Chocolate Delight is a creamy, layered dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and vanilla pudding with a sweet cream cheese layer and a crunchy crust. This no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or a special treat at home. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz tub Cool-Whip
- 1 8 oz package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 5.9 oz package instant chocolate pudding
- 1 5.9 oz package instant vanilla pudding
- 4 cups of milk
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate Teddy Grahams (crushed)
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 stick of butter (melted)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the Teddy Grahams:
- Place the chocolate Teddy Grahams in a resealable plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin or a food processor until they are fine crumbs.
- Combine with Butter and Walnuts:
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed Teddy Grahams with the melted butter and chopped walnuts until well combined.
- Form the Crust:
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the other layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in Cool-Whip:
- Gently fold in 1 cup of Cool-Whip until well combined.
- Spread Over Crust:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Layers
- Make Chocolate Pudding:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and 2 cups of milk until thickened.
- Make Vanilla Pudding:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and the remaining 2 cups of milk until thickened.
- Layer the Puddings:
- Spread the chocolate pudding over the cream cheese layer, followed by the vanilla pudding.
Step 4: Top with Cool-Whip
- Add Final Layer:
- Spread the remaining Cool-Whip evenly over the top of the vanilla pudding layer.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
- Garnish:
- Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped walnuts or grated chocolate on top for garnish.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, or until set and chilled.
Step 6: Serve
- Cut and Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and delicious layers of Chocolate Delight!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free layer.
- Pudding: Instant pudding mix is essential for this recipe to set properly. Do not use cook-and-serve pudding.
- Chilling: Allow the dessert to chill for at least 2 hours to ensure all layers are set and flavors meld together.
Variations
Peanut Butter Chocolate Delight
- Add Peanut Butter:
- Mix 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter into the cream cheese layer for a delicious peanut butter twist.
Mint Chocolate Delight
- Add Mint Flavor:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract to the cream cheese layer and sprinkle crushed mint candies or Andes mints on top.
Oreo Chocolate Delight
- Use Oreo Crust:
- Replace the chocolate Teddy Grahams with crushed Oreo cookies for a different type of crust.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishes
- Grated Chocolate:
- Sprinkle grated chocolate or chocolate shavings on top for extra richness.
- Chopped Nuts:
- Add more chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch.
Pairings
- Coffee or Tea:
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
- Fruit:
- Add a side of fresh berries to complement the rich flavors of the dessert.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time? A: Yes, Chocolate Delight can be made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze Chocolate Delight? A: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pudding and Cool-Whip may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool-Whip? A: Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream. Whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Q: Can I use different flavors of pudding? A: Yes, you can customize the dessert with your favorite pudding flavors. Try butterscotch, banana, or coconut for a unique twist.
Chocolate Delight is a creamy, layered dessert that is sure to impress. With its rich chocolate and vanilla pudding layers, sweet cream cheese filling, and crunchy crust, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dessert is easy to make and always a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert with your family and friends!
