A simple, sweet, and satisfying dessert that requires no oven! Perfect for warm days or when you need a quick treat.
Ingredients:
- For the “Crust”:
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers (or digestive biscuits)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup of your favorite cookies, crushed (Oreo, chocolate chip, etc.)
- Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate sauce
- Sprinkles
- Extra crushed cookies.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or a pie plate, creating an even crust.
- Place the crust into the refrigerator to chill while you make the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a seperate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and even.
- Fold in the crushed cookies.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cake to set.
- Decorate and Serve:
- Once the cake is set, remove it from the refrigerator.
- If using a springform pan, carefully remove the sides.
- Decorate the top with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, sprinkles, or extra crushed cookies, as desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Tips and Variations:
- For a chocolate version, add cocoa powder to the cream cheese filling.
- Use different types of cookies for the filling and topping to create unique flavor combinations.
- For a peanut butter version, add peanut butter to the cream cheese filling.
- For a richer crust, you can add a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
- If you do not have a springform pan, a pie plate or even a square baking dish will work.
- Ensure your cream cheese is very soft, this will help create a smooth filling.
- Chilling the heavy cream and bowl will help the cream whip faster.