Peg'S Dessert
Peg's Dessert is a luscious layered treat featuring a crunchy pecan crust, creamy cheese filling, chocolate pudding, and cool whipped topping, perfect for special occasions or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter and mix in flour and chopped pecans.
- Spread evenly in the bottom of an 11 1/2 x 7 1/2 x 1 3/4-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F.
- Allow to cool.
- Whip together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 2 cups of Cool Whip until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.
- Mix pudding and milk until well combined.
- Spread the pudding mixture over the cheese layer.
- Cover with 1/2-inch of Cool Whip.
- Grate an Almond Hershey bar and sprinkle on top.
- Refrigerate or freeze until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a perfect crust, ensure the butter is fully melted before mixing in the flour and pecans. If you don’t have Cool Whip, you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a layer of caramel sauce or using hazelnuts instead of pecans. This dessert pairs beautifully with Sour Cream Date Delights for a delightful menu.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is best served chilled, making it a refreshing end to any meal. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh berries or mint leaves. It’s also a great addition to potlucks or holiday gatherings, complementing dishes like Hot Sweet Potato Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can freeze the dessert for up to a month. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy chilled. Avoid refreezing after thawing to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peg'S Dessert contains roughly 1201 calories, with 11g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 4g 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 make Peg's Dessert a day ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the layers to set properly, enhancing the flavors. Just ensure you cover it well to prevent any absorption of odors from the fridge. This makes it an ideal make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
To make Peg's Dessert gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, like the chocolate pudding, are also labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dessert without gluten restrictions.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative or a dairy-free option, you can use silken tofu blended until smooth or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute. This will maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dietary preferences.
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).