Keto Layered Dessert — Keto Chocolate Delight Recipe
Keto Layered Dessert lovers, this one’s for you — a no-bake, show-stopping, sugar-free version of the infamous Sex in a Pan, reimagined as a diabetic-friendly crowd-pleaser. Creamy, chocolatey, and ridiculously simple to pull together, this dish tastes indulgent but keeps the carbs low. Ready to make jaws drop at your next gathering? Let’s go.
Quick snapshot — what this is and why it rocks
Think buttery pecan shortbread, a light whipped vanilla cream-cheese layer, a luscious chocolate layer (you choose pudding or whipped), and a cloud of sugar-free whipped cream on top. It’s basically dessert decadence without the sugar crash. Perfect for keto, low-carb diets, and folks managing blood sugar.
Why you’ll love it:
- Less than 5g net carbs per slice (depending on sweetener and exact portions).
- No refined sugar, gluten-free by default, and totally customizable.
- Two options for the middle chocolate layer: a silky Keto Dessert With Cream Cheese And Sugar Free Pudding or a quicker Keto Chocolate Delight whipped version.
Sound good? Cool — here’s the full scoop, step-by-step, with pro tips so your layers look flawless.
