Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sex in a Pan

Sex in a Pan” is a classic layered dessert with a provocative name and a delicious, crowd-pleasing flavor profile. Believed to have originated in the 1970s or 80s, it features a buttery pecan crust, a creamy cheesecake-like layer, two layers of pudding, and a whipped topping. This specific recipe is known for its perfect balance of sweetness and tang, as well as its use of French vanilla pudding for an extra rich flavor.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes (plus at least 4 hours chilling time)
  • Yield: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

  • Crust:
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
    • 1/4 cup sugar
    • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • Cream Cheese Layer:
    • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
    • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
    • 1 cup whipped topping
  • Pudding Layers
    • 1 (3.4 ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding mix
    • 1 (3.4 ounce) box instant chocolate pudding mix
    • 3 cups milk
  • Topping:
    • Remaining whipped topping
    • Optional: Chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Make the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix flour, pecans, sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Press into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake 20-25 minutes, until golden. Cool completely.
  2. Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until fluffy. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping. Spread over the cooled crust.
  3. Pudding Layers: Whisk both pudding mixes with milk (per package directions). Pour chocolate pudding over cream cheese, then vanilla pudding.
  4. Top and Chill: Spread remaining whipped topping over the pudding. Garnish with chocolate shavings (optional). Refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.

Notes

  • The recipe is incredibly adaptable. Experiment with different pudding flavors, toppings, or try a healthier version using sugar-free ingredients and lighter dairy options.
  • For a nut-free crust, try crushed graham crackers or pretzels.
  • To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free whipped topping.
  • Author: Juana M. Benedict
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking, Layering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg