Beatin' the heat

It is hot everywhere right now!  Record-breaking temps where I grew up, where I lived the last 20+ years, and right here in Reno/Sparks.  My sweet tooth seems to be heatin' up too.  Maybe it was being invited to a barbecue this weekend and wondering what dessert to take that didn't require firing up the ol' oven.  Or maybe it was coming across these two cool recipes that got me in a sweets frame of mind.  Either way, you'll love 'em!

White Chocolate Oreo Fluff

1 small box White Chocolate instant pudding mix
2 cups milk
1 small tub Cool Whip
24 Oreos, crushed
2 cups mini marshmallows

In a large bowl whisk together the pudding mix and milk for 2 minutes.  Add Cool Whip, Oreos, and marshmallows.  Stir well.  Refrigerate until ready to serve.

This can be served as small parfaits with an Oreo garnish or Cool Whip topping.  Or, as I prefer, as a dip, with fruit and cookies (Nilla Wafers work well) for dipping.


Before I post this next recipe I want to throw in a small disclaimer.  I know I said these are cool recipes.  I know that might imply NO oven.  And this one uses the oven.  But only for 10 minutes!  The end result is so refreshing you'll forgive me if I misled you! I promise!

Strawberry Pretzel Pie

2 1/2 cups crushed pretzels (slightly chunky, not powdered)
3 tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 8-ounces package cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
2 12-ounce tubs Cool Whip, divided
1 6-ounces package Strawberry Jello
2 cups boiling water
10 ounces fresh or frozen strawberries

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Crust:  Melt butter; add sugar.  Add crushed pretzels and toss until coated.  Press into bottom of greased 9x13 baking dish.  Bake 10 minutes.  Cool well.

Topping:  While crust is cooling combine 2 cups boiling water and Jello, mix well.  Add strawberries.  Cool Jello mixture in ridge until thick (not entirely set up). *If you have glass shelves, place a pot mat or towel under the bowl.

Filling:  Combine cream cheese and sugar; beat well. Fold in one container of Cool Whip.  Spread over cooled crust.  Stir Jello mixture; pour or spoon over cream cheese mixture and refrigerate until firm.  Spread additional Cool Whip over the top, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Help a girl out and send me your photos when you try these!  I'll either add them to this post or, more likely, create a new post and publicly shower you with accolades!

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