Description

A rich layered dessert featuring a buttery chocolate cookie crust, homemade salted caramel, creamy chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. This chilled treat is decadent, smooth, and perfect for make-ahead gatherings.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups crushed chocolate graham crackers or Oreo cookies

½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for crust)

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

½ cup unsalted butter (for caramel layer)

½ cup light brown sugar, packed

½ teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 boxes (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix

3 cups cold milk

1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

½ cup mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings

Caramel sauce for garnish (optional)

Extra sea salt flakes for garnish (optional)

Chopped pecans or crushed toffee bits for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed chocolate graham crackers or Oreo cookies with melted butter until evenly coated.
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Stir continuously for 5–7 minutes until thickened and golden.
Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and vanilla extract.
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the cooled crust and refrigerate for about 15 minutes until slightly set.
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thick and creamy.
Spread the chocolate pudding evenly over the caramel layer.
Gently spread the thawed whipped topping over the pudding layer, smoothing evenly.
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings over the top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
Before serving, garnish with caramel drizzle, sea salt flakes, and chopped pecans or toffee bits if desired.

Notes

Crushed Oreos create a richer chocolate crust, while chocolate graham crackers provide a lighter texture.

Add chopped pecans or walnuts between the caramel and pudding layers for extra crunch.

Chocolate shavings or melted chocolate drizzle can enhance the chocolate flavor.

This dessert can be made a day ahead for easier slicing and better flavor development.

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 32 g
Sodium: 260 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg