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Cookies and Cream Dessert Cups | Creamy, Crunchy & Crowd-Pleasing

If you’re a fan of cookies and cream, this recipe is about to become your go-to dessert. These Cookies and Cream Dessert Cups combine layers of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, fluffy cream cheese filling, and whipped cream for a treat that’s as beautiful as it is indulgent. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply satisfying a late-night craving, these dessert cups are easy to make yet taste like something from a fancy café. The contrast between the creamy layers and crunchy cookie crumbles creates a perfect bite every time.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
chill time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 dessert cups
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Culinary Aids & Spices:
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
Crackers & Biscuits:
  • 2 ½ cups chocolate sandwich cookies crushed (for crust & layers)
  • 28 mini chocolate sandwich cookies for garnish
Dairy Products:
  • ¼ cup butter melted
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream cold

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Electric mixer (hand or stand mixer)
  • Spatula
  • Food processor or rolling pin (for crushing cookies)
  • Small dessert cups or glasses
  • Piping bag (optional, for neater layers)

Method
 

Step 1: Make the Cookie Crust Layer
  1. Crush 2 ½ cups chocolate sandwich cookies using a food processor or by placing them in a bag and smashing with a rolling pin.
  2. Mix crushed cookies with melted butter until well combined.
  3. Spoon a layer into each dessert cup and press gently to create a base.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
  1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
  1. In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
  2. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep it light and airy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert Cups
  1. Spoon or pipe a layer of cream mixture over the cookie crust in each cup.
  2. Sprinkle with more crushed cookies.
  3. Repeat layers until cups are full, ending with cream mixture.
Step 5: Garnish & Chill
  1. Top each dessert cup with a sprinkle of crushed cookies and a mini chocolate sandwich cookie.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze without garnishes for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
🥄 Variations
Peanut Butter Twist: Add a layer of peanut butter between the cream and cookie layers.
Mint Cookies and Cream: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract to the cream mixture.
Berry Surprise: Layer in fresh strawberries or raspberries.
Chocolate Lover’s Version: Drizzle chocolate ganache between layers.
Cheesecake Style: Use the crust as a thicker base and bake for a firmer texture before adding cream.
Oreo Trifle Cups: Alternate cookies and cream with chocolate pudding.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Yes—but fresh whipped cream has a richer flavor.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes—prepare up to 24 hours before serving for best freshness.
3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but it may be less creamy.
4. How can I crush cookies without a food processor?
Place in a sealed bag and use a rolling pin.
5. Can I make these in a large trifle dish?
Absolutely—just layer in a bigger bowl.
6. Can I use flavored sandwich cookies?
Yes—mint, golden, or peanut butter cookies work well.
7. Do they need to be refrigerated?
Yes—due to dairy ingredients.
8. Can I skip the butter in the crust?
Yes, but the crust will be looser.
9. How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce sugar by ¼ cup or use less in the cream filling.
10. Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes—mini chocolate chips make a great crunchy addition.
🏁 Conclusion
These Cookies and Cream Dessert Cups are the perfect no-bake treat for cookie lovers. Creamy, crunchy, and beautifully layered, they’re as easy to make as they are irresistible to eat. Whether for a party or a simple weekend dessert, they deliver both flavor and style.