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–+ servings
3 Layer Cookies
These decadent 3 Layer Cookies are a nostalgic treat that layers textures and flavors for a satisfying dessert bar. Starting with a rich, chocolatey base made with cocoa and crushed vanilla wafers, the middle layer offers a creamy, dreamy vanilla pudding mixture. The top layer finishes it all with melted chocolate and a sprinkling of chopped nuts if desired. Popular at potlucks and family gatherings, this recipe reflects the ingenuity of mid-century dessert making, combining pantry staples into a multi-textured sweet that’s both simple and indulgent.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 285 kcal

Ingredients
  

First Layer

  • ½ cup butter (1 stick, oleo)
  • ⅓ cup cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 egg (slightly beaten)
  • 2 cups vanilla wafers (chopped, approx. 40 wafers)
  • 3½ oz coconut (shredded )

Second Layer

  • 2 tsp vanilla instant pudding (heaping, not cooked)
  • 3 tbsp skim milk
  • 2 cups confectioner's sugar
  • 1 stick oleo ( or ½ cup butter)

Third Layer

  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • chopped nuts for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare First Layer

  • Melt butter, cocoa, sugar, and vanilla in a double boiler.
  • Add the beaten egg slowly and stir continuously until mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
  • Remove from heat and stir in crushed vanilla wafers and coconut.
  • Press mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch pan.

Step 2: Prepare Second Layer

  • In a small bowl, mix together pudding powder, skim milk, powdered sugar, and softened butter.
  • Beat until smooth and fluffy.
  • Spread evenly over the first layer in the pan.

Step 3: Prepare Third Layer

  • Melt chocolate and 1 tbsp butter together over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments.
  • Stir until smooth.
  • Spread gently over the second layer.
  • Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.

Step 4: Chill

  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Tips

  • Toast the coconut lightly before adding for deeper flavor
  • Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate
  • Press the bottom layer firmly for clean slices
  • Chill bars before cutting to keep layers neat
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the top layer as written
  • Line the pan with parchment for easy removal
  • Swap vanilla wafers with graham crackers if needed
  • Drizzle melted chocolate instead of spreading for a lighter topping

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 3.6gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.8gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.2gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 135mgPotassium: 165mgFiber: 2.1gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 420IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 62mgIron: 1.3mg
Keyword chocolate topping, coconut bars, dessert bars, holiday baking, layered dessert, retro cookies, vintage baking
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