Hamdi Saidani This Pioneer Woman Perfect Potluck Dessert is a creamy, layered crowd-pleaser, which uses chocolate cookies, cream cheese, and pudding. It’s a no-fuss take on a classic layered dessert, ideal for gatherings and potlucks.
Pioneer Woman Perfect Potluck Dessert Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray (for baking dish)
- 1/2 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans (divided)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- Splash of vanilla extract
- One 8-ounce container whipped topping (divided)
- One 5.9-ounce package chocolate instant pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
How To Make Pioneer Woman Perfect Potluck Dessert
- Prep the baking dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Make the crust: Combine crushed chocolate cookies, melted butter, and 1/2 cup chopped pecans directly in the dish. Press into an even layer and bake for 5–7 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese layer: Beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in half the whipped topping and spread over the cooled crust.
- Add the pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Top and chill: Spread remaining whipped topping over the pudding. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and remaining 1/4 cup pecans. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, it actually tastes better chilled overnight.
- What kind of cookies work best? Use Oreo-style chocolate sandwich cookies with the cream.
- Can I use a different pudding flavor? Yes, vanilla or butterscotch are great swaps.
- How to make it nut-free: Skip the pecans or replace with crushed pretzels.
- Best way to serve: Cut into squares and serve cold with a small spatula.
What To Serve With This Dessert
This potluck dessert pairs well with:
- Coffee or iced coffee
- Fruit salad
- Ice cream on the side
- Whipped cream or chocolate drizzle
- Light cookies or tea biscuits
How To Store Perfect Potluck Dessert
Refrigerate: Cover tightly and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap the entire dish or slices and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge before serving.
Potluck Dessert Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 289.9
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, just whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff.
What size dish should I use if doubling the recipe?
A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly.
Can I use reduced-fat ingredients?
Yes, reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping work well.
How long should I chill it?
At least 1 hour, but 2–3 hours or overnight is even better.
What if the pudding is too soft?
Let it set for a few extra minutes before layering.
Try More Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Blueberry Yogurt Smoothie
- Pioneer Woman 2-Ingredient Blueberry Syrup
- Pioneer Woman Fluffy Whipped Blueberry Butter
Pioneer Woman Perfect Potluck Dessert
Description
A layered dessert made with a cookie crust, creamy filling, and chocolate pudding—easy to make and always a hit at parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray an 8-inch dish.
- Mix cookies, butter, and 1/2 cup pecans. Press into dish and bake 5–7 minutes. Cool.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. Fold in half the whipped topping. Spread over crust.
- Whisk pudding mix with milk. Spread over cream cheese layer.
- Top with remaining whipped topping, chocolate chips, and pecans. Chill 1 hour before serving.
