Name: No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Graham Cracker Crust: 1 pre-made 9-inch graham cracker crust Chocolate Pudding Layer: 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix, 1 ¾ cups cold whole milk Whipped Cream Topping: 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, chocolate shavings or curls (for topping, optional)

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If there’s one dessert every chocolate lover should have in their back pocket, it’s the No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie. Creamy chocolate filling, a fluffy cloud of real whipped cream, and a crisp graham cracker crust come together without ever needing to turn on the oven—just a few simple ingredients and a little chill time, and you’ve got a dessert that’s as effortless as it is crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead treat for summer gatherings or a last-minute weeknight indulgence, this pie delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this pie shine is how just a handful of pantry staples work magic together. Each element is simple, but together they create an irresistible harmony of textures and flavors.

Graham cracker crust: The crunchy crust offers a perfect sweet, buttery foundation and saves time since it’s ready-made—feel free to swap for Oreo if you’re feeling extra chocolatey!
Instant chocolate pudding mix: Choose a quality chocolate pudding for the best flavor—a chocolate fudge variety makes it even richer.
Cold whole milk: Using whole milk ensures your pudding layer is luxuriously thick and creamy.
Heavy whipping cream: Whip it fresh for a topping that’s extra fluffy and light—worlds better than canned versions.
Powdered sugar: A touch of sweetness to elevate the whipped cream without overpowering.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash warms up the flavors and adds a hint of homemade magic.
Chocolate shavings/curls (optional): These turn your pie into a showstopper with minimal extra effort—simply use a veggie peeler on a chocolate bar.

How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie

Step 1: Whip Up the Chocolate Layer

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Pour in your instant chocolate pudding mix and the cold whole milk. Whisk them together for about 2 minutes; you’ll notice the pudding thickening up quickly! This step is where your pie gets its signature creamy texture. Once the pudding is smooth and luscious, pour it into your pre-made graham cracker crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. Set the pie aside while you whip together the next dreamy layer.

Step 2: Make the Fresh Whipped Cream

In a separate bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer (or stand mixer) on medium-high speed to beat the mixture until stiff peaks form—this means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape. Taste a little! It should be lightly sweet with a rich vanilla aroma. This step only takes a few minutes but it transforms the pie from good to extraordinary.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Gently spoon or pipe the fresh whipped cream over the chocolate pudding layer in the pie. You can go rustic with casual swirls or use a piping bag for a fancier look—it’s up to you! The clouds of whipped cream not only look beautiful but make every bite light and airy.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and pop it into the refrigerator. For best results, let it chill for at least 4 hours; overnight is even better if you have time. This rest period allows the layers to firm up, so you get perfect, clean slices when it’s time to serve.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Right before serving, sprinkle the top with chocolate shavings or curls if you like. This little garnish makes your No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie look bakery-worthy without any fuss. Then, slice and share—you’re about to taste dessert perfection!

How to Serve No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie

Garnishes

For that finishing flourish, top your No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie with chocolate curls, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even crushed chocolate cookies. A few fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries also make a colorful, tangy contrast to all the rich chocolate. Don’t be afraid to get creative—a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel is never a bad idea!

Side Dishes

This pie is decadent on its own, but if you want to round out a dessert table, pair it with a simple fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For coffee lovers, a chilled espresso or a cup of robust coffee is the ideal companion to complement those chocolaty notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, try serving mini No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pies in individual jars or cupcake liners—it’s fun, portable, and totally mess-free. Alternatively, slice the pie into petite squares for a dessert platter, or layer pieces into parfait glasses with extra whipped cream for a deconstructed twist that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie covered in the fridge—either in its original pie plate with plastic wrap or in airtight containers. The pie holds up beautifully for up to three days, staying creamy and delicious without losing its signature texture.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual slices of the pie for longer storage. Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying; note that the whipped cream may be softer after thawing, but the pie will still taste heavenly.

Reheating

No reheating necessary for this no-bake masterpiece! Simply allow the pie to chill thoroughly before serving, and if you’ve frozen slices, let them thaw completely in the fridge to return to that irresistible creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade crust for this pie?

Absolutely! A homemade graham cracker or Oreo crust adds a personal touch to your No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie. Just be sure it’s fully cooled and set before adding the pudding layer.

Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk for the pudding (make sure your pudding mix is compatible) and use a whipped coconut cream topping. The texture and flavor will still be wonderful!

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

To keep your graham crust crisp, assemble the pie just before the chilling step and avoid letting it sit out at room temperature for too long. Some like to brush the crust with melted chocolate and chill it before adding filling—an easy bonus layer of flavor and crunch!

Can I use a different flavored pudding?

Definitely! While chocolate is classic, feel free to try butterscotch, vanilla, or even pistachio for a fun spin on the traditional No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie. Switching things up keeps dessert time exciting.

How far in advance can I make this pie?

You can make it up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for parties or holidays. Just keep it refrigerated and add garnishes right before serving for the freshest look and taste.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall for a dessert this easy, beautiful, and downright delicious. If you’re craving something chocolaty that won’t heat up your kitchen, give the No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears and how quickly it comes together. Happy no-baking!

No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chill time)
Yield: 8 slices
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this No-Bake Chocolate Pudding Pie. A simple yet decadent dessert that requires no oven time, perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 pre-made 9-inch graham cracker crust

Chocolate Pudding Layer:

1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix, 1 ¾ cups cold whole milk

Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, chocolate shavings or curls (for topping, optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Chocolate Pudding: Whisk instant pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
Fill the Crust: Pour the pudding into the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
Whip the Cream: Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Top the Pie: Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the pudding layer.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours until set. Garnish with chocolate shavings before serving.