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Home » Recipes » Desserts

Modified: Jul 3, 2025 · Published: Sep 14, 2023 by LaKita · This post may contain affiliate links.

Best Chocolate Delight Recipe (Easy Layered Dessert)

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Close up view of piece of delight on white plate with a fork.
Overhead view of finished chocolate delight in glass baking dish.
Close up view of piece of dessert on white plate
Close up of fork with dessert on it.
Overhead view of finished chocolate delight in glass baking dish with text overlay pin.
Four photo on pin with overlay to show the process to make a chocolate delight recipe.

Creamy, dreamy, and irresistibly nostalgic. This Chocolate Delight is a layered dessert made for potlucks, holidays, and sweet cravings. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and no one can stop at just one slice.

Updated July 2025 with new tips, FAQs, and updated instructions for clean layers and better chilling. Originally posted February 2014.

Close up side view of piece of chocolate delight on white plate.

Here's what readers have to say about this recipe:

Reader Sabrina, commented: "I've had this recipe so long the ink was fading and needed an exact replaceable recipe and this is it.. thanks ★★★★★"

Another reader Jenn, commented: "I have not made this DELICIOUS dessert in years--so I couldn't find my recipe. The other ones online looked wrong, but I know from your ingredient list this is correct! I'm so excited, thank you for publishing this! ★★★★★"

Jump to:
  • Why You'll Love This Recipe
  • Before You Make This Chocolate Delight
  • Ingredients You'll Need
  • 📖 Recipe
  • LaKita's Tips For the Best Chocolate Delight 
  • Recipe Variations & Substitutions
  • Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
  • FAQs
  • What to Serve with Chocolate Delight
  • More Dessert Recipes You'll Love

Growing up in a neighborhood where everyone shared their table, cooking became second nature to me. Church potlucks were a favorite, packed with home-cooked dishes and sweet treats that left a lasting impression. One of those desserts, this Chocolate Delight, has stuck with me ever since. It's easy to make, full of flavor, and reminds me of those Sundays filled with food, family, and community.

It has it all: a buttery pecan crust, layers of sweetened cream cheese, silky chocolate pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping. Whether you're headed to a potluck, Sunday dinner, or just want something sweet in the fridge, this no-bake dessert hits the spot every time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • No-Bake Layers: Once the crust is baked, the rest is chill and layer. No stovetop or oven required.
  • Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: Gets even better as it rests. Ideal for prepping a day ahead.
  • Crowd Favorite: This is always one of the first desserts to disappear at any gathering.
  • Classic Comfort: Creamy, crunchy, chocolatey layers that never go out of style.

Before You Make This Chocolate Delight

  • Softened Cream Cheese - Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature so it blends smoothly.
  • Pudding Mix - Use instant pudding mix, not cook-and-serve. We want it to thicken fast and chill easily.
  • Whipped Topping - You can use store-bought or make your own stabilized whipped cream.
  • Chill Time - This dessert needs at least 3 hours in the fridge to set properly, overnight is even better.

Ingredients You'll Need

overhead view of ingredients needed to make chocolate delight in separate bowls on marble surface

Crust:

  • All-Purpose Flour - Plain flour gives structure to the crust and helps it hold together.
  • Butter - Use melted butter to bind the crust ingredients. Salted or unsalted butter both work.
  • Pecans - Finely chopped pecans add crunch and nutty flavor to the base layer.
  • Salt (optional) - A pinch helps balance the sweetness. If using salted butter, you can omit.

Layers:

  • Cream Cheese - Use full-fat cream cheese for richness. Let it come to room temperature before mixing.
  • Powdered Sugar - Also called confectioners’ sugar, sweetens the cream cheese layer.
  • Whipped Topping (Cool Whip) - Adds lightness to both the cream layer and the topping. Thaw before using. Substitute with homemade whipped cream if preferred.
  • Instant Chocolate Pudding - Be sure it’s instant, not cook-and-serve. This forms the rich chocolate layer.
  • Milk - Cold whole milk helps the pudding set. Don’t substitute with non-dairy or low-fat unless tested.

👉🏾 See the recipe card below for exact quantities and full instructions.

📖 Recipe

Close up side view of piece of chocolate delight on white plate with the rest of the dessert in the background.

