Five Layer Cake

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A rich, creamy five-layer cake featuring chocolate pudding, Cool Whip, and a buttery crust, perfect for celebrations and special occasions with a delightful chocolate flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 2 sticks butter
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 large carton Cool Whip
  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
  • 1 large package chocolate instant pudding

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a 9 x 12-inch pan.
  2. Mix in flour and sugar.
  3. Bake at 350°F until browned.
  4. Allow the crust to cool.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If you want a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pudding mix for extra depth. For those who prefer a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Serving Suggestions

This Five Layer Cake is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Consider serving it alongside Golden Scones for a delightful brunch spread. Fresh berries or a fruit salad can also complement the richness of the cake, making it a well-rounded dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Five Layer Cake contains roughly 316 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).

316 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.1g 10% DV
Total Fat 20.3g 26% DV
Carbs 30.4g 11% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 0.7g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 144.5mg 6% DV
Potassium 296.3mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 44.1mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 69.6mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 14.7mg 16% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 52.8mg 4% DV
Iron 1.2mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 type of pudding for this cake?

Yes, you can easily substitute the chocolate instant pudding with vanilla or butterscotch for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and color of the cake will change, but it will still be delicious.

How do I prevent the crust from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, make sure to generously grease the pan with butter or non-stick spray before adding the batter. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for an extra layer of protection when removing the cake.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will provide a fresh taste and a creamy texture that works wonderfully in this recipe.

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).

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