Sex in a Pan. Also known as Chocolate Dream Dessert, Robert Redford Dessert or even Better Than Anything Dessert. You’ve heard of it, right? It’s basically one of those delicious desserts that makes you moan in delight. Too much? Regardless, it’s delicious, almost impossible to resist and always goes over big. Don’t worry about finding room in the fridge for leftovers, because there won’t be any!
Chocolate lover? Be sure to print off the recipe for our popular Chocolate Lasagna as well!
Why this recipe works
There are a few different ways to make Sex in a Pan, but most recipes out there have very similar ingredients. A tender crust, cream cheese, chocolate pudding, whipped topping. As desserts go, what’s not to love?
If you’re looking for something sweet, and easy, and irresistible… this is it. But if you’re hoping for leftovers for tomorrow, I suggest cutting a piece now and hiding it in the fridge. Because chances are there won’t be any Sex in a Pan left once you put it out!
Ingredients you will need
Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
POWDERED SUGAR – Make sure to sift your powdered sugar! Sifting helps break up any lumps, ensuring a silky-smooth cream cheese layer.
PUDDING – Look for instant pudding for this recipe as it sets up quickly and doesn’t need cooking.
How to Make Sex in a Pan
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Preheat oven to 350 F degrees. Spray a 9×9 baking pan with cooking spray.
- Melt butter in the microwave and allow to cool. Combine the crumbs and butter and toss together until incorporated.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into an 9×9 square pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Place on wire rack to cool.
- Prepare each of the pudding mixes in separate bowls using 1 cup of the milk for each one. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar until creamy. Add one cup of the Cool Whip to the cream cheese mixture and fold in with a rubber spatula to combine well. Set aside until ready to use.
- When crust is cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust evenly.
- Spread the chocolate pudding over cream cheese layer.
- Spread the vanilla pudding over the chocolate pudding layer.
- Spread remaining Cool Whip over the vanilla pudding.
- Chill for at least two hours to set.
- Right before serving, sift cocoa over the top as garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Make sure to allow at least two hours of chilling time so the creamy layers can set up beautifully for clean slices. Cut it into squares and serve on small dessert plates, or just use a fork—we won’t judge!
Whether you’re serving it family-style in a baking dish or dishing it up as part of a dessert spread, this no-bake favorite is sure to be a showstopper.
More Dessert Recipes
- Pineapple Dream Dessert
- Cream Puff Chocolate Eclair Cake
- Traditional English Trifle
- Tiramisu Trifle in Mason Jars
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Sex in a Pan
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It Pin It Rate ItIngredients
Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs or cookie crumbs
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
Layers:
- 3 oz instant french vanilla pudding 4-serving package
- 3 oz instant chocolate pudding 4-serving package
- 2 cups milk divided
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar sifted
- 8 oz Cool Whip divided
- Sifted cocoa powder for garnish
Things You’ll Need
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 F degrees. Spray a 9×9 baking pan with cooking spray.
- Melt butter in the microwave and allow to cool. Combine the crumbs and butter and toss together until incorporated. Press the crumb mixture firmly into an 9×9 square pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Place on wire rack to cool.2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs or cookie crumbs, 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- Prepare each of the pudding mixes in separate bowls using 1 cup of the milk for each one. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to use.3 oz instant french vanilla pudding, 3 oz instant chocolate pudding, 2 cups milk
- Meanwhile, in a large mixer bowl, combine cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar until creamy. Add one cup of Cool Whip to the cream cheese mixture and fold in with a rubber spatula to combine well. Set aside until ready to use.8 oz cream cheese, 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- When crust is cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture over the crust evenly. Spread the chocolate pudding over cream cheese layer. Spread the vanilla pudding over the chocolate pudding layer. Spread remaining Cool Whip over the vanilla pudding. Chill for at least two hours to set.
- Right before serving, sift cocoa over the top as garnish.Sifted cocoa powder for garnish
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post was originally published here on November 21, 2014.
Amanda Davis
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Julie Mcclelland says
I love it!!
There was one time when I wanted to make it I had just about everything needed except for the pie crust So, what I did was put it in bowls and called it sex in a bowl. I still prefer the pie version.
