Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Press the entire package of refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove the dish from the oven and let the crust cool completely. This is a crucial step before adding the next layers to prevent them from melting.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling While the crust is cooling, prepare the cream cheese layer. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and easily spreadable.
Step 3: Layer the Cream Cheese Once the crust is cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of it. Place the dish in the fridge to chill while you prepare the pudding. This helps the cream cheese layer firm up.
Step 4: Prepare the Pudding In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold whole milk until the mixture begins to thicken. It will set fairly quickly, so be ready to use it right away.
Step 5: Add the Pudding Layer Take the dish out of the fridge and spread the prepared pudding in an even layer over the cream cheese mixture. Return the dish to the fridge to allow the pudding to set completely, which should take at least 15-20 minutes.
Step 6: Finish with Whipped Topping and Garnish Once the pudding layer is set, remove the dessert from the fridge. Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top. For an extra touch of “chocolate delight,” sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chocolate shavings, or chocolate curls before serving.
