In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk together until the cornstarch is dissolved.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add a small amount of the warm milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly, to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
Slowly pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan with the milk mixture, whisking continuously. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
Once thickened, remove the pudding from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated. Let the pudding cool slightly while you prepare the cookie layer.
Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Layer:
In a food processor, pulse the chocolate cookies until finely crushed. You can also place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin if you don’t have a food processor.
Mix the crushed cookies with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. This will help form a solid base for the dessert.
Assemble the Dessert:
In serving glasses, bowls, or a large trifle dish, start by adding a layer of the crushed cookie mixture at the bottom. Press it down gently to form a solid base.
Spoon a layer of pudding on top of the cookie layer. Continue layering the cookie crumbs and pudding until you fill the container, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the layered dessert for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the pudding to firm up. This also gives the cookie layer time to soften slightly, adding to the overall texture.
Before serving, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, or a dusting of cocoa powder for a finishing touch.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: Serve these layered delights in individual portions for a charming presentation at parties or gatherings. You can also make it in one large trifle dish for a more dramatic effect.
Storing: Cover and store any leftover pudding dessert in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. As the dessert sits, the cookie layer will soften, giving it an even more luxurious texture.
Make Ahead: This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Just assemble the layers, refrigerate overnight, and it will be ready to serve the next day.
Serving Tip: For extra elegance, serve the dessert with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup to complement the pudding and cookies.
Variants:
Vegan Version: To make this dessert vegan, replace the whole milk with a plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk), use dairy-free butter, and opt for dairy-free cookies (such as Oreos or other vegan-friendly brands).
Nutty Addition: Add a crunchy layer of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) between the cookie and pudding layers for an added texture and flavor boost.
Fruit Layer: Add a layer of fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries, raspberries, or banana slices, between the pudding layers for a refreshing twist.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Delight: For a peanut butter chocolate variation, add a layer of peanut butter mousse or whipped peanut butter between the pudding and cookie layers for a rich and nutty flavor.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use store-bought pudding for this recipe? A: Yes, you can substitute homemade pudding with store-bought pudding for a quicker option. However, homemade pudding adds a richer, more customized flavor to the dessert.
Q: Can I make this dessert in advance? A: Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. Simply assemble it the day before your event and refrigerate it overnight. It will be just as delicious the next day.
Q: Can I use any type of cookies? A: While chocolate cookies work best, you can use any cookies you prefer, such as graham crackers or vanilla wafers. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.
Q: Can I freeze this dessert? A: While the pudding layer can freeze well, the cookie layer may lose its texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a couple of days.
Q: How can I make this dessert more decadent? A: For an extra indulgent treat, you can drizzle a little caramel or chocolate syrup between the layers or top the dessert with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
This layered pudding and chocolate cookie dessert is a simple yet decadent treat that’s sure to impress. With its perfect balance of creamy pudding and crunchy cookies, it’s a delightful option for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on your own, this dessert is the perfect combination of textures and flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth!
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