q: How can I make this dessert even richer?
A: To make it even richer, you can:
- Add a layer of chocolate ganache in between the pudding and whipped cream layers.
- Mix melted chocolate into the pudding for an extra deep chocolate flavor.
- Use heavy cream for both the pudding and whipped cream layers, instead of milk or a lighter cream.
Q: Can I prepare the parfaits ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the parfaits up to a day in advance and refrigerate them. This actually allows the flavors to meld together even better! Just make sure to add the crushed cookies as a garnish right before serving so they don’t get too soggy.
Q: How long should I chill the chocolate pudding?
A: It’s best to chill the chocolate pudding for at least 2 hours to allow it to fully set and thicken. If you’re short on time, you can chill it for 1 hour, but it might be a little softer.
Q: Can I make the whipped cream layer without powdered sugar?
A: Yes, you can skip the powdered sugar, but it may alter the sweetness and texture slightly. If you don’t use powdered sugar, you may want to add a touch of regular sugar or honey to sweeten the whipped cream.
Q: How can I make the parfaits more festive or fun for a party?
A: To make them more festive, you can:
- Add colored sprinkles or festive decorations on top.
- Use mini mason jars for a cute, individual serving style.
- Layer in different colors by adding some fruit puree or whipped cream in vibrant colors.
- Serve with a mini spoon for extra charm!
Q: Can I freeze these parfaits for later?
A: While you can freeze the parfaits, the texture of the whipped cream and cookies may change when thawed. The pudding and whipped cream will become softer, and the cookies may lose their crunch. It’s best to serve them fresh, but if you do freeze them, make sure to let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Benefits of enjoying Rich Chocolaty Cookies ‘n’ Cream Parfaits
1. Comforting and Satisfying Dessert:
- Mood Boosting: Chocolate contains compounds like theobromine and phenylethylamine, which can boost serotonin and endorphins, improving mood and creating a feeling of happiness.
- Indulgent Treat: The creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor make this parfait a perfect comfort food for when you’re craving something sweet.
2. Source of Antioxidants:
- Dark Chocolate (if used in the pudding or garnish) is packed with antioxidants like flavonoids, which can help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. This can benefit overall health when consumed in moderation.
3. Calcium and Protein from Dairy:
- Milk and Heavy Cream contribute to your intake of calcium and protein, both essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. Calcium is also key for heart and nerve function.
- Whipped Cream provides a creamy texture and some fat, which can make you feel more satisfied and fuller after eating.
4. Energy from Carbs:
- The sugar in the pudding and cookies gives you a quick source of energy. This can be helpful when you need a little boost, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
5. Joyful Texture and Flavor Contrast:
- Crunchy vs. Creamy: The parfait combines crunchy cookie layers with smooth pudding and whipped cream, offering a satisfying mix of textures. This can be especially enjoyable for those who love a variety of textures in their food.
- Balanced Sweetness: The contrast of sweet chocolate pudding, lightly sweetened whipped cream, and crushed cookies creates a perfectly balanced dessert that satisfies different taste buds.
6. Quick & Easy to Make:
- With relatively simple ingredients and no baking required, these parfaits are an easy way to create a delicious dessert without much effort. This makes them perfect for last-minute gatherings or satisfying a sweet craving without much hassle.
7. Customizable:
- These parfaits are incredibly versatile. You can swap out cookies for healthier options (like oatmeal cookies or whole wheat cookies), or add fruits like berries for extra fiber and vitamins.
- You could also replace regular sugar with natural sweeteners (like stevia or honey) to make the recipe more health-conscious while still enjoying the delicious flavors.
8. Perfect for Portion Control:
- Serving the parfaits in individual glasses or jars means you get a pre-portioned dessert. This can help with portion control, making it easier to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.
9. A Creative Way to Enjoy Dessert:
- Making parfaits is a fun and creative activity. Layering different ingredients and watching them come together is a great way to express yourself in the kitchen and add a personal touch to your desserts.
10. Great for Sharing:
- These parfaits are perfect for sharing at parties, gatherings, or family dinners. They’re visually appealing and can be made in small, individual servings, making them easy to hand out to guests and enjoy together.