No Bake Layered Dessert (Printable Version)
Layered no-bake dessert with a cookie base, whipped cream and vanilla pudding—chill until set for easy, elegant slices.
# What You'll 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 cold heavy whipping cream
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 - 2 ounces chocolate shavings or unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)
# Method:
01 - Combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter in a mixing bowl until thoroughly integrated. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking dish to create an even crust.
02 - Whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a separate bowl using an electric mixer or whisk until stiff peaks are achieved.
03 - In another bowl, vigorously whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold whole milk for 2 minutes. Allow the mixture to stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
04 - Spread half of the whipped cream evenly over the prepared base crust.
05 - Distribute the vanilla pudding evenly over the first layer of whipped cream.
06 - Arrange the remaining whipped cream on top of the pudding layer and smooth gently with a spatula.
07 - Sprinkle the surface with chocolate shavings or dust lightly with cocoa powder, if desired.
08 - Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set completely.
09 - Slice into individual servings and serve chilled.
# Chef's Tips:
01 -
- It’s like having a bakery-worthy treat with almost no sweat and zero oven heat.
- The contrast between cool cream, silky pudding, and crumbly cookie base turns every bite into a little celebration.
02 -
- If you skip the chilling step, the layers will slide and the dessert turns into a delicious mess (learned that after the third time).
- Using full-fat cream and milk makes all the difference for that dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth spoonful.
03 -
- Chill both your bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best results.
- Briefly pop the assembled dessert in the freezer for 10 minutes if you’re short on time and want sharp layers.