This Magic Pudding Dessert is the easiest no-bake treat made with just four simple ingredients. Layers of saltine crackers soften under creamy chocolate pudding and whipped topping, creating a dessert that tastes just like it was made with pie crust.
This recipe brings back memories of quick desserts I used to whip up when time was tight but dessert was still a must. It’s just as fun and simple as my Strawberry Shortcake Dessert Shooters—both come together with minimal effort but always feel special when served.
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Why You’ll Love Magic Pudding Dessert
Simple ingredients: Just four pantry staples and you’re ready to go.
No bake: A great summer dessert that keeps the oven off.
Make-ahead: Best when chilled overnight—perfect for planning ahead.
Lightened-up: Uses sugar-free pudding, fat-free milk, and non-fat Cool Whip.
Magic texture: The crackers soften and become almost pastry-like by the next day.
Magic Pudding Dessert Ingredients
- Saltine crackers: the base layer that softens into a crust-like texture after chilling.
- Sugar-free instant chocolate pudding: gives a rich chocolate flavor without extra sugar.
- Fat-free milk: keeps the pudding light and creamy.
- Non-fat Cool Whip: the finishing touch that adds fluffy sweetness to every bite.
Substitution Ideas
- Use graham crackers instead of saltines for a sweeter base.
- Try vanilla or butterscotch sugar-free pudding instead of chocolate.
Variations
- Add a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries between the pudding and crackers.
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder on top of the whipped topping.
- Add a swirl of peanut butter into the pudding mixture before layering.
- Make individual portions in jars or dessert cups for a fun presentation.
Top Tips for Preparing This Dessert
- Make sure the crackers are fully covered by pudding so they soften properly.
- Let it chill for the full 24 hours—this gives it the signature “magic” crust effect.
- Use a rubber spatula to spread layers evenly and gently.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top. This dessert pairs well with light meals like my Cucumber Tea Sandwiches or Avocado Sprouts Sandwich, and would be a sweet ending to a lunch or potluck table.
It's especially refreshing after summer dinners like my Shrimp Caesar Salad or Red White and Blue Potato Salad.
How to Store
Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert does not freeze well due to the whipped topping and pudding texture.
When you make this Magic Pudding Dessert recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Magic Pudding Dessert
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
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Ingredients
- 1 box instant sugar-free chocolate pudding
- 2 cups fat-free milk
- 8 ounces non-fat cool whip
- 36 saltine crackers
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk instant pudding and milk together.
- Place 16 crackers in bottom of 8×8 pan.
- Pour half the pudding mixture on top of crackers, spreading evenly.
- Place the other 16 crackers on top of pudding, and then pour the other half of the pudding mixture on top of the last set of crackers.
- Top with the whole container of cool whip.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. The “magic” part – after the dessert sits long enough, the crackers taste exactly like a thin layer of either phyllo or pie crust! Serves 6.
Sarah Reid says
Magic is right! Yummy!
Cindy Kerschner says
Very different, Shelby! Saltines and chocolate pudding wow!
Lauren Everson says
That looks lusciously addicting, I'm sure no one misses the sugar.
Tara Noland says
I have been loving this everywhere I have seen it, great recipe!!
Wendy Klik says
I had forgotten all about this dessert. My Mom made it when I was a kid. Thanks for the fond memory.
Hezzi-D says
I would never think to add crackers to this dish but it sounds like the perfect salty/sweet combo!
Liz Berg says
Ooooh, I love the secret ingredient in this recipe!!! Your dessert looks SO decadent and delicious!!!
Debbie says
There is something so good about sweet with salty. And puddingy! Looks great.
Renee Dobbs says
What a way to add a little salty aspect to a sweet dessert. Yum!