Ruth Ann'S Pudding Dessert
A rich, creamy pudding dessert layered with nuts and a buttery crust, perfect for gatherings and those craving a sweet, nutty treat with a hint of chocolate or lemon flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted margarine, flour, and 3/4 cup chopped nuts.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the cream cheese. If you're not a fan of pecans or walnuts, any nut or even a seed like sunflower seeds can work well. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing, especially the cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pudding dessert chilled for a refreshing treat. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor. Consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful end to any meal. For a fun twist, try adding a layer of peppermint taffy for a seasonal variation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ruth Ann's Pudding Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the layers separate until ready to serve, as the crust may become soggy. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer it warm, but it's equally delicious chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth Ann'S Pudding Dessert contains roughly 2179 calories, with 25g protein, 184g carbohydrates, and 154g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (81% of the Daily Value), protein (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1135mg per serving (49% 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
Can I use a different flavor of pudding?
Yes, you can easily substitute the chocolate or lemon pudding with other flavors like vanilla or butterscotch. Each flavor will bring its unique twist to the dessert, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.
How can I make this dessert ahead of time?
This pudding dessert is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the crust and layer the cream cheese mixture and pudding on top, then refrigerate for a few hours or overnight before serving. Just add the Cool Whip layer right before serving for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based margarine. You can also opt for dairy-free Cool Whip or homemade whipped coconut cream to keep the dessert dairy-free.
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).