Here is a simple and fresh dessert you can make in minutes. These Mint Oreo Parfaits are cool, creamy, and fun to layer. They work for small treats or for a party.
INTRODUCTION
Mint Oreo Parfaits are a quick layered dessert that mixes crushed Mint Oreo cookies with a light mint cream. The dessert looks pretty in a clear glass and tastes like a cool mint cookie shake. You do not need many tools or many steps. The layers give a good mix of texture and flavor. If you like minty cookie treats, you may also enjoy the Grinch Oreo Balls with red velvet Oreos, which use a simple cookie-and-cream base in a fun way. This parfait works for kids and adults. You can change the look by using green food coloring or by adding extra toppings. The recipe is easy to scale up for more people.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is fast and forgiving. It does not need baking. The texture mixes creamy filling and crunchy cookie crumbs. The mint flavor is fresh and not too strong. You can make the cream rich or light by changing the amount of cream cheese and whipped cream. The parfaits chill in the fridge, so they firm up and taste even better after an hour. If you make them for a party, they look pretty and serve easily. You can also mix the same flavor into other treats; for example, you may enjoy holiday truffles like the ornament Oreo truffles if you like festive mint and chocolate combos. This dessert is a good make-ahead option and it travels well.
HOW TO MAKE Mint Oreo Parfaits
Make the cookie crumbs first. Next, beat the cream cheese with the other wet ingredients until smooth. Fold in whipped cream or use stabilized whipped cream to keep the layers firm. Layer crumbs and cream in tall glasses for a nice look. Chill the glasses so the cream sets. You can add a small spoon of hot fudge or chocolate sauce if you want a richer dessert. Keep your layers even so each spoonful has both cream and cookie. For a simple twist, use whole cookies to crumble on top for a crunchy finish.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Mixing bowls (one for crumbs, one for cream)
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or spoon for folding
- Tall serving glasses or small jars
- Plastic wrap or lids for chilling
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- Mint Oreo cookies
- Cream cheese
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
- Mint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Crush the Mint Oreo cookies in a bowl.
- In another bowl, beat together cream cheese, whipped cream, powdered sugar, mint extract, and green food coloring until smooth.
- Layer crushed Mint Oreo cookies and the cream mixture in serving glasses.
- Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.
- Top with additional crushed Oreos and a sprig of mint, if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving.
HOW TO SERVE Mint Oreo Parfaits
Serve these parfaits cold. Use a long spoon so you can scoop from the bottom layers. For a party, set out garnishes like extra chopped cookies, mini chocolate chips, or mint leaves and let guests add their own toppings. You can place the parfaits on a tray and add small spoons for each guest. If you want a warm contrast, serve a small square of warm brownies on the side; the mint and chocolate pair well, as in some easy peppermint brownies recipes. Keep the servings small for tasting, or use larger glasses for a full dessert portion.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Mint Oreo Parfaits
To store in the fridge, cover the glasses with plastic wrap or transfer the parfaits to airtight containers. They will keep well for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator. The cookie layer will soften a bit over time, but the dessert still tastes good. To freeze, place the parfaits in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to one month. Note that freezing can change the texture of whipped cream and cream cheese. Thaw in the fridge for several hours before serving. If you plan to freeze, skip delicate garnishes like fresh mint leaves; add them after thawing.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for extra richness.
- Garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a small candy cane piece for winter holidays.
- Serve with coffee or milk for a simple treat.
- Add crushed peppermint candy for a sharper mint taste.
- Offer a small dish of extra cookie crumbs on the side for those who want more crunch.
VARIATIONS
You can change this recipe in many easy ways. Use regular Oreos with a drop of peppermint extract if you do not have Mint Oreos. Try a chocolate mousse layer instead of the cream cheese mix for a lighter texture. For adults, mix a small spoon of mint liqueur into the cream. To make a holiday version, add red sprinkles or a candy on top for color. If you want a citrus touch, add a bit of lime zest for a bright note. For other cookie ideas, try recipes that pair cookie crumbs with mint, such as peppermint cookies, and use their flavors as a guide to new mixes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular Oreos instead of Mint Oreos?
A: Yes. Use regular Oreos and add a small amount of mint extract to the cream. Taste as you go so the mint is not too strong.
Q: How long will the parfait keep in the fridge?
A: Keep it for 2 to 3 days in a covered container. The texture will soften a bit but it will still taste good.
Q: Can I make the cream ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the cream up to a day before and keep it covered in the fridge. Whip it again lightly if needed before layering.
Q: Can I use stabilized whipped cream?
A: Yes. Stabilized whipped cream will help the parfait hold its shape longer, especially if you plan to serve later or travel with them.
Q: Can I make these dairy free?
A: You can try dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream, but the taste and texture will change. Test a small batch first.
Q: How can I make the layers look neater?
A: Use a piping bag for the cream and press crumbs lightly with the back of a spoon to form even layers.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Mint Oreo Parfaits
You can make the cookie crumbs and the cream up to one day ahead. Store crumbs in an airtight bag and store the cream in a covered bowl in the fridge. When you are ready to serve, assemble the layers and chill for one hour. If you need to save time on the day of serving, pre-layer the parfaits and keep them covered in the fridge. Add fresh toppings like mint leaves or cookie pieces right before serving so they look fresh. If you need to travel, keep the parfaits in a cooler or insulated bag and keep them upright to avoid spills.
Mint Oreo Parfaits
Ingredients
Method
- Crush the Mint Oreo cookies in a bowl.
- In another bowl, beat together cream cheese, whipped cream, powdered sugar, mint extract, and green food coloring until smooth.
- Layer crushed Mint Oreo cookies and the cream mixture in serving glasses.
- Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.
- Top with additional crushed Oreos and a sprig of mint, if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about an hour before serving.