Phil'S Favorite
A creamy, tangy layered dessert featuring a buttery crust, lemon or chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and optional nuts, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whip together flour and margarine with a mixer. Add chopped walnuts or pecans if desired.
- Pat the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan or baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Let cool.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Fold in Cool Whip and confectioners sugar until well combined.
- Add the instant pudding mix and blend thoroughly.
- Spread the filling over the cooled crust.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're allergic to nuts or prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans. You can also substitute the lemon pudding with vanilla or chocolate for a different twist. To save time, use a pre-made crust instead of making your own from scratch, which is similar to recipes like Bitsy'S Best Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful treat as a light dessert after dinner or at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, adding a refreshing contrast. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside other sweet treats like Kolacky Cookies or a slice of Supreme Chocolate Pie for a dessert buffet that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served chilled, so there's no need to reheat it. If you want to prepare it in advance, make the crust and filling separately, then assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Phil'S Favorite contains roughly 1652 calories, with 23g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 772mg per serving (34% 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
How can I make this dessert more festive for a special occasion?
To make this dessert more festive, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit on top, like berries or sliced kiwis, before serving. You could also garnish with lemon zest or mint leaves for a pop of color. Serving it in individual cups can also add a fun touch for parties or gatherings.
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).