Welcome to a dessert that's as fun to make as it is to eat! The Vintage Garden Cake is a whimsical treat that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or just because, this cake will delight both kids and adults with its playful presentation and rich, layered flavors.
The base of this cake starts with chocolate sandwich cookies, which are crushed into fine crumbs to form a deliciously crunchy crust. Melted unsalted butter binds these crumbs together, creating a solid foundation for our layers. The cream cheese and powdered sugar are whipped together to create a smooth, tangy layer that complements the sweetness of the cake. For the creamy middle, we use vanilla instant pudding mix combined with cold milk, adding a luscious, custard-like layer. Finally, whipped topping is folded into the pudding mixture for a light, airy finish, while gummy worms provide a fun, garden-themed garnish.
Serve this cake chilled for the best texture and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For an extra touch of whimsy, top each serving with additional gummy worms or fresh fruit slices.
Start by placing the chocolate sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse them into fine crumbs. If you don't have a processor, a heavy-duty plastic bag and a rolling pin do the trick just fine. Once your crumbs are ready, transfer them to a mixing bowl and pour in the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are moist and well-coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan to create your crust.
Next, grab a clean bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. You’re aiming for a smooth, creamy consistency. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared crust using a spatula. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just make sure it’s nice and even.
In a separate bowl, whisk the vanilla instant pudding mixes with cold milk. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens. It should take on the texture of a soft pudding. Gently fold in the whipped topping until it’s fully combined. Spread this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out as you go.
For the finishing touch, sprinkle the remaining cookie crumbs over the top and add the gummy worms for a fun garden effect. Pop the whole thing into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing it to chill and set before serving.
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