Chocolate Delight

Chocolate Delight is a classic layered dessert that combines a crunchy pecan crust, creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s a favorite at gatherings and sure to impress your guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Chocolate Delight because it’s a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The nutty crust pairs perfectly with the smooth layers of cream cheese and chocolate pudding, all topped off with a light whipped topping. It’s also straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for both special occasions and everyday indulgences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup butter, melted
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 1 container (16 oz) Cool Whip, divided
• 2 packages (3.9 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
• 3 cups milk

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the Cool Whip (about 2 cups) until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
3. Chocolate Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate instant pudding mixes and milk until thickened. Pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
4. Whipped Topping: Gently spread the remaining Cool Whip over the chocolate pudding layer.
5. Chill: Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set. For easier slicing, you can place it in the freezer for 30 minutes before serving. Run your knife under hot water and rinse between each slice to prevent smearing the layers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: At least 2 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: If you have a nut allergy, you can omit the pecans in the crust or substitute them with crushed pretzels for a salty twist.
• Different Pudding Flavors: While chocolate is traditional, you can experiment with other pudding flavors like butterscotch or lemon to create a new taste experience.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: For a fresher taste, I sometimes use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating. I recommend not freezing it, as the texture may change upon thawing.

FAQs

What can I use instead of pecans in the crust?

If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, you can substitute crushed graham crackers or pretzels to maintain the crust’s crunchiness.

Can I make Chocolate Delight ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare this dessert a day in advance. It allows the layers to set firmly, and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Is it possible to use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Certainly! Homemade pudding can be used, but ensure it’s cooled and thickened properly before layering to prevent it from mixing with the cream cheese layer.

How do I prevent the layers from mixing together?

To maintain distinct layers, I make sure each layer is adequately chilled and set before adding the next. Spreading each layer gently and evenly also helps keep them separate.

Can I use a different size pan?

A 9×13-inch pan is standard for this recipe. Using a different size may alter the thickness of the layers and could affect the setting time.

Conclusion

Chocolate Delight is a timeless dessert that brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make it a go-to recipe for many occasions. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dessert as much as I do.

Chocolate Delight

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• Author: admin
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate layered dessert, Chocolate Delight! This easy-to-make treat combines a nutty pecan crust, creamy cheesecake layer, luscious chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for gatherings, this dessert will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup butter, melted
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 1 container (16 oz) Cool Whip, divided
• 2 packages (3.9 oz each) chocolate instant pudding mix
• 3 cups milk

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Instructions

• Prepare the Crust:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Mix flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans in a bowl.
  • Press mixture into a 9×13-inch pan and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Let cool completely.
• Cream Cheese Layer:
  • Beat cream cheese and confectioner’s sugar until smooth.
  • Fold in half of the Cool Whip (about 2 cups).
  • Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
• Chocolate Pudding Layer:
  • Whisk chocolate pudding mixes and milk until thickened.
  • Spread pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
• Whipped Topping:
  • Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the pudding layer.
• Chill:
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  • Optional: Freeze for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

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Notes

• Substitute pecans with graham crackers or pretzels for a nut-free option.
• Use homemade whipped cream or pudding for a customized touch.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.