Butterscotch Pecan Dessert: A Creamy, Crunchy Classic You’ll Love Year-Round

When comfort meets decadence, it tastes a lot like this Butterscotch Pecan Dessert. This layered no-fuss delight brings together a buttery pecan crust, a rich and creamy cream cheese layer, and a luscious butterscotch pudding filling — all topped with fluffy whipped topping and crunchy pecans. It’s the kind of recipe that makes repeat appearances at family gatherings, potlucks, and holidays for a reason.

Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead dessert, an easy option for entertaining, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy with a hot cup of coffee, this dessert is it. With minimal prep and no special equipment required, it’s perfect for busy bakers and seasoned hosts alike.

Who This Recipe Is For

The Butterscotch Pecan Dessert is ideal for:

• Busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

• Sweet tooths who enjoy creamy, nutty, and nostalgic flavors.

• Beginner bakers looking for an easy, foolproof dessert that impresses.

• Holiday hosts who need a make-ahead dessert that’s guaranteed to wow.

It’s great for all seasons but shines especially during fall and winter gatherings when warm, toasty flavors are in high demand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing dessert:

• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup chopped pecans, divided

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

• 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided

• 3-1/2 cups cold 2% milk

• 2 packages (3.4 or 3.5 ounces each) instant butterscotch or vanilla pudding mix

You can choose between butterscotch or vanilla pudding depending on your preference — butterscotch adds that deep caramel richness, while vanilla keeps things lighter and more mellow.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a small mixing bowl, use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the cold butter into the flour until the mixture is crumbly, resembling coarse sand. Stir in 1/2 cup of the chopped pecans.

Press the mixture evenly into an ungreased 13×9-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until lightly browned and set. Let it cool completely before adding the next layer.

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Gently fold in 1 cup of the thawed whipped topping.

Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust using a spatula. Be careful not to break the crust underneath.

3. Mix the Pudding

In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and pudding mix for about 2 minutes, or until thickened. Let it stand for another 2 minutes to finish setting. Then pour it evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes or until the pudding layer is fully set.

4. Add Final Toppings

Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer, then sprinkle the dessert with the remaining chopped pecans.

Refrigerate the finished dessert for 1–2 hours to allow all layers to firm up and flavors to meld beautifully.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following:

• Mixing bowls (at least 3 sizes)

• Pastry cutter or fork (for cutting in butter)

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer

• Whisk

• 13×9-inch baking dish

• Rubber spatula or offset spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

Optional:

• Food processor (for a finer crust texture)

• Piping bag (for decorative whipped topping)

Tips, Shortcuts & Variations

Tips:

• Use cold butter for the crust to ensure a flaky, shortbread-like base.

• Chill each layer fully before adding the next for clean, defined layers.

• Soften cream cheese properly at room temp for a smooth filling.

Shortcuts:

• Use a store-bought graham cracker crust if you’re short on time.

• Substitute ready-made whipped topping with stabilized homemade whipped cream if desired.

Variations:

• Chocolate lovers? Use chocolate pudding instead of butterscotch.

• Nut allergy? Swap pecans for toasted coconut or omit entirely.

• Pumpkin twist? Add 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the cream cheese layer for a fall vibe.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The layers hold up well, and the flavor actually deepens as it sits!

Do not freeze this dessert — the texture of the whipped topping and pudding will not survive the thawing process.

Food and Drink Pairings

This rich dessert pairs beautifully with:

• Hot beverages: Try coffee with a dash of cinnamon, spiced chai tea, or a creamy latte.

• After-dinner drinks: Serve with a glass of tawny port, amaretto, or butterscotch schnapps for a cozy pairing.

• Light meals: Great after soups, salads, or grilled chicken dishes to provide a sweet, satisfying finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Yes! In fact, making it the day before helps the layers firm up and the flavors meld. Just keep it covered in the fridge.

What can I use instead of butterscotch pudding?

Vanilla, chocolate, or caramel pudding are excellent substitutes. You can even mix one butterscotch and one vanilla for a balanced flavor.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?

Absolutely. Just stabilize it with a little powdered sugar or unflavored gelatin so it holds its shape and texture over time.

Is this dessert freezer-friendly?

Unfortunately, no. Freezing will ruin the texture of both the whipped topping and pudding layers.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and ensure all other ingredients (like pudding mix) are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Butterscotch Pecan Dessert is everything a great dessert should be — creamy, crunchy, sweet, and incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s your first time making a layered dessert or you’re looking to bring a nostalgic dish to your next gathering, this one delivers every time.

It’s simple enough for weeknights and special enough for holidays. With its harmonious layers of texture and flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

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