The 3 Layered Pudding Dessert is a beloved American classic that combines a nutty crust, smooth cream cheese layer, and luscious chocolate pudding for a comforting, creamy indulgence. Popular at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday tables, it exemplifies mid-20th century layered desserts, simple yet decadent. Its mix of textures and flavors, from the buttery almond crust to the whipped cream topping, makes it both nostalgic and irresistible. Perfectly chilled, each bite delivers creamy richness and subtle crunch.
Ingredients
- 2 boxes chocolate pudding mix (small boxes, Jell-O brand suggested)
- 3 cups milk
- 1 tsp butter
- 1 stick oleo (melted)
- 1 cup flour
- ½ to ¾ cup walnuts (finely chopped, or almonds)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip, divided)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Pudding
- Cook 2 small packages of chocolate pudding mix with 3 cups milk and 1 tablespoon butter.
- Stir until thickened.
- Cool thoroughly; cover with wax paper to prevent skin from forming.
Step 2: Make Crust
- Mix 1 cup flour with oleo until crumbly.
- Press mixture into bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle finely chopped walnuts or almonds on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Cool completely.
Step 3: Cream Cheese Layer
- Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping.
Step 4: Assemble Layers
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over cooled crust.
- Spread cooled pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with remaining whipped topping.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Chill thoroughly for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optionally sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top for garnish.
Tips
- Chill each layer thoroughly before adding the next to ensure clean layers and better slicing.
- Substitute pecans or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor in the crust.
- Use different pudding flavors (e.g., butterscotch or vanilla) for variety or a layered flavor effect.
- Lighten the dessert by using light cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives.
- Add a sprinkle of shaved chocolate, chopped nuts, or cocoa powder on top for decoration.
- Make ahead the day before serving to let flavors blend fully.
- For a firmer texture, reduce the milk slightly when preparing the pudding layer.
- Serve well chilled; this dessert softens at room temperature.
- Use a stand mixer or hand mixer for smoother cream cheese and whipped topping layers.
- Line the pan bottom with parchment for easier removal of slices.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 4gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 21mgPotassium: 130mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 0.6mg
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