Chocolate Delight

LaKita Anderson
This Chocolate Delight recipe layers pudding, cream cheese, whipped topping, and a pecan crust for the perfect no-bake dessert.
4.88 from 32 votes
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Video

Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Resting Time 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 40 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 hand mixer

Ingredients
  

  • Crust:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans, divided
  • Pinch of salt (unless you use salted butter, then skip this step)
  • Layers:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 16 ounces Whipped Topping (Cool Whip), divided
  • 2 3.9 ounce boxes instant chocolate pudding
  • 3 cups whole milk

Instructions
 

  • Begin the easy chocolate delight recipe by preheating the oven to 300 degrees F. Grab a 13x9-inch rectangle baking dish.
  • In a medium bowl, stir together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup softened butter, 1 ½ cups chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt until combined. A food processor can be used instead. The mixture will be clumpy and will loosely stick together.
    Overhead view of crust ingredients added to a glass mixing bowl.
  • Pour into the baking dish and evenly press into the bottom in a single layer. Place into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until light golden brown. Carefully remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool completely before continuing. 
    Overhead view of baked crust in glass baking dish.
  • Using a hand mixer with a large bowl, add the 8 ounces softened cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar. Mix until creamy and smooth. Add 8 ounces of whipped topping and use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
    Overhead view of cream cheese layer ingredients combined in glass mixing bowl.
  • Create the next layer by adding the cream cheese mixture to the cooled crust layer. Spread evenly to form a second layer. 
    Cream cheese layer added on top of cooled crust in baking dish.
  • Using an electric mixer on medium speed and a large bowl, mix together the 2 3.9 ounce boxes of instant chocolate pudding and 3 cups milk for two minutes until combined and soft set.
    Chocolate pudding mix and milk combined in glass mixing bowl with hand mixer.
  • Evenly spread the chocolate pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer to create the third layer.  
    Chocolate pudding layer added to other dessert layers in glass baking dish.
  • Lastly evenly spread the remaining 8 ounces whipped topping on top of the pudding layer. Sprinkle the top with the remaining chopped pecans. 
    Overhead view of finished chocolate delight in glass baking dish.
  • Place the chocolate delight dessert into the refrigerator allow it to chill and set for 2 to 3 hours before cutting to serve. Enjoy!
  • Serve immediately and store any leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use an offset spatula to evenly spread each layer for a clean, professional finish.
  • Chill the finished dessert in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours before serving. In a pinch, place it in the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes.
  • For perfect slices, place the dessert in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes, then slice using a sharp knife warmed under hot water. Wipe the blade clean between cuts.
  • Always mix the instant pudding with cold milk to ensure a smooth texture and a quick soft set.
  • Let the dessert sit out for 5–10 minutes before slicing if very cold.
  • For extra chocolate flavor, layer in mini chocolate chips or ganache between pudding and whipped topping.
  • Use clear or glass pans to showcase the layers!
 
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 5gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 130mgPotassium: 168mgFiber: 1gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 468IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

The provided nutritional information is an estimate per serving. Accuracy is not guaranteed.

Keyword chocolate delight
Tried This Recipe?Leave a comment below or tag @simplylakita on social!
Overhead view of finished chocolate delight in rectangle glass baking dish on wooden cutting board.

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LaKita's Tips For the Best Chocolate Delight 

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture.
  • Chill between layers if your kitchen is warm to help each layer set before adding the next.
  • Clean cuts: Run a knife under hot water and wipe clean between slices for neat layers.
  • Customize the crust: Swap pecans for walnuts or use a graham cracker crust for a different twist. Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust or try a nut crust without flour.
Close up side view of slice of chocolate delight on white plate with the rest in the background.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Vanilla Delight: Swap the chocolate pudding for instant vanilla pudding to create a Vanilla Delight. Follow the rest of the recipe as written.
  • Chocolate Shavings: Just before serving, grate a chocolate bar using a cheese grater or vegetable peeler and sprinkle over the top for an elegant finishing touch.
  • Shortbread Crust Option: Replace the flour and chopped pecans in the crust with 24 pecan shortbread cookies. Pulse in a food processor, then mix with melted butter to form a flavorful cookie crust.
  • Homemade Whipped Cream: Instead of whipped topping, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This makes a rich, homemade alternative to Cool Whip.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the fridge covered for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Let thaw in the fridge before serving, note that texture may slightly soften.
  • Make-Ahead: You can make this dessert up to 2 days in advance. Just wait to garnish the top until ready to serve.
Close up view of piece of dessert on white plate with a fork in it.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes! Just make sure it’s stabilized (with powdered sugar or gelatin) so it holds up in the fridge.

