No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
Ingredients:
1 package (14 ounces) chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream, very cold
1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust: Finely crush the chocolate sandwich cookies. You can do this by placing them in a resealable bag and crushing them with a rolling pin, or by pulsing them in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cookies with the melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
2. Create the Crust Layer: Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to ensure an even layer. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, beat the cold heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
5. Combine Filling Ingredients: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped cream.
6. Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
7. Melt Chocolate Chips: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt them in a double boiler.
8. Drizzle Melted Chocolate: Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cream cheese filling. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more decorative effect.
9. Chill and Garnish: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely. Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings or sprinkles, if desired.