Striped Delight Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Striped Delight is more than just a pretty layered dessert—it's incredibly easy to put together with simple ingredients and minimal prep time. This no-bake treat requires just 15 minutes to prepare, yet it delivers a showstopping presentation and a flavor profile that appeals to kids and adults alike. Each layer adds its own delicious twist, from the buttery graham cracker base to the rich chocolate pudding and the light, fluffy topping.

ingredients

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

Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Butter, melted

• Sugar

Pudding Layer

• Instant chocolate pudding (4-serving size packages)

• Cold milk

Cream Cheese Layer

• Sugar

• Cream cheese

• Cool Whip, thawed

• Milk

Topping

• Cool Whip

• Hershey’s bar (optional)

directions

1. Prepare the Crust
   In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well.
   Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Refrigerate while preparing the layers.

2. Make the Pudding Layer
   In another bowl, whisk together the pudding mixes and cold milk until well blended. Refrigerate for about 5 minutes, until thickened.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
   Beat cream cheese, sugar, and milk in a bowl using a wire whisk or mixer until smooth.
   Gently fold in Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.

4. Assemble the Layers
   Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
   Spoon the chocolate pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.

5. Final Topping
   Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the pudding layer.
   Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings made from a Hershey’s bar.

6. Chill and Serve
   Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 16 squares and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare. Since it requires at least 2 hours of refrigeration time, it’s best made ahead. No baking is required.

Variations

• Oreo Base: Substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreos for a richer crust.

• Vanilla Pudding Layer: Use vanilla pudding instead of chocolate for a different flavor profile.

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of peanut butter into the cream cheese layer for a nutty twist.

• Minty Touch: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the pudding for a refreshing flavor.

• Fruit Topping: Top with fresh berries instead of chocolate shavings for a fruity finish.

storage/reheating

Store Striped Delight in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Because it contains dairy and whipped topping, it should not be kept at room temperature for extended periods. This dessert does not freeze well, as the texture of the cream layers may change when thawed.

FAQs

What is Striped Delight?

Striped Delight is a layered dessert with a graham cracker crust, cream cheese and Cool Whip layer, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream, but the consistency may differ slightly.

How long does Striped Delight need to chill?

It should chill for at least 2 hours to set the layers properly.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely, it’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties and gatherings.

Is it gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free graham crackers to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Yes, you can experiment with vanilla, banana, or even butterscotch pudding.

Can I freeze Striped Delight?

Freezing is not recommended as the layers may become watery upon thawing.

What size pan should I use?

A 9×13 inch baking dish works best for this recipe.

How can I make it more chocolatey?

Add chocolate chips or a chocolate ganache drizzle over the top layer.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even shortbread cookies can be used as alternatives.

Conclusion

Striped Delight is the ultimate easy dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better. With its luscious layers and delightful textures, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite at any event. Give it a try and enjoy a sweet treat that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.

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