Quick No-Bake Chocolate Pie (Jell-O Instant Pudding and Cool Whip)

This no-bake chocolate pie with instant jell-o and cool whip is a quick and easy dessert that's perfect for those times when you need something sweet but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.​

Who can resist a no-bake pie? With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a this no bake chocolate pie for a delicious dessert in mere minutes! 

​This pie is made with Jell-O pudding mix so it whips up fast for those times when you need something quick.

Using Cool Whip (or another whipped topping) makes this recipe even simpler. It's a great one to make if you're a beginner or want something to try with the kids. 

Don't let the simplicity fool you, though. This no-bake chocolate pie is a family favorite. It is requested often and I end up making it at least once a month.

Check out my other quick and easy dessert recipes including no-bake lemon pie, no bake pineapple pie, and my Viral TikTok Booty Dip!

Why this recipe works

• ​No baking means not heating up the kitchen.
• Kid and family friendly thanks to simple, available ingredients.
• Just 4 ingredients!
• Easy to make ahead for parties, potlucks, tailgates, and holidays.

Ingredients

Scroll to the bottom of the post for precise amounts and printable recipe card.

• Ready-made crust - chocolate flavor such as Oreo. Or use a homemade crust.
• Instant pudding mix - chocolate flavor.
• Milk - whole milk or 2% works best.
• Cool whip whipped topping - or homemade.

Step by Step Instructions

STEP ONE: Combine both packages of pudding with cold milk in a large bowl. Stir with a whisk until thickened and well combined-about one minute. The mixture will be very thick. Add a splash or two of milk if needed to combine well. Spoon half the chocolate filling mixture into pie shell.

STEP TWO: To remaining pudding, add half the whipped topping. Stir until well combined. Mixture will be much easier to work with. Spoon this mixture into the pie shell over the first pudding layer.

STEP THREE: Layer the rest of the whipped topping on top of the pudding. Top with mini chips, if desired.

Can be served immediately, or refrigerate to serve later.

Tips for making the best chocolate pie

• The best way to serve this no-bake chocolate pie is chilled, so make sure to let it set in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
• If using a pre-made crust, be sure to keep the plastic packaging. It can be inverted and used to cover the pie for refrigerating or transporting.
• Use a large mixing bowl to mix the filling so it has plenty of space to combine well.

Making your own pie crust

This no-bake chocolate pudding pie recipe calls for a store bought Oreo pie crust. But you can make your own cookie pie crust if you have more time.

​To make a cookie crust you'll need:

• 1 ⅔ cup finely ground cookie crumbs - use a food processor or pound them in a zip top bag with a rolling pin.
• ​½ cup (one stick) melted butter
• 2 tablespoon granulated sugar or brown sugar (optional)
• Pinch salt (optional)

Oreo Pie Crust

An Oreo cookie crust is a delicious option for any chocolate pie. Mix the Oreo crumbs with the melted butter until well blended. Press the mixture into a pie dish and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling.

Graham Cracker Pie Crust

A graham cracker crust is another classic choice for a no-bake pie. You can use the classic flavor, cinnamon, or chocolate. Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter then press it into a pie pan. Chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before filling it.

Cookie Pie Crust

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try using a cookie crust for your no-bake chocolate pie. Biscoff, shortbread, sugar cookies, and peanut butter cookies are all great choices. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press into your pie pan and chill for 30 minutes before adding the filling.

Finishing Touches

Now that your no-bake chocolate pie is complete, it's time to add the finishing touches to make it look as good as it tastes. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautiful and delicious dessert:

Topping

This recipe calls for Cool Whip whipped topping. It's delicious, reliable, and holds up well if you need to make this pie ahead of time. If you want to make your own topping, try making my homemade Caramel whipped cream for a delicious alternative. It's made with heavy whipping cream and homemade caramel sauce!

Chocolate Shavings

To add a touch of elegance to your no-bake chocolate pie, top it with chocolate shavings or chocolate curls. Use a potato peeler to shave thin curls off a Hershey's chocolate bar or a block of chocolate. You can also use a grater or a sharp knife to create different shapes and textures. Sprinkle the shavings over the whipped topping or use them to decorate the edges of the pie.

Chocolate chips

This is my favorite way to decorate the pie because it's quick and easy. We like to use mini chocolate chips to the top of the pie, but you can use regular sized ones. You can try white chocolate chips, or even a combination. 

Cookie crumbs

Another idea for topping your pie is to use some crushed cookie "dust". You can also sprinkle some a crushed candy made from a toffee bar like a Heath or Skor. Or use a strainer to dust the pie with cocoa powder for a simple decoration.

How to store leftovers

No-bake chocolate pie should be store covered in the refrigerator. You can place toothpicks in the whipped topping to hold up plastic wrap or foil.

Pie will keep well for a couple days. After that it may start to separate and the crust will turn soggy.

Variations to try

There are several ways to modify this no bake chocolate pie recipe to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Pies: If you can't decide between chocolate and peanut butter, why not have both? Make the chocolate pie as directed, but add a layer of peanut butter mixture on top before adding the whipped cream. You could also try swirling the peanut butter mixture into the chocolate pudding for a marbled effect.
• Pumpkin Pie: For a seasonal twist, try swapping out the chocolate pudding mix for pumpkin spice pudding mix. Add a layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a delicious fall dessert.
• Different Crusts: While the recipe calls for an Oreo crust, you can use any type of cookie or cracker you like. 

Other easy desserts you'll love

• Apple Dump Cake
• Guinness Beer Chocolate Cake
• Sunbutter Cups (Peanut Free)
• Graham Cracker Pralines