If you’re searching for a dreamy dessert that delivers maximum chocolatey goodness with minimum effort, this easy no bake chocolate pudding pie is going to be your new go-to. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this pie comes together in a snap—no oven required. Creamy, rich, and nestled in a buttery cookie crust, it’s a treat that never fails to draw rave reviews. It’s endlessly customizable, and you’ll love how it feels like a little slice of nostalgia with each bite. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your dessert secret weapon.

easy no bake chocolate pudding pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this pie are delightfully simple, and every single one plays its part in creating that unforgettable flavor and texture. With only a handful of pantry staples, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this showstopper comes together!

Chocolate pudding mix: The heart of the filling—choose instant for the quickest results, and always go for your favorite brand for best flavor.
Cold milk: Blends with the pudding mix to create a luscious, silky filling; whole milk adds extra richness, but any milk works.
Pre-made graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust: The perfect shortcut for a crisp, sweet base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Whipped topping or whipped cream: A fluffy cloud that tops the pie and takes every bite over the top; homemade or store-bought works great.
Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional): For that extra touch of “wow” and a little hint of texture on top.

How to Make easy no bake chocolate pudding pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

If you’re using a store-bought crust, simply unwrap and set it aside—no baking necessary! For extra crunch or a homemade touch, you can make your own by blending cookies or graham crackers with melted butter, then pressing firmly into your pie dish. Chill the crust in the fridge while you make the filling, so it stays crisp.

Step 2: Whip Up the Pudding Filling

Pour your instant chocolate pudding mix into a large bowl and add the cold milk. Whisk vigorously for about two minutes, until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. The magic here is in the chilling—let it sit for an additional minute or two to make sure it’s fully set before moving on. You’ll love how glossy and luscious it gets!

Step 3: Fill the Pie

Once the pudding has set, spread it evenly into your prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Be generous and pile it high—this is what gives the easy no bake chocolate pudding pie its signature, irresistible height and richness. Pop the whole thing in the fridge to chill for at least three hours, or until firm.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream

Right before serving, mound a thick layer of whipped topping or freshly whipped cream over the chilled pie. You can swirl it or use the back of a spoon to make soft peaks. If you want to get fancy, pipe on the whipped cream in decorative dollops.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Finish your easy no bake chocolate pudding pie with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or even a little dusting of cocoa powder. Let your creativity shine—these little touches make the pie feel extra special every single time.

How to Serve easy no bake chocolate pudding pie

Garnishes

Dress up your pie slices by sprinkling on curls of shaved chocolate or a shower of mini chocolate chips right before serving. A few fresh berries or a sprinkle of crushed cookies on top are just as delightful. If you really want the presentation to pop, try a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel syrup around each plate.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat. For a lighter contrast, offer a fresh fruit salad alongside—the juicy fruit balances the richness of the chocolate and keeps everything refreshing. Hot coffee or a tall glass of cold milk also makes an excellent companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try assembling your easy no bake chocolate pudding pie as individual mini pies in glass jars for a playful, portable option. Serving it in parfait glasses or trifle bowls with layers of pudding, cream, and crushed cookies turns it into a stunning layered dessert. For something extra unexpected, use cookie cutters to create fun pie shapes before adding the whipped topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If there’s any pie left (and that’s a big if!), simply cover the pie pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for up to three days, staying creamy and delicious, but it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two for peak texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this easy no bake chocolate pudding pie for longer storage. Wrap individual slices or the whole pie well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving—note that the texture may soften a little, but the flavor will still be dreamy.

Reheating

This pie truly shines served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. If it’s been in the fridge or freezer, let it sit at room temperature for just a few minutes to take the chill off before slicing and serving for the best creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Absolutely! If you love homemade pudding, it will be divine here. Just be sure it’s completely cooled before spreading into the pie crust so it sets up nicely.

What’s the best store-bought crust for this pie?

A classic graham cracker crust is always a winner, but a chocolate wafer crust doubles the chocolatey flavor, making your easy no bake chocolate pudding pie even more irresistible. Choose whichever you love best!

Can I make this pie dairy-free?

Yes—you can swap in non-dairy milk and use a dairy-free instant pudding mix. For the topping, look for coconut whipped cream or another dairy-free alternative.

How far in advance can I make this?

This pie is perfect for making ahead! You can make it the day before your event and let it chill overnight. Just wait to add the whipped topping and garnishes until right before serving for the freshest look.

Why isn’t my pudding setting properly?

Instant pudding needs very cold milk to set up correctly, so make sure your milk is straight from the fridge. Also, be sure to use the right milk-to-pudding ratio listed on your pudding package—too much milk can make it runny.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this easy no bake chocolate pudding pie enough—it’s a true crowd-pleaser that takes your chocolate cravings seriously while keeping things blissfully simple. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing it as I do. Give it a try, and let this pie become a treasured staple in your dessert rotation!

easy no bake chocolate pudding pie Recipe