Dessert For Twenty Or Death By Chocolate
A decadent layered chocolate dessert combining moist cake, creamy pudding, whipped topping, and crunchy Heath bars, perfect for parties and chocolate lovers seeking a rich, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the chocolate cake as directed in a 13 x 9-inch pan and cool.
- Cut the cooled cake into 1-inch squares.
- Mix the chocolate pudding with 8 cups of milk until thickened.
- Chop the Heath bars in a blender into small pieces.
- Layer the cake squares, pudding, Cool Whip, and Heath bars in a container or punch bowl.
- Repeat the layering to make three layers.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding mix. If you want a slightly less sweet version, substitute half of the chocolate pudding with a vanilla pudding mix. For a fun twist, try adding crushed Oreos or nuts between layers. Ensure the cake is completely cool before cutting to maintain its shape.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a fruit salad or a light dessert like Rhubarb Strawberry Rolls. Garnish with additional crushed Heath bars on top for an impressive finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent the layers from becoming soggy, it's best to keep the layers separate until ready to serve. Simply reassemble the layers for a fresh presentation before enjoying your dessert again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dessert For Twenty Or Death By Chocolate contains roughly 856 calories, with 13g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% 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 use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cake mix with any flavor you prefer, such as vanilla or red velvet. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor will change, but it can create a unique twist on this dessert.
How can I make this dessert ahead of time?
This dessert is ideal for making ahead! It can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the taste, so it's a great choice for parties and gatherings.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure that the pudding and any other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious layers without gluten.
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).