This nostalgic Ice Cream Pudding Dessert—also affectionately known in some families as Ice Cream Salad—is a creamy, crunchy, sweet-meets-salty treat made with a buttery Ritz cracker crust and a toasted coconut pudding-ice cream filling. Originating from cherished family traditions, this unique dessert is easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests year-round, especially in summer.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 65 Ritz Crackers

• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 boxes instant coconut pudding

• 1 cup milk

• ½ gallon vanilla ice cream, softened (but not melted)

• ½ cup toasted coconut, divided

Directions

1. Remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it soften slightly. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Crush the Ritz crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor, blender, or plastic bag.

3. In a bowl, mix the cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until combined.

4. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.

5. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.

6. In a large bowl, combine the pudding mix and milk using a hand mixer until smooth.

7. Add the softened ice cream to the pudding mixture and mix until smooth again.

8. Stir in about 2 tablespoons of the toasted coconut.

9. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.

10. Sprinkle the remaining toasted coconut on top.

11. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or until set and ready to serve.

Tip: For a firmer texture, you can freeze the dessert and thaw slightly before serving.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 536 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 62g

• Protein: 7g

• Fat: 29g

• Saturated Fat: 17g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 7g

• Trans Fat: 0.4g

• Cholesterol: 92mg

• Sodium: 325mg

• Potassium: 374mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 50g

• Vitamin A: 932 IU

• Vitamin C: 1mg

• Calcium: 246mg

• Iron: 1mg

Where It All Began: The Origins of a Family Favorite

The roots of Ice Cream Pudding Dessert are deeply embedded in family traditions, particularly in Midwestern American kitchens. It’s the kind of dessert that often doesn’t make it into fancy cookbooks but is passed down through handwritten recipe cards, whispered from grandmother to granddaughter, or shared between neighbors during a summer BBQ. Like many comfort desserts, it likely began as a creative solution using pantry staples—instant pudding, crackers, and butter—turned into something unexpectedly luxurious. Over time, it evolved into a beloved recipe many families treasure and continue to make for holidays, birthdays, and potlucks.

A Symphony of Textures and Flavors

What makes this dessert so irresistible is the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The Ritz cracker crust adds a salty, buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, sweet pudding and soft ice cream filling. The toasted coconut offers a slightly nutty, chewy texture that adds dimension and warmth to each bite. This balance between sweet and salty, crunchy and creamy, makes it more than just a dessert—it’s a sensory experience.

Why It’s a Summer Favorite (But Good All Year Round)

While it shines brightest during the warmer months, thanks to its chilled and refreshing qualities, Ice Cream Pudding Dessert is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. In the summer, it’s a cooling finale to a backyard cookout or a perfect make-ahead treat for family picnics. During colder months, it brings a touch of brightness and nostalgia to the dessert table, reminding everyone of sunny afternoons and carefree moments. Its simplicity and make-ahead nature also make it a go-to option for busy holidays when oven space is limited.

What Sets It Apart From Other Ice Cream Desserts

Unlike typical layered frozen desserts or elaborate ice cream cakes, this recipe relies on humble ingredients and zero fuss. There’s no need for complicated layers or fancy equipment. It’s made in a single 9×13-inch pan, with minimal prep time and no need for churning. The crust is baked just long enough to hold together and offer structure, while the filling sets in the fridge. The result is a dessert that feels homey and indulgent without requiring hours of work or technical skills.

The Secret Ingredient: Ritz Crackers

Ritz crackers might not be a typical dessert ingredient, but they’re the unsung hero of this recipe. Their subtle saltiness enhances the sweetness of the pudding and ice cream, creating a flavor contrast that’s surprisingly addictive. When combined with melted butter and a little sugar, they transform into a golden, buttery base that holds up well under the creamy filling. This twist makes the dessert stand out from others and adds a unique signature touch that leaves people asking for the recipe.

Creamy Coconut Pudding Meets Vanilla Ice Cream

The pairing of coconut pudding with vanilla ice cream is another element that makes this dessert so special. The coconut flavor brings a tropical, summery vibe, while the vanilla ice cream adds richness and smoothness. The pudding provides body and structure, while the softened ice cream creates a luscious texture. Together, they meld into a creamy, dreamy layer that chills beautifully and slices cleanly once set. The added touch of toasted coconut inside and on top enhances the flavor with a gentle crunch and a hint of warmth.

Toasting the Coconut: A Small Step With Big Flavor Payoff

Toasting the coconut before adding it to the dessert may seem like a minor detail, but it makes a big impact. Toasted coconut develops a deeper, nuttier flavor that complements the creaminess of the pudding-ice cream layer. It also adds visual appeal and a touch of elegance to the top of the dessert. Just a quick toast in a dry skillet or oven gives the coconut flakes a golden hue and brings out their natural sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Tips for the Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for this dessert lies in balancing softness with structure. It’s important to let the ice cream soften—not melt—before mixing it into the pudding. This ensures a smooth, even consistency that will set properly in the fridge. If you’re serving this in a warmer environment, placing the finished dessert in the freezer and allowing it to thaw slightly before serving can help it hold up better. This extra chill time makes it easier to slice and keeps it from becoming too soft too quickly.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

This dessert is best served chilled and enjoyed within a couple of days, though it rarely lasts that long! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and keep it refrigerated or frozen until you’re ready to serve. For neat slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. If you’re preparing it for a party or large gathering, consider doubling the recipe or serving it in individual cups for a fun, portioned twist.

Creative Variations to Try

Although the original recipe is fantastic as-is, there’s always room to play. Swap the coconut pudding for banana, lemon, or chocolate pudding to change the flavor profile. Use crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies instead of Ritz crackers for a sweeter base. Add mix-ins like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sliced fruit to the filling for extra texture and flavor. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup over the top just before serving can also add a decadent touch. The base recipe is forgiving and flexible, making it ideal for experimentation and personalization.

A Dessert That Delivers Smiles Every Time

One of the best things about Ice Cream Pudding Dessert is how universally loved it is. Kids adore the creamy, sweet layers and crunchy base. Adults appreciate the subtle complexity from the toasted coconut and buttery crust. It’s a dish that bridges generations and brings people together around the table. Whether it’s served at a Fourth of July barbecue, a church potluck, or a birthday party, it’s bound to draw compliments and requests for seconds.

Conclusion: A Classic Worth Passing On

Ice Cream Pudding Dessert isn’t just a treat—it’s a tradition. It represents everything we love about homemade desserts: simple ingredients, easy preparation, and unforgettable flavor. The nostalgic charm, paired with the creamy richness and satisfying crunch, makes it a timeless addition to any recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving something sweet and comforting, this dessert delivers on all fronts. Keep it in your recipe box, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the smiles it brings—because some desserts never go out of style.