What size pan should I use?

A 9x13-inch pan is perfect. You can halve the recipe for an 8x8 dish.

Do I need to bake the crust?

Yes. Baking the crust helps it hold together and gives the dessert its signature texture.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wipe clean between cuts, and make sure the dessert is well-chilled.

What to Serve with Chocolate Delight

Pair this rich dessert with:

  • Fresh berries or a fruit salad
  • A cup of coffee or espresso
  • Mini cheesecakes or vanilla pudding cups for variety on a dessert table.
Close up of fork with dessert on it with the rest on a white plate in the background.

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Leave a comment and rating below to let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to tag @simplylakita on Instagram so I can see your creation.

💌 From my kitchen to yours, happy eating!

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Comments

    4.88 from 32 votes (14 ratings without comment)

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    Recipe Rating




  1. Patricia Burroughs says

    November 23, 2024 at 8:57 am

    5 stars
    I'm so happy to find this recipe here. It has always been a favorite of my family's. My grandson requested it for our church Thanksgiving meal tomorrow and I could not find my well used recipe. It is simple and delicious....a true DELIGHT!!!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      November 27, 2024 at 11:43 am

      Thank you so much for sharing Patricia! It makes me so happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed the chocolate delight recipe 🙂

      Reply
  2. Shirley Edmonds says

    August 05, 2024 at 5:58 pm

    Since the crust will be baked, should I spray the baking dish with Pam first?

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      August 12, 2024 at 2:46 pm

      Yes, you can it certainly won't hurt anything.

      Reply
  3. Billie Jean says

    June 23, 2024 at 3:06 pm

    If you are making the pecan Sandies crust and butter do you still have to bake it?

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      July 05, 2024 at 7:29 pm

      Yes, at least until it is golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.

      Reply
  4. Jamie says

    September 26, 2023 at 2:49 am

    5 stars
    Wow! This Chocolate Delight looks absolutely delicious! It has an amazing layer of different flavors. A mouth-watering dessert that everyone will love!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:27 pm

      Thank you so much Jamie, much appreciated!

      Reply
    • Laney says

      April 18, 2024 at 10:41 am

      Can I use stabilized fresh whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

      Reply
      • LaKita says

        May 13, 2024 at 8:14 pm

        Hi Laney, yes it should work without any problem!

        Reply
  5. Lisa says

    September 25, 2023 at 10:54 am

    5 stars
    Give me all the sweet chocolate desserts! And anything creamy is my type of treat!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:26 pm

      Thank you Lisa, I agree, never enough chocolate dessert recipes!

      Reply
  6. Veronika says

    September 25, 2023 at 1:16 am

    5 stars
    All the layers may sound like a lot of work at first but the whole thing was so easy to make! Plus it's so good it's totally worth the effort!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:26 pm

      Thank you Veronika! It is a simple process but so worth it 🙂

      Reply
  7. Sean says

    September 24, 2023 at 2:40 pm

    5 stars
    This chocolate delight was a hit at my last game night. My friends couldn't get enough.

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:23 pm

      Thank you Sean, glad to hear the dessert was a hit!!

      Reply
  8. Jenny says

    September 24, 2023 at 7:57 am

    5 stars
    My grandma used to make a similar dessert and for years I have been looking for a recipe like it. And this is it! Wow I am amazed! Your recipe makes me so happy. Thanks a million!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:23 pm

      Thank you Jenny!! That makes me so happy to hear 🙂

      Reply
  9. Amy Liu Dong says

    September 24, 2023 at 2:27 am

    5 stars
    I made this, it is so easy and delicious that even my kids love it!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:23 pm

      Thank you Amy, happy to hear this recipe is kid approved 🙂

      Reply
  10. Amanda says

    September 23, 2023 at 9:29 am

    5 stars
    I made this last night for some friends how came over. Amazing dessert! The cream cheese added a decadent touch, and that rich chocolate layer was perfection.

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:22 pm

      Thank you Amanda! The cream cheese really does add a touch of richness!!

