Are you craving a delicious dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This layered pudding recipe is the perfect answer for those busy weeknights or when you're simply looking for a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat. It's one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly impressive, perfect for potlucks or a special family dinner. Get ready to dive into a world of creamy textures and sweet flavors! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, providing a satisfying end to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (14 ounces) chocolate sandwich cookies, roughly crushed
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted (optional)
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and creamy. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the pudding to fully thicken. This homemade cooking method ensures a perfectly creamy texture.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Step 3: Layer the Dessert
In a clear glass serving dish or individual glasses, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, followed by a layer of vanilla pudding, and then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.
Step 4: Add Optional Extras
If desired, drizzle melted semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top layer of whipped cream for an extra touch of chocolatey goodness. This is a great way to elevate this already delicious dessert.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the layered pudding for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill completely. Garnish with extra whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cookies. Oreos, gingersnaps, or even digestive biscuits would work well.
- Add a layer of fresh berries or fruit for a refreshing twist.
- If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Adjust sweetness to your preference.
- For a fun presentation, use individual glasses or small bowls instead of a large dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a typical serving contains roughly 300-350 calories, 15-20g of fat, and 25-30g of sugar. This is an approximate value and should be used as a guide only. For accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients used.
This layered pudding recipe is a perfect example of a delicious dish that's easy to make and customizable to your preferences. It's a simple dessert recipe that yields a stunning and tasty result, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Enjoy this simple yet impressive treat!