Coconut Butterscotch Dessert
A rich coconut butterscotch dessert featuring toasted coconut, creamy pudding layers, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for gatherings and those craving indulgent, tropical-inspired treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toast 1 cup of coconut on a baking sheet at 375°F for approximately 10 minutes, stirring often until light brown.
- Mix flour, butter, and 1 1/4 cups of finely diced walnuts together; add only 3/4 cup of walnuts to the mixture.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added texture, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of flaked coconut. If you're looking for a nut-free option, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds. Mixing the butterscotch and vanilla puddings can enhance the flavor, but feel free to use just one if preferred. Make sure to let the crust cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer for best results.
Serving Suggestions
This Coconut Butterscotch Dessert is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness. It pairs beautifully with Tim'S 5 Minute Salad for a balanced meal. Consider garnishing with additional toasted coconut or chopped walnuts for a decorative touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the dessert into portions and microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just until warmed through without melting the layers. This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so you can also serve it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coconut Butterscotch Dessert contains roughly 2550 calories, with 27g protein, 268g carbohydrates, and 159g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 675mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure it is well covered and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier when served the next day.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or whipped mascarpone cheese. This will give a similar creamy texture while reducing the calorie count.
Is it possible to freeze this dessert?
While it is possible to freeze the dessert, the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).