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Home ≫ Desserts

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

By Nikole Berg Oct 17, 2023

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2 photo collage-a slice of pie and the whole pie with a slice taken out

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.​

a chocolate pie topped with whipped cream with a slice taken out and set in background

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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.
overhead view of recipe ingredients-whipped topping, pudding mix, milk, crust

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.

2 photo collage adding milk to dry pudding; pudding spread in crust.
2 photo collage-pudding in a bowl with a whisk and being spread in crust.
overhead view of adding chocolate chips to finished pie
a chocolate pie topped with whipped cream with a slice taken out and set in background

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.

Can you make this pie ahead?

Yes! You add the pudding mixtures to the crust and top with whipped topping right before serving.

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
close up view of chocolate pie on a plate with a bite on a fork

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close up view of pie on a white plate with a fork

No Bake Chocolate Pie

Recipe by Nikole Berg
This No Bake Chocolate Pie is quick, easy, and loved by chocolate lovers young and old. Perfect as a make ahead dessert during the hectic holiday season, or whenever you’re craving a cool, creamy chocolate dessert.
4.68 from 34 votes
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Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 Slices
Calories 232 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 pre-made chocolate crumb crust such as Oreo brand
  • 2 - 3.9 ounce instant chocolate flavor pudding boxes such as Jell-O Brand
  • 1 ¾ cup milk whole or 2%; cold; add more if needed to make spreadable
  • 8 ounce whipped topping thawed
  • ½   cup mini chocolate chips or other garnish; optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions
 

  • Combine both packages of pudding with the cold milk. Stir with a whisk until thickened-about one minute.
  • Spoon half the chocolate pudding into the pie shell and smooth the top.
  • Add half the whipped topping to the remaining chocolate pudding. Stir until well combined.
  • Spoon the pudding-whipped topping mixture over the first pudding layer in the pie shell.
  • Spread remaining whipped topping over the pudding layers.
  • Top with chocolate chips.
  • Refrigerate until completely set-about 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 232kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 148mgFiber: 1gSugar: 31gVitamin A: 133IUCalcium: 96mgIron: 1mg
Keyword chocolate desserts, chocolate pudding pie, no bake chocolate pie
Tried this recipe?Click here to leave a helpful tip!

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About Nikole Berg

Nikole is the creator and photographer behind The Travel Palate, a food and travel blog featuring quick and flavorful recipes and getaway guides. Nikole hopes to inspire your inner foodie whether you're in the kitchen or traveling on your next adventure.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Laura

    May 16, 2025 at 5:23 pm

    Hello I plan to make this pie on Sunday. Out of curiosity does it have a grainy texture at all?

    Reply
    • Nikole Berg

      May 16, 2025 at 5:36 pm

      Hi Laura, the bottom chocolate layer can get a little grainy if not mixed well because it is quite thick. If you think it might get grainy, add about 1/4 cup of milk (so 2 cups) so it's easier to mix. With all that being said, the finished pie has never had a detectable grainy texture. I would also sweep out any cookie crumbs from the pie shell so it doesn't mix into the pudding if that is undesirable. Hope that helps, thank you for the question!

      Reply
  2. Mike

    November 27, 2024 at 8:44 am

    Can you par-bake the crust before adding mixture, so that the crust will stay firm?

    Reply
    • Nikole Berg

      November 27, 2024 at 10:29 am

      Hey Mike, I have never pre-baked the Oreo crust as I think it is already pre-baked (this recipe uses a ready crust). I've never had mine get soggy right away, maybe a little after a couple days in the fridge. If you are making a homemade cookie crust, then yes you should par bake. The same for a flour based crust. Hope that helps!

      Reply
      • Mike

        November 28, 2024 at 7:13 am

        Yes and thank you; HAPPY TURKEY DAY!

        Reply
  3. Jess

    November 22, 2023 at 8:00 pm

    5 stars
    Delicious. We needed more milk than the recipe called for bc it was sooo thick and gelatinous (not sure how much we ultimately used bc we just kept pouring in as needed but I estimate 2.5 cups).

    Reply
  4. Lisa Hake

    November 22, 2023 at 10:07 am

    Can you tell me how to make a peanut butter mix to add in? That sounds amazing! Just melted peanut butter?

    Reply
    • Nikole Berg

      December 29, 2023 at 10:38 pm

      Adding peanut butter sounds like a great idea. I have never tried it, and now I need to test it out. Did you come up with a way?

      Reply
  5. Beth T.

    July 08, 2023 at 10:53 pm

    So easy and yummy! I did one box (3.9oz) vanilla with 7oz milk. Mixed it up then add a scoop of creamy Peanutbutter then put that in pie shell. Then I did a box of (3.9oz) chocolate pudding with 7 oz milk then fold in the whipped cream. Just topped with whipped cream. So delicious. Thanks for a simple delicious pie! Yum!

    Reply
    • Nikole

      July 09, 2023 at 6:06 pm

      Sounds delish! I'll try your version next time!

      Reply
  6. Christine

    June 14, 2022 at 5:26 pm

    5 stars
    I used 2 Hershey White Chocolate pudding 3.9oz boxes. I crushed up 1 cup Oreo Double Stuff cookies(about 10-12), and added to the pudding before dividing it up. Then followed the recipe and it turned out great. Topped with milk chocolate chips.

    Reply
    • Nikole

      June 15, 2022 at 8:27 am

      Thank you for sharing this variation, Christine! Sounds delicious- just like cookies and cream! Have a great day!

      Reply
  7. Dana

    February 13, 2021 at 10:00 pm

    5 stars
    In the refrigerator now! Can’t wait! I did make with a pecan crust and eager to see how it tastes. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Nikole

      February 17, 2021 at 9:39 am

      Thank you Dana! The pecan crust sounds amazing! I hope you enjoy it!

      Reply
  8. Jacqueline Debono

    January 06, 2019 at 11:16 am

    This dessert looks yummilicious. I love that it's so quick and easy to make. As you said, perfect in summer when you don't want to be baking!

    Reply
  9. Amanda Wren-Grimwood

    January 06, 2019 at 10:04 am

    I love no bake desserts, especially if you have other courses to cook. This looks yummy!

    Reply
  10. Caroline

    January 05, 2019 at 8:55 pm

    I agree, there are definitely times when you would like to make dessert but don't have much time so something quick is just the thing. This comes together so easily and looks great!

    Reply
  11. Jagruti Dhanecha

    January 04, 2019 at 9:39 am

    Drooling over this no-bake chocolate pie pics! Your recipe is so creative and delectable, perfect for any happy occasion.

    Reply
    • Nikole

      January 04, 2019 at 2:02 pm

      Thanks Jagruti! The faster I can get dessert in my tummy the better!

      Reply
  12. Beth

    January 04, 2019 at 9:32 am

    Wow! That looks like some chocolatey goodness! I could use a piece right now! I love how easy it is too! This would be great any time of the year!

    Reply
    • Nikole

      January 04, 2019 at 2:01 pm

      Thank you Beth! Can't live without a little chocolate, right?

      Reply
4.68 from 34 votes (31 ratings without comment)

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