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Circus Cookie Salad

A colorful and playful dessert made with cream cheese, whipped topping, and frosted circus cookies, perfect for parties and special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Refreshment
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened Use a high-quality cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
  • 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar Sweetens the salad without adding graininess.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use pure vanilla extract for authentic flavor.
  • 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed Cool Whip works great, but homemade is fine too.
  • 2 cups frosted circus animal cookies, coarsely chopped Choose colorful cookies for a cheerful presentation.
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows Adds chewiness and fun!
  • 2 tablespoons rainbow nonpareils Optional, but they bring a pop of color.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Set your cream cheese out to soften for about 30 minutes.
Mixing
  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla extract using a hand mixer until smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are fully combined.
Combine Ingredients
  1. Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently to keep the mixture light and airy.
  2. Fold in the chopped circus cookies and mini marshmallows.
  3. Gently fold in the rainbow nonpareils.
Final Touches
  1. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator. Garnish with extra cookie pieces on top before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days; it's often gone within a day! Can be prepared a day in advance; wait to fold in nonpareils until serving. Avoid overmixing for best texture.