4 Layer Cream Cheese Pudding Dessert Recipe

Indulge in this incredibly easy 4-Layer Cream Cheese Pudding Dessert! This delightful recipe is surprisingly simple to make, yet tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery. Customize it with your favorite pudding flavor – chocolate and vanilla are classic choices – and impress your friends and family with this unbelievably delicious treat. Topped with creamy Cool Whip and a hint of toasted coconut (optional), it's the perfect dessert for any occasion!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 556.2 kcal
Protein 16g
Rating 3.9 (21 Reviews)
4 Layer Cream Cheese Pudding Dessert

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for 4 Layer Cream Cheese Pudding Dessert

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) softened margarine
  • 8 ounces softened cream cheese
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
  • Instant Pudding Mix
  • Milk as specified on the pudding package instructions
  • Coconut

How to Make 4 Layer Cream Cheese Pudding Dessert

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts recommended), and ½ cup (1 stick) softened margarine. Mix until crumbly.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 13x9 inch baking pan.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
  5. While the crust is cooling, in a separate bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, and 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip) until smooth and creamy.
  6. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
  7. In a medium bowl, prepare your favorite pudding according to package directions (using the milk amount specified on the package).
  8. Gently pour the prepared pudding over the cream cheese layer.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the pudding is set.
  10. Before serving, spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the pudding layer.
  11. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

26 g

Sugar

182g

Fat

78g

Carbs

21g