Introduction

Chocolate Delight is a creamy, layered dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery pecan crust, smooth cream cheese layer, rich chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a treat that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious.

A square layered dessert sits on a white plate against a white marbled background. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust with a slightly rough texture. Above that is a smooth, pale cream layer, topped with a thick, glossy dark chocolate layer. On top of the chocolate is a fluffy white layer of whipped cream, sprinkled with chopped pecans that add a crunchy texture and warm brown color to the finish. In the background, a clear glass dish holds the rest of the dessert. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans, divided
Pinch of salt (optional, if unsalted butter is used)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
16 ounces Whipped Topping (Cool Whip), divided
2 (3.9 ounce) boxes instant chocolate pudding
3 cups whole milk

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare a 13×9-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter. Mix until the mixture clumps together. You can also pulse this mixture in a food processor.
Step 3: Press the pecan crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Step 4: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 8 ounces of whipped topping until combined.
Step 5: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pecan crust.
Step 6: In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and whole milk with an electric mixer on medium speed for about two minutes, until thickened and smooth.
Step 7: Spread the chocolate pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 8: Top with the remaining 8 ounces of whipped topping and sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans over the surface.
Step 9: Refrigerate the dessert for 2 to 3 hours to allow it to chill and set properly.
Step 10: Serve chilled. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute the pecan crust with crushed graham crackers mixed with butter.
Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter dessert.
Try adding a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the cream cheese and pudding layers for a fruity twist.
Chopping pecans finely helps the crust hold together better and provides an even texture.

Storage

Keep Chocolate Delight covered in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating isn’t needed, simply serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A clear glass rectangular dish filled with a creamy white dessert topped evenly with small brown crumbs, placed on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. The dessert looks smooth with a soft texture and a single layer of crumb topping scattered across the top. A woman's hand holding a clear glass cup is partially visible at the top left, and part of a white and gray striped cloth is on the bottom left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Chocolate Delight ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it the day before serving and refrigerate to let it set fully. It will taste even better after allowing the flavors to meld.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely. Homemade whipped cream works well and adds a fresh taste. Use an equal amount to replace the whipped topping in the recipe.