Description
Chocolate Delight is a luscious layered dessert featuring a toasted pecan crust, a creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, and a rich pudding topping, all crowned with whipped topping and optional chocolate syrup. This no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat requires minimal baking and can be prepared ahead of time for easy serving.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed and divided
Pudding Layer
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
Topping
- Remaining whipped topping (from the 8-ounce container)
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the crust. In a medium bowl, combine the self-rising flour, chopped toasted pecans, and melted butter. Mix until evenly blended, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is set and lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely before adding the next layers.
- Prepare cream cheese layer. Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Gently fold in 1 cup of the thawed whipped topping until blended well. Evenly spread this mixture over the cooled crust.
- Make pudding layer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, instant chocolate pudding mix, and instant vanilla pudding mix until the mixture thickens. Let the pudding sit briefly to set, then carefully spread it over the cream cheese layer in the dish.
- Add topping and finish. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. If desired, drizzle chocolate syrup decoratively on top to enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Chill and serve. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow layers to set firmly and flavors to meld. Serve chilled for a refreshing and decadent treat.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure it mixes smoothly with the powdered sugar and whipped topping.
- The dessert can be prepared a day in advance and kept covered in the refrigerator.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with oat flour and increase butter slightly for binding.
- Use gluten-free self-rising flour if you need a gluten-free dessert.
- If a lighter dessert is desired, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream cheese, though texture and taste may vary slightly.
