No-Bake Cookies and Cream Dessert

Ingredients:

• 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup baking sugar
• 1 package (400g) of chocolate sandwich cookies, place the cookies in a zip-lock bag and crush with a rolling pin
• 1 package (220 g) of cream cheese at room temperature
• 5 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of coarse salt
• 1 container (340 g) whipped topping, thawed
• 1 package (100 g) of instant chocolate pudding (+ any additional ingredients needed)
• 1/4 cup setting chocolate ice cream topping

Preparation:

1. Lightly spray an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with cooking spray. In a medium bowl, combine the butter, granulated sugar, and 2 cups of crushed cookies. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press it evenly. Freeze for 15 minutes to set.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat with a mixer on medium-high speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Stir in 3/4 cup of the whipped topping to lighten the mixture. Spoon the filling into the cake pan and smooth it out with a spatula, then refrigerate for 15 minutes to set slightly.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the pudding according to package directions. Spoon it over the filling. Top with the remaining whipped topping, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours to set. Before serving, sprinkle with the remaining crushed cookies and drizzle with chocolate ice cream topping.