Light, creamy, and brimming with tropical flavor, Coconut Cream Delight is the dessert that dreams are made of. Boasting a buttery nut crust, layers of velvety cream cheese and smooth coconut pudding, and topped with fluffy whipped topping and a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, this dessert is a hit for every occasion. Whether it’s a summer potluck, family dinner, or holiday gathering, this layered treat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
This nostalgic dessert lingers in memory—cool, creamy, and always welcome on the dessert table. Additionally, if you love our Banana Pudding Dream Bars or No-Bake Coconut Cheesecake Cups, you’ll fall head over heels for this coconut-packed classic. Ready to dive into the layers of this delightful treat? Let’s begin!
What is Coconut Cream Delight?
Coconut Cream Delight is a layered dessert featuring a buttery nut crust, a smooth cream cheese and powdered sugar layer, rich coconut cream pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. After chilling until set, the dessert is finished with more nuts for added crunch. Consider it the coconut cousin to lemon lush or chocolate delight—light, decadent, and totally irresistible. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dessert might just be the shortcut!
Why You’ll Love This:
There are several reasons why Coconut Cream Delight stands out as your next go-to dessert:
- Cool and creamy: Perfect for summer days or anytime you need a chilled dessert.
- Easy layers: Simple prep and no fancy ingredients needed.
- Crowd-friendly: Great for gatherings and always a favorite at potlucks.
If you’ve loved our Coconut Cream Pie Bars, this no-fuss version delivers the same tropical flavor with a creamier texture. Additionally, this is comfort food with a sweet island twist!
How to Make Coconut Cream Delight
Quick Overview
With just a few simple steps and a bit of chill time, you can easily prepare a layered dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Moreover, the ease of assembly makes it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. In addition, the layers come together seamlessly, with each contributing its own rich, creamy texture.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped and divided
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (12 oz.) container Cool Whip, divided
- 2 cups milk
- 2 (3.5 oz) boxes coconut cream instant pudding mix
Step-by-Step:
Layer 1 – Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix flour, softened butter, and half of the chopped nuts until crumbly.
- Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
Layer 2 – Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of Cool Whip until smooth.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
Layer 3 – Pudding Layer:
- Whisk milk and coconut cream pudding mix in a bowl until smooth and thickened.
- Pour and spread evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Layer 4 – Topping:
- Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the pudding layer.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining chopped nuts.
- Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving.
What to Serve Coconut Cream Delight With:
This dessert pairs perfectly with light, fresh meals like grilled chicken, summer salads, or seafood. Serve it with iced tea, lemonade, or a coconut-flavored cocktail for a tropical-themed treat. It’s a great finish to a BBQ or holiday dinner.
Top Tips for Perfecting Coconut Cream Delight
- Cool each layer: Ensure the crust is fully cooled before adding the next layer.
- Use instant pudding: Only instant works for the no-cook layering method.
- Toast the nuts: Toast pecans or walnuts for extra flavor and crunch.
- Chill long enough: Let it set at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
- Customize it: Add shredded coconut on top or use graham cracker crust for a twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Store the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s best served cold and doesn’t require reheating. Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the creamy texture of the pudding and whipped topping.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! It’s perfect for making a day ahead and storing chilled.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip? Absolutely, just ensure it’s stabilized if making ahead.
Can I use a graham cracker crust? Yes, for a no-bake version with a different texture and flavor.
Can I use coconut milk instead of regular milk? You can, but make sure it’s full-fat and cold to help the pudding set.
Can I add shredded coconut? Definitely! Sprinkle it over the top or mix it into the pudding for more coconut flavor.
Conclusion
Coconut Cream Delight is a luscious, creamy dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With layers of buttery crust, sweet cream cheese, smooth coconut pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a tropical treat perfect for any gathering. Make it once and you’ll be hooked—this is one dessert you’ll want to keep on repeat!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped and divided
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (12 oz.) container Cool Whip, divided
- 2 cups milk
- 2 (3.5 oz) boxes coconut cream instant pudding mix
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix flour, softened butter, and half of the chopped nuts until crumbly. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of Cool Whip until smooth. Spread over cooled crust and refrigerate.
- Whisk milk and coconut cream pudding mix until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread remaining Cool Whip over pudding layer and top with remaining nuts.
- Chill at least 3 hours before serving.
Notes
Add shredded coconut on top for extra flavor. For a no-bake crust version, use a graham cracker crust. Best served cold and made a day ahead.
Coconut Cream Delight
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Pan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Butter, softened
- 1 cup Walnuts or pecans, chopped and divided
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
Cream Cheese Layer Ingredients
- 1 package Cream cheese, softened (8 oz.)
- 1 container Cool Whip, divided (12 oz.)
Pudding Layer Ingredients
- 2 cups Milk
- 2 boxes Coconut cream instant pudding mix (3.5 oz each)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix flour, softened butter, and half of the chopped nuts until crumbly. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of Cool Whip until smooth. Spread over cooled crust and refrigerate.
- Whisk milk and coconut cream pudding mix until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread remaining Cool Whip over pudding layer and top with remaining nuts.
- Chill at least 3 hours before serving.