Peggy'S Almond Delight
Peggy's Almond Delight is a rich layered dessert featuring crunchy almonds, coconut, vanilla pudding, and a creamy topping, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together margarine, brown sugar, coconut, chopped almonds, and flour.
- Bake the mixture at 350°F in a 9 x 12-inch dish, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Allow the baked mixture to cool completely.
- Remove one-third of the cooled mixture and set aside for topping.
- In a bowl, mix the instant vanilla pudding and milk, beating until well blended.
- Add Cool Whip to the pudding mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the baked layer.
- Sprinkle the reserved one-third of the baked mixture on top as a topping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the almonds altogether or replace them with sunflower seeds. To enhance the coconut flavor, use unsweetened coconut flakes. Be sure to stir the mixture frequently while baking to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Peggy's Almond Delight chilled for the best texture. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence. You can also enjoy it alongside a cup of Sleepy Time Cocoa for a comforting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the baked layer and the pudding mixture separately, then combine them when ready to serve. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before assembly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Almond Delight contains roughly 852 calories, with 21g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute regular granulated sugar for brown sugar. However, using brown sugar adds a deeper flavor and moisture to the recipe, which enhances the overall taste. If you want a similar flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of molasses to the granulated sugar.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use dairy-free margarine and a plant-based milk alternative, like almond or soy milk, to make this recipe dairy-free. Additionally, opt for a dairy-free whipped topping to mix with the pudding for a creamy finish without dairy.
Can I add fresh fruit to this dessert?
Yes, fresh fruit can be a delightful addition! Sliced bananas, strawberries, or even blueberries can enhance the flavor and add freshness. Just layer them on top of the pudding mixture before adding the reserved baked topping for a beautiful presentation.
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).