Creamy Mocha Frozen Dessert

This is one of my favorites. It came from my Aunt "Skeeter" in Niceville, Florida. I love it because it's flexible in that you can lighten it up, make pies from it instead of one large dish, add your favorite toppings, etc. And because it's frozen, it will keep for a long time. I am going to begin with the original recipe. Then, I will include the changes I made.

Creamy Mocha Frozen Dessert
Marcelle Shelnutt, Niceville, Florida

2 tsp instant coffee
1 Tbsp hot water
1 cup Oreo cookie crumbs
3/4 cup pecans, divided
1/4 cup margarine, melted
2 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 - 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup chocolate syrup
1 - 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed

1) Dissolve coffee in hot water, set aside. 2) Combine cookie crumbs, 1/2 cup pecans, and margarine. 3) Pat into 13x9x2 pan. 4) Beat cream cheese until smooth, blend in coffee, milk, and chocolate syrup. 5) Fold in Cool Whip and spread over crust. 6) Freeze.

*Alternative:  This version makes two pies (and does not include pecans). Use 2 precooked chocolate graham or Oreo pie crusts. Begin with Step 1 but omit Steps 2 and 3. Continue with Steps 4 and 5. Divide mixture among two pie crusts. Freeze. I like to take a Hershey's milk or dark chocolate bar and grate over the top using a lemon zester. I think spinkles of crushed Oreos would be delish as well. Also, it you're missing the pecans on this version, simply add after you've poured the cream cheese mixture into your pie shells. Get creative and have fun with this recipe!

Enjoy,
Marie