Imagine the creamy richness of cheesecake, the deep comfort of chocolate pudding, and the light sweetness of whipped topping — all layered on a buttery graham cracker crust. These Cheesecake-Chocolate Pudding Bars are that dreamy combination come to life. Cool, creamy, and indulgently satisfying, they’re perfect for making ahead and slicing into neat, irresistible bars. If you’re a fan of creamy layered desserts, trust me, this one will be your new go-to.

Behind the Recipe

This dessert was born out of a craving for both cheesecake and chocolate — but without the hassle of baking an entire cheesecake. One night, I layered softened cream cheese with pudding and whipped topping over a graham crust just to see what would happen. The result was even better than expected: a no-fuss, no-bake treat with all the flavors I love in a cool, creamy format. It was a hit on the first try, and it hasn’t left my rotation since.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Layered desserts like this gained popularity in American kitchens in the late 20th century, especially for their no-bake ease and crowd-pleasing simplicity. Often seen at potlucks and holidays, they combined pantry ingredients with chilled layers to create something both impressive and easy. This version marries two favorites — cheesecake and chocolate pudding — in a way that’s visually striking and endlessly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love Cheesecake-Chocolate Pudding Bars

These bars are everything you need when you’re craving something cool, creamy, and chocolatey.

Versatile: Serve them for parties, picnics, or as a chilled weeknight dessert.

Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, common ingredients.

Quick and Easy: No oven required, just a little mixing and chilling.

Customizable: Swap crusts, change the pudding flavor, or layer in extras.

Crowd-Pleasing: Smooth, sweet, and totally irresistible.

Make-Ahead Friendly: They get better as they chill.

Great for Leftovers: Store beautifully and taste even better the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A little extra care makes this dessert flawless.

Soften cream cheese fully: This helps it blend smoothly and avoid lumps.
Chill between layers: It helps each one set nicely without mixing.
Use cold milk for pudding: This ensures it thickens correctly and fast.
Layer gently: Use a spatula to avoid breaking the lower layers.
Use a sharp knife for slicing: Wipe clean between cuts for picture-perfect bars.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Simple tools, big results.

9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ideal for clean slices and even layering.

Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two for the layers.

Electric Mixer: Makes quick work of the cream cheese mixture.

Spatula: Essential for spreading each layer evenly.

Measuring Cups & Spoons: For consistent results.

Plastic Wrap: Keeps the dessert fresh while chilling.

Ingredients in Cheesecake-Chocolate Pudding Bars

Each layer plays a role in this rich, chilled dessert.

Graham Cracker Crumbs: 2 cups – Forms a sweet and crunchy base.
Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, melted – Binds the crust and adds richness.
Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened – Tangy and creamy base for the cheesecake layer.
Powdered Sugar: 3/4 cup – Sweetens the cream cheese gently.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor.
Whipped Topping (like Cool Whip): 16 ounces – Used in both the cheesecake and top layer.
Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix: 2 (3.9 oz) boxes – Rich and creamy chocolate layer.
Cold Milk: 3 cups – Activates the pudding and keeps it thick and silky.
Chocolate Curls or Shavings: 2 tablespoons – Optional garnish for flair and extra chocolate punch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Flex the recipe to suit your pantry or preferences.

Graham Crackers: Use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.

Butter: Swap with coconut oil for a hint of flavor and dairy-free option.

Cream Cheese: Try mascarpone or a dairy-free alternative.

Whipped Topping: Use homemade whipped cream, stabilized with sugar.

Chocolate Pudding: Vanilla or butterscotch pudding are fun twists.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cream Cheese: Gives structure and richness to the cheesecake layer. Make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps.

Chocolate Pudding Mix: A pantry staple that thickens fast, creating a rich and silky layer without cooking.

Instructions for Making Cheesecake-Chocolate Pudding Bars

Let’s layer up a dessert that’s cool, creamy, and totally unforgettable.

Preheat Your Equipment:
No need to preheat an oven — this is a no-bake dessert!
Combine Ingredients:
Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Chill in the fridge while prepping the next layer.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Ensure the crust is evenly pressed and firm. You can chill it for 10–15 minutes to set.
Assemble the Dish:
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread this mixture over the chilled crust.
Cook to Perfection:
In another bowl, whisk pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Spread over the cheesecake layer.
Finishing Touches:
Top with remaining whipped topping. Garnish with chocolate curls or shavings if desired.
Serve and Enjoy:
Chill the entire dessert for at least 3 hours or overnight. Slice into bars with a sharp knife and serve cold.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These bars are all about that soft, creamy bite with a touch of crunch at the bottom. The cheesecake layer is tangy and sweet, the pudding is smooth and rich, and the whipped topping adds airiness. Each layer melts perfectly into the next.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make the most of every bite with these tips.

Freeze the crust briefly if you’re short on time.
Use a piping bag to swirl the top layer for presentation.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast and depth.
Chill overnight for cleanest slices and best flavor.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to get it just right.

Don’t use warm pudding — let it thicken first.
Don’t skip chilling the crust — it helps everything set.
Don’t overmix cream cheese — go for smooth, not airy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 340

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These bars are at their best when made ahead. Chill for at least 3 hours, but overnight is ideal. Cover tightly and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. They hold their shape beautifully and taste even better the next day.

How to Serve Cheesecake-Chocolate Pudding Bars

Serve cold with a clean, sharp knife. Wipe the blade between slices for perfect presentation. Add a fresh strawberry or mint sprig for a pop of color.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Make your leftovers feel brand new.

Chop and layer into a parfait with fresh fruit.
Blend into a chocolate cheesecake milkshake.
Freeze and dip slices in melted chocolate for frozen bars.

Additional Tips

Want to take it up a notch?

Mix mini chocolate chips into the pudding for texture.
Add a dash of espresso powder to the pudding mix for mocha flavor.
Use crushed Oreos for a darker, chocolatey crust variation.

Make It a Showstopper

Create clean, defined layers by using a glass dish for a dramatic reveal. Pipe the whipped topping in swirls and sprinkle with shaved chocolate or edible glitter to impress your guests.

Variations to Try

Peanut Butter Dream: Use peanut butter pudding and top with crushed peanuts.
Mint Chocolate: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the cheesecake layer.
Oreo Crust: Swap graham crackers for crushed chocolate cookies.
Strawberry Cheesecake Bars: Use strawberry pudding and fresh berries.
S’mores Version: Add a toasted marshmallow topping and chocolate drizzle.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, just stabilize it with powdered sugar so it holds.

Q2: Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, freeze slices and thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q3: Can I use full-fat cream cheese?

Absolutely — it gives the richest flavor and best texture.

Q4: How long do they last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days when stored tightly covered.

Q5: Can I make this dairy-free?

Try dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and pudding.

Q6: What if I don’t have graham crackers?

Use vanilla wafers, crushed cookies, or digestive biscuits.

Q7: Do I need to cook the pudding?

Nope — use instant pudding mix with cold milk.

Q8: How do I get clean layers?

Chill each layer slightly before adding the next and use a spatula.

Q9: Can I add fruit?

Yes, strawberries or raspberries layer beautifully with the cheesecake.

Q10: What if I don’t like chocolate pudding?

Try butterscotch, vanilla, or banana pudding instead.

Conclusion

These Cheesecake-Chocolate Pudding Bars combine all the best parts of classic layered desserts into one dreamy bite. Easy to make, even easier to love, they’ll quickly become a staple for any occasion. Make them once, and you’ll be hooked.