This Circus Animal Cookie Lush is a fun and colorful dessert made with creamy layers, soft cookies, and a sweet whip. It’s perfect for a special treat that will make everyone smile!
You know it’s a hit when you hear the giggles after each bite. I love serving it at parties or just for a cozy movie night. It’s hard to resist digging in for a second (or third) piece! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Circus Animal Cookies: These are the star of the show! If you can’t find them, consider any other frosted sugar cookies. Don’t forget to check for festive sprinkles for the fun look.
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture. If you’re dairy-sensitive, use vegan cream cheese or silken tofu for a lighter version.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is crucial for achieving fluffiness. If you need a lighter option, you can use coconut cream or whipped coconut milk for a non-dairy alternative.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This creates a thick layer. If you prefer homemade pudding, you can make it from scratch, but that will take longer.
How Do I Get the Best Whipped Cream?
Whipping cream can be tricky, but here’s how to make it perfect! Start with cold tools; chill your mixing bowl and beaters for about 10 minutes prior. This helps the cream whip up nicely.
- Pour your cold heavy cream into the bowl, and add vanilla extract.
- Beat on medium speed until you start to see soft peaks form.
- Be careful not to over-whip—it can turn to butter quickly! Stop as soon as it holds a shape.
Using cold cream and tools makes a big difference! Enjoy fluffing up that cream for your dessert!
How to Make Circus Animal Cookie Lush
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box (about 15 oz) of Circus Animal Cookies (soft, frosted sugar cookies with sprinkles)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- Additional Circus Animal Cookies, crushed or whole, for topping
- Colorful sprinkles for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert requires about 20 minutes of prep time, followed by at least 4 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator. You’ll spend just a bit of time mixing up layers, and then it’ll simply need some time to set and chill. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cookie Crust:
Start by lining a 9×13 inch baking dish with a single layer of whole Circus Animal Cookies. Make sure to arrange them closely together to cover the bottom evenly. If you find some gaps, you can lightly crush a few extra cookies and fit them in.
2. Whip the Cream:
In a medium bowl, pour in the cold heavy whipping cream and add the vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t turn to butter! Once done, set this bowl aside.
3. Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese along with the powdered sugar until the mixture is nice and smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your lush!
4. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
Next, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk in another bowl. Mix it together for about 2 minutes, or until it thickens nicely.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until everything is well combined. Be careful not to deflate it too much—its fluffiness is key!
6. Fold in the Whipped Cream:
Now, take the whipped cream you set aside earlier and fold it into the cream cheese and pudding mixture gently. This will make your lush incredibly light and airy.
7. Assemble the Dessert:
Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cookie crust in your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s smooth on top!
8. Add Toppings:
If you like, crush a few more Circus Animal Cookies and sprinkle them on top, along with some colorful sprinkles for that extra festive touch!
9. Chill and Set:
Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This resting time allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once ready, slice the lush into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy this creamy, fun dessert that is sure to delight both kids and adults alike!
Celebrate every bite of your colorful Circus Animal Cookie Lush! 🎉
Can I Substitute Circus Animal Cookies?
Absolutely! If you can’t find Circus Animal Cookies, any frosted sugar cookies can work just as well. You might miss the fun design, but the flavor will still shine through!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh and creamy!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Yes, making it a day in advance is a great idea! This allows the flavors to meld even more, and it’ll be ready to enjoy when your guests arrive!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pudding?
Of course! While vanilla is traditional, you can experiment with chocolate or even pistachio pudding for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile of the dessert!
