This Sugar-Free 3-Layer Chocolate Dessert is a rich and decadent treat with a chocolate almond flour crust, a creamy vanilla-infused cream cheese layer, and a smooth, chocolatey pudding topping. Finished with a fluffy whipped cream layer, this dessert is low in carbs and completely free of refined sugar—perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Completely sugar-free – Uses keto-friendly sweeteners for a low-carb treat.
- Three layers of indulgence – A perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Easy to make – Simple steps and no complicated techniques.
- Rich and creamy – A satisfying chocolate dessert without the sugar spike.
- Perfect for any occasion – Great for gatherings, holidays, or a personal indulgence.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp powdered erythritol (or preferred sugar-free sweetener)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered erythritol
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk)
- ½ cup sugar-free chocolate pudding mix (or homemade)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp powdered erythritol
For the Whipped Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered erythritol
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Sugar-free chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, cocoa powder, melted butter, sweetener, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan.
- Refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm up.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened almond milk, sugar-free chocolate pudding mix, cocoa powder, and sweetener until thickened.
- Let the pudding mixture sit for 5 minutes to fully set.
- Gently spread it over the cream cheese layer.
4. Whip the Topping
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered erythritol, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chocolate pudding layer.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.
- Garnish with sugar-free chocolate shavings before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option – Use coconut flour instead of almond flour (adjust quantity as needed).
- Extra Chocolatey – Add sugar-free chocolate chips between the layers.
- Mocha Twist – Mix a teaspoon of instant coffee into the pudding layer for a coffee-flavored dessert.
- Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate – Swirl some sugar-free peanut butter into the cream cheese layer for a Reese’s-inspired version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Not required—this dessert is best served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use regular pudding mix instead of sugar-free?
Yes, but it will increase the sugar and carb content of the dessert.
How do I make homemade sugar-free pudding?
Whisk together unsweetened cocoa, sweetener, cornstarch (or xanthan gum), and almond milk, then heat until thickened.
What can I use instead of almond flour for the crust?
You can use coconut flour, though you may need less since it absorbs more moisture.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best made a day in advance so the layers fully set.
What’s the best way to slice this dessert?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices for neat layers.
How can I make the whipped topping more stable?
Add ¼ tsp xanthan gum while whipping to help it hold its shape longer.
Is this dessert keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and made with keto-approved sweeteners.
Can I use coconut sugar instead of erythritol?
Yes, but it will add more carbs, making it less keto-friendly.
How do I prevent the pudding layer from being too runny?
Ensure the pudding mix fully sets before spreading it over the cream cheese layer.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply use a 9×13-inch pan and double the ingredients.
Conclusion
This Sugar-Free 3-Layer Chocolate Dessert is a rich, indulgent treat without the guilt. With its decadent chocolate flavors, creamy layers, and sugar-free sweetness, it’s the perfect dessert for special occasions or everyday enjoyment. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a healthier chocolate fix, this dessert is sure to satisfy your cravings!