No-Bake Layered Dessert (Print)
Cookie base, whipped cream and vanilla pudding layered and chilled until set for a creamy, no-bake chilled treat.
# What You Need:
→ Base Layer
01 - 7 ounces graham crackers or digestive biscuits, crushed
02 - 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cream Layer
03 - 1 2/3 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
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 cold whole milk
→ Topping
08 - 1.75 ounces chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional)
# How To Make It:
01 - Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter in a mixing bowl until mixture resembles wet sand. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking dish to create an even base layer.
02 - In a separate bowl, beat cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form.
03 - In another bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold whole milk for 2 minutes. Allow mixture to stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
04 - Spread half of the whipped cream evenly over the prepared cookie base.
05 - Spoon the vanilla pudding over the whipped cream layer and spread into an even layer using a spatula.
06 - Cover the pudding layer with the remaining whipped cream, smoothing the surface gently with a spatula.
07 - Sprinkle chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder on top, if desired. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
08 - Cut into portions and serve chilled.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- This is the kind of dessert where you get maximum wow factor for minimum effort—truly a baker's secret weapon.
- It quickly became a crowd-pleaser at gatherings because you barely need to plan ahead and it works for nearly every season.
02 -
- Once, I tried to rush the chilling step and the layers slid sadly apart—refrigeration time is sacred.
- When using different pudding flavors or cookies, you might need to reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
03 -
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for faster, fluffier whipped cream—trust me, it makes a difference.
- Layering with a gentle hand keeps the stripes distinct and the presentation stunning.