Vegas 2023 says
I made this with chocolate and vanilla mousse instead of pudding…(used half of the milk called for in the mousse recipe to make it firm enough. It was a huge hit at Thanksgiving! I didn’t have any leftovers, so I made a fresh batch and froze individual slices. It tastes just as good frozen as thawed.
This recipe is a keeper!!
Glykeria says
I made the sex on the pan is amazing delicious and very easy
Tanya says
How early can I make this dessert and keep it in the fridge before it is served?
Amanda Formaro says
Up to 3 days
Judy Wilson says
Looks yummy can’t wait to try it!!!
Karin Hack says
We have made this in our family for over 30 years….we call it ‘Cool Whip Pie” what ever you want to call it it’s great. I usually simplify by using remade /store bought crumb crusts, chocolate/Oreo with chocolate pudding, add chocolate curls. sugar cookie with vanilla…and fresh fruit on top., graham cracker with lemon pudding, usually a cherry on top! Love your recipes!
Erin Cammie Spangler says
Sounds great for my mom! Can’t wait!
Jessica says
Absolutely delicious!
Kirsten M Dent says
I don’t have a good processor, can I still make this?
Amanda Formaro says
Yes, you can mix the crust ingredients with a mixer or by hand.
HOSEA CHUMBA says
yummy
Kate Hession says
The French vanilla and chocolate pudding packs are not available in the U.K.. Whate could I use as substitutions because I would love to try this recipe.
Pat L. says
I’ve made this for many years as “Mississippi Mud”! Is nice to see this is for a smaller 9×9 pan, as my “MM” was for a 9×13 pan. For those amused or not liking the name, I was told “sex” was a mis-quote for “Six in a Pan” over the years – for the 6 layers! Whatever you want to call it – it’s the yummiest dessert ever!
Renae says
At the diner I worked at we called it whoopie cake.
Cheryl Smith says
Hi Amanda, I have made this recipe for over 20 yrs, everyone at the family’s yearly picnic requests it, so now I have to triple the recipe and use large jello packages. I just do one thing different, I combine the pudding mixes and milk together and skip the extra steps, just a suggestion. Take care
Kurt Sims says
I might have to try this but I’ll use cooked pudding instead, I really don’t care for the instant. Cool Whip will hold up but I wonder if you could just stabilize some actual whipped cream with cornstarch or arrowroot.
In any case I’m sure it’ll taste good.
Marlene says
Ohhh this looks yummy!!! Too bad about the dairy products, wonder if they could be subsituted?
Amanda Formaro says
If you try it, would love to hear how it turns out for you :)
Mary Jane says
In the “olden” days it was known as “Better than Robert Redford” pie if anyone feels better at an in-law party….either way its scrumptious!
Tipsy says
This would be easier and in my tummy faster if I bought some ready made products, like ready made cookie crust, and Kozy Shack puddings. But the real challenge would be to upgrade the recipe to organic super food ingredients, like a date pecan crust, cashew cream cheese sub, chia seed puddings, raw cacao, coconut cream, etc. Yes… I have put a lot of thought into this recipe, and I WILL be experimenting. Mmm.
Tamara says
Awesome!!
Did you make this the “real food” way?
If so, how did it turn out, and could I get your recipe?
I’m starting a whole foods diet, but I’d love to make this for my husband’s birthday.
I’ll supply you with my contact info once I get your answer.
Thank you in advance!
My mouth is watering already
Rachel says
Did you ever experiment with real food choices? I don’t buy any of that stuff, either and would love a real food alternative to this delicious (I’ve had it before at a potluck) dessert.
Richard Bourgeau says
The pudding packages call for 2 cups of milk. Am I only supposed to use 1 cup of milk to make them thicker? Or follow the pudding package instructions?
Amanda Formaro says
Please follow the directions in our recipe rather than on the box. You want the pudding to be thicker so it holds up as a layer in this dessert.
Kelly says
Stupidest name and description I’ve ever seen, but looks good if you’re interested in a dessert for your family/friends. Thanks.
Squirrel Butler says
Lighten up, honey
Donna Martin says
I think I need some of that sex!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love ya girl!!