Pudding Squares
Creamy pudding squares with a crunchy walnut crust, layered with sweet cream cheese and flavored pudding, perfect for a cool, indulgent dessert enjoyed by family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, ground walnuts, and oleo until crumbly; press into a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until light brown. Cool the crust.
- Mix cream cheese, confectioners sugar, and half of the Cool Whip, then spread this mixture over the cooled crust.
- Mix 2 packages of instant pudding with 3 cups of milk until well combined.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining half of Cool Whip.
- Refrigerate the dessert and cut into squares when serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, you can substitute pecans for the walnuts. Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the mixture. You can also use a low-fat version of Cool Whip if you prefer a lighter dessert. Consider adding a layer of fruit, such as sliced strawberries or bananas, on top for an added freshness, which pairs beautifully with the pudding squares.
Serving Suggestions
These pudding squares make for a delightful dessert at gatherings or potlucks. Serve them chilled for the best flavor and texture. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for a more indulgent treat. For a festive touch, garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture of the Cool Whip, avoid freezing the dessert as it can become watery upon thawing. When ready to serve, simply cut into squares directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pudding Squares contains roughly 374 calories, with 8g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can definitely substitute homemade whipped cream for the Cool Whip. Just make sure to whip it to stiff peaks for the best results. This will give your pudding squares a fresh taste and a nice texture, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
What kind of pudding flavors work best for this recipe?
Vanilla and chocolate are classic choices that complement the creamy layers well. However, you can also experiment with butterscotch or pistachio pudding for a unique twist. Mixing flavors can create an interesting layered effect as well, so feel free to get creative!
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for entertaining since it requires no last-minute preparation, making it a popular choice for 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).