Handwritten recipe for Three Layered Pudding Dessert
by: salvagedrecipes

Three Layer Chocolate Pudding Dessert with Whipped Topping

Three Layered Pudding Dessert
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.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 320 kcal

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

  • Substitute instant pudding for a quicker prep.
  • Use pecans instead of walnuts for a softer nutty flavor.
  • Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on top before serving.
  • For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping.
  • Chill overnight for cleaner slices.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 4gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 21mgPotassium: 130mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 0.6mg
Keyword chocolate, classic comfort food, Cream Cheese, dessert, family favorites, pudding, vintage recipe, whipped cream
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