No Bake Layered Dessert (Printable version)
Layered cookies, whipped cream and vanilla pudding chilled until set for an easy, make-ahead dessert.
# What You'll Need:
→ Base Layer
01 - 7 ounces graham crackers or digestive biscuits, finely crushed
02 - 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cream Layer
03 - 1 2/3 cups heavy whipping cream, well chilled
04 - 1/3 cup powdered sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Pudding Layer
06 - 1 package (3.5 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
07 - 1 2/3 cups whole milk, cold
→ Topping
08 - 1.75 ounces chocolate shavings or cocoa powder, for garnish (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter in a mixing bowl until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking dish to create a uniform layer.
02 - In a separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer or whisk until stiff peaks are achieved.
03 - In another bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding mix and cold whole milk for about 2 minutes. Allow the mixture to stand for 5 minutes until it thickens.
04 - Spread half of the whipped cream evenly over the prepared crust.
05 - Gently spoon the vanilla pudding mixture over the whipped cream layer and smooth it to the edges.
06 - Spread the rest of the whipped cream evenly over the pudding layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
07 - Sprinkle chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder across the top if desired.
08 - Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to firm.
09 - Cut into portions and serve well chilled.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- This dessert comes together in minutes and only gets better as it sits in the fridge.
- It is endlessly adaptable—swap cookies, add fruit, or tweak the flavors to surprise everyone.
02 -
- If you rush and layer while the pudding is still runny, the whole dessert will slide apart.
- Chilling overnight seriously deepens the flavors and helps slices stay picture perfect.
03 -
- Chill your mixing bowl for whipped cream—this tiny step makes it thick and silky.
- Try layering with different cookies or puddings for endless new surprises.