Robert Redford Chocolate Layers

This Robert Redford Dessert is a luscious layered treat that brings together a buttery nut crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a rich pudding topping crowned with fluffy cool whip and garnished with cherries and nuts. It’s been a weekend favorite in my family for its perfect balance of textures and flavors that never fails to impress guests or satisfy a sweet tooth.

I first made this for a family gathering when I was short on time and it quickly became a requested dessert for every occasion since then

Ingredients

• Pecans: Chopped for the crust to add crunch and a toasted nutty flavor choose fresh and firm nuts for best taste
• All purpose flour: To bind the crust opt for fresh flour with no clumps
• Melted butter: Provides richness and helps hold the crust together use unsalted for better control of salt
• Cream cheese: Soft and at room temperature for smooth mixing adds creamy tang and structure
• Sugar: Fine granulated sugar balances the tang of cream cheese and sweetness of pudding check for freshness
• Cool whip: Divided between layers adds lightness and creamy texture keep chilled until use
• Instant pudding mix: Box options include chocolate lemon or butterscotch paired with vanilla pudding to add depth and variety of flavors select quality instant mixes with good flavor balance
• Whole milk: To prepare the pudding mixes use cold milk directly from the fridge for the best consistency
• Maraschino cherries: Chopped to garnish for both color and a bright pop of sweetness use well drained cherries
• Chopped nuts: Additional for topping add extra crunch and enhance the nutty aroma

Instructions

Soothe into Baking:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the crust bakes evenly

Create the Crust:

In a mixing bowl combine chopped pecans flour and melted butter until the mixture holds together when pressed Spread the crust mixture evenly into a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish Press firmly to create an even base

Bake the Crust:

Bake the crust for 12 minutes or until it is golden and fragrant This step is crucial to develop a toasted nut flavor and to set the base

Cool Completely:

Let the crust cool fully after baking to avoid melting the cream cheese layer which should be cool before spreading

Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:

In a clean bowl combine cream cheese sugar and 8 ounces of cool whip Beat or fold gently until smooth and creamy This mixture creates the luscious first layer that complements the crunch of the crust

Spread Cream Cheese Layer:

Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust using a spatula for a smooth surface

Prepare the Pudding Mix:

In another bowl whisk together the instant chocolate and vanilla pudding boxes with 3 cups of cold milk until it thickens slightly Spread this pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese base This adds a rich and flavorful middle layer

Final Cool Whip Layer:

Spread the remaining 8 ounces of cool whip smoothly over the pudding layer for a light and airy finish

Garnish:

Generously sprinkle maraschino cherries and chopped nuts evenly on top for a festive look and extra texture

Chill Before Serving:

Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least an hour to help all layers set and flavors meld before slicing

This dessert holds a special place because the pecan crust reminds me of cozy fall family weekends while the cool cherry topping always draws smiles at parties

Storage tips

Store covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness Best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days but the crust may soften slightly after the first day You can freeze the whole dessert for up to one month though the texture of the cream cheese layer may change slightly after thawing

Ingredient substitutions

Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred or for a milder nut flavor Use Greek yogurt mixed with a little heavy cream as a lower fat alternative to cream cheese but expect some textural differences Try using pudding made from scratch with gelatin and cocoa or fruit purees if you want to avoid instant mixes

Serving suggestions

Serve chilled on its own or with a drizzle of caramel or berry sauce for extra decadence Pair with fresh seasonal fruit on the side to lighten the richness A cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte complements this dessert perfectly

This luscious layered dessert is easy to assemble and perfect for gatherings. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of nuts are used for the crust?

Chopped pecans are combined with flour and melted butter to create a crunchy crust base.

→ Can the pudding flavors be varied?

Yes, chocolate and vanilla puddings are used, but lemon or butterscotch can be substituted based on preference.

→ How long should the crust be baked?

The crust is baked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 minutes until lightly golden.

→ What is used to garnish the top layer?

Chopped maraschino cherries and nuts add a colorful and crunchy garnish to the whipped topping.

→ Is refrigeration needed after assembly?

Yes, chilling allows the layers to set properly and enhances the flavors and texture before serving.