Chocolate Lush

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Lush is a crowd-pleaser: simple no-fuss preparation (aside from baking the crust), make-ahead convenience, and irresistible layers of texture and taste. The cool, creamy layers are perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For crust:
  1 cup all-purpose flour
  ½ cup butter, softened or melted
  ½ cup chopped pecans

• Cream cheese layer:
  8 oz cream cheese, softened
  1 cup powdered sugar
  ½ of a 16 oz container Cool Whip

• Chocolate pudding layer:
  2 packets (3.4–3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
  3 cups cold milk

• Topping:
  Remaining Cool Whip (about 8 oz)
  ½ cup chopped pecans
  Chocolate syrup, for drizzling

directions

1. Crust: Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Mix flour, butter, and pecans until crumbly. Press into a 9×13 pan and bake 15–20 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

2. Cream cheese layer: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half the Cool Whip. Spread evenly over cooled crust.

3. Pudding layer: Whisk pudding mix with milk for about 2 minutes until thickened. Pour over cream cheese layer, spreading evenly.

4. Topping: Spread remaining Cool Whip atop pudding. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and drizzle with chocolate syrup.

5. Chill: Refrigerate at least 4 hours—overnight is best—to allow layers to set fully.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12–18, depending on slice size.

• Prep time: ~20 minutes (plus ~15 minutes bake time).

• Chill time: Minimum 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.

• Total time: Approximately 4 hours 35 minutes to overnight.

Variations

• Nut swap: Use walnuts or skip nuts for nut-free.

• Crust options: Try graham cracker or Oreo crumbs for more flavor.

• Pudding twist: Swap in butterscotch or caramel pudding.

• Homemade whipped cream: Replace Cool Whip with real whipped cream (keep it stable by adding a stabilizer).

• Garnishes: Top with chocolate shavings, mini chips, or extra pecans.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Cover and keep refrigerated up to 4 days. Crust may soften over time.

• Freezing: Not recommended—texture suffers.

• Serving: Serve chilled—no reheating needed.

FAQs

What pan size is best?

A 9×13" baking dish is standard and perfectly fits the layered ingredients.

Can I prepare it the night before?

Absolutely—make it the evening prior and refrigerate overnight for the best texture.

Can I skip baking the crust?

Yes—switch to a no-bake crust such as Oreo or graham cracker, pressed firmly into the pan.

What pudding type should I use?

Use instant pudding, not cook-and-serve, for proper setting.

Can I substitute real whipped cream?

Yes, with homemade whipped cream, but note it may deflate faster than store-bought.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill thoroughly, use a sharp knife—wiping between cuts helps preserve clean layers.

Can I refrigerate leftover slices?

Yes—cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days; crust will soften though.

Is this dessert nut-free friendly?

Yes—omit pecans from crust and topping to make it nut-free.

Can I make it smaller?

Yes—use an 8×8 dish and halve ingredients; chill time remains the same.

What if I only have 3 cups of milk for pudding?

Stick to recipe quantities (3 cups per 2 pudding packets) for correct consistency—adjust instant pudding or milk volume proportionally if scaling.

Conclusion

Chocolate Lush is a timeless, no-hassle dessert that delivers luxury in every bite. With creamy layers, rich chocolate, and a satisfying crunch, it's perfect for entertaining or sweet cravings. Make it ahead, chill, and savor each decadent slice.

Print