Layered Pistachio Dessert

Slice of pistachio dessert with a fork in it.

Gorgeous Layered Pistachio Dessert is the most amazing old-fashioned sweet treat passed down from my grandma! It's easy to make with a nutty cookie crust that’s topped with layers of cheesecake filling, pistachio pudding, and Cool Whip. It's always a hit at potlucks, parties and holiday gatherings!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Diet Vegetarian

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Chill time 3

Total Time 2 35

Servings servings

Calories 446

Author Kim

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup butter melted
1/2 cup pecans finely chopped

For the first layer:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese room temperature for easier mixing
1 cup confectioners' powdered sugar
2 cups Cool Whip or whipped cream

For the second layer:

2 (3.4 oz) packages pistachio instant pudding
3 cups whole milk

For the topping:

remainder of 16 oz Cool Whip container about 2 cups, or whipped cream
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or 1/4 cup shelled pistachios sprinkled over the top

Instructions

Crust layer: Mix flour, butter and pecans and press into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish or pan. Bake at 325°F for 25 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely.
For the cheesecake layer over crust, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar and Cool Whip. This is easiest to mix with an electric mixer. Spread over crust. Chill each layer for about 20 minutes in the freezer before adding the next to give everything a chance to firm up.
For the pudding layer, mix together pudding and milk. Mix according to package directions. Spread over cream cheese layer. You can chill for another 20 minutes in the freezer to make spreading the Cool Whip easier.
Top with remaining Cool Whip and sprinkle with chopped nuts, if desired. Let the dessert chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Notes

Make ahead: You can make this easy pistachio pudding dessert about 24 hours in advance. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and store in the fridge until serving time.

Leftovers: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. We do not recommend freezing the dessert as the taste and texture will not be as pleasant.

Nutrition