Ingredients for Chocolate Delight
- For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- For the cream cheese layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- For the chocolate pudding layer:
- 2 (3.9 oz) boxes of instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- For the topping:
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
- Shaved chocolate or additional chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make Chocolate Delight, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls – for preparing each layer.
- Whisk or electric mixer – to combine the ingredients smoothly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – to assemble the dessert.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measurements.
- Spatula – for spreading each layer evenly.
How to Make Chocolate Delight
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the layers.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until well blended. Once the crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, or until the pudding thickens. Let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to set. Once set, spread the pudding layer over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the chocolate pudding layer. Make sure the whipped topping covers the entire surface evenly.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
For an extra touch, garnish the top with shaved chocolate or chopped pecans. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
Step 6: Serve
Cut into squares and serve chilled. This dessert is best served cold, allowing all the layers to hold together nicely.