      Reply
  11. Cathleen says

    September 19, 2023 at 9:18 pm

    5 stars
    I am so excited to make this over the weekend! This looks amazing, thank you so much for sharing this recipe 🙂

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:21 pm

      Thank you Cathleen! I hope you get a chance to try making it soon 🙂

      Reply
  12. veenaazmanov says

    September 19, 2023 at 9:06 pm

    5 stars
    This looks so soft and chocolaty. This delicious dessert is just perfect to make my guest happy. Perfect for my next treat.

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:21 pm

      Thank you, I agree it is a great treat to share!

      Reply
  13. Colleen says

    September 19, 2023 at 3:48 pm

    5 stars
    What a delicious, creamy sweet treat this chocolate delight dessert is! Thanks for the recipe!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      September 26, 2023 at 6:20 pm

      Thank you so much Colleen, happy to hear that you enjoyed the recipe!

      Reply
  14. Joanne L Marcuson says

    February 28, 2020 at 2:41 pm

    5 stars
    Thank you for the recipe! My Mom used to make it years ago and I misplaced her receipe. I Google it and yours came up.
    Cant wait for our neighbors to come over tonight for game night and eat this yummy looking dessert! Thanks again!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      February 28, 2020 at 4:39 pm

      Thank you and welcome Joanne, glad you found this recipe for chocolate delight. Enjoy!

      Reply
  15. Joanne L Marcuson says

    February 28, 2020 at 2:36 pm

    5 stars
    Thank you for the receipe! I used lemon pudding and cant wait until tonight for our neighbors to come over for game night and this yummy dessert!

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      February 28, 2020 at 4:40 pm

      I have never had it with lemon pudding, but that sounds amazing! Will definitely give it a try soon! Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
  16. Nelda Sue Ludwig says

    January 30, 2020 at 8:35 pm

    I make this with vanilla pudding, but the chocolate is a five star and my family likes both of these.

    Reply
    • LaKita says

      February 04, 2020 at 11:00 am

      Thank you! I agree and it is delicious with vanilla pudding as well!!

      Reply
  17. Lauren F says

    February 12, 2014 at 5:24 am

    This. Looks. Amazing. That's pretty much all I have to say about that. Too bad it's midnight right now...or this would be happening in the kitchen. Until tomorrow...

    Reply
    • admin says

      February 12, 2014 at 2:20 pm

      Thank you! Midnight is a little late, but you can make these any other time 🙂

      Reply
      • Victoria says

        July 10, 2024 at 2:44 am

        5 stars
        Thank you SO much for this recipe!! My mom and aunt used to make chocolate delight when I was a kid, but I’ve never had their recipe. Haven’t had it in years, so I decided to give it a shot! So quick and easy to put together, my first attempt was a hit! It was gone in 2 days in my house. It’s currently 2 am and I’m making it again bc my mother in law and I had sweet craving and we couldn’t get enough the first time!

        Reply
        • LaKita says

          July 18, 2024 at 10:04 am

          Hi Victoria! Thank you for sharing this and I'm so happy to hear that you're enjoying the chocolate delight recipe! This is a favorite in my home as well and doesn't ever last long 😉

          Reply
  18. Keri says

    February 11, 2014 at 7:24 pm

    Lakita, I have not had Chocolate Delight in ages. My MIL makes Strawberry Delight often as my husband loves it, but I much prefer Chocolate Delight. Pinning and hope to make soon! #SITSBlogging

    Reply
    • admin says

      February 12, 2014 at 4:10 am

      Thanks Keri...Strawberry Delight sounds great! I will have to give that a try next time.

      Reply
  19. Lara says

    February 11, 2014 at 4:03 pm

    Stopping by to leave some comment love!
    This looks delicious! And I think that I have had the pleasure of munching on this at one of my church functions. Thank you so much for sharing this recipe!

    #SITSBlogging

    Reply
    • admin says

      February 12, 2014 at 2:16 am

      Thank you so much! It is pretty good and doesn't take much to be a success.

      Reply
  20. Angela Gilmore says

    February 04, 2014 at 6:05 pm

    Oh my! This looks so good! I could see eating it with some fresh fruit. I haven't been to a potluck in so long, but you are right that it is the perfect place to get new recipes and you have the convenience of asking the chef how to make it!

    Reply
    • admin says

      February 06, 2014 at 1:49 am

      Thank you! It would be good with some fruit...that's a great idea. I love pot-lucks for that very reason.

      Reply
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Hi, I'm LaKita. I'm a Lifelong home cook and self-taught baker. I've been sharing modern comfort food through food blogging, recipe development, and photography since 2013.

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