Prep time: 15 mins | Chill time: 4–6 hours (or overnight) | Servings: 12
Ingredients
- The Layers:
- 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers (honey or chocolate).
- The Creamy Filling:
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix.
- 3 cups cold whole milk.
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed.
- The Chocolate Glaze:
- 1 container (16 oz) chocolate frosting (microwavable) OR
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup heavy cream (for a homemade ganache).
Instructions
- Whisk the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding and cold milk until thickened. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is uniform and airy.
- Base Layer: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer Up: Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers. Top with another layer of graham crackers.
- Final Cream Layer: Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second layer of crackers and top with one final layer of graham crackers.
- The Glaze: If using frosting, remove the lid and microwave for 30 seconds until pourable. If making ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering, pour over chocolate chips, let sit for 5 minutes, and whisk until smooth.
- Coat: Pour the chocolate glaze over the top layer of crackers, spreading it evenly to the edges.
- Set: Refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours. This is crucial, as the graham crackers absorb moisture from the pudding to create a soft, cake-like texture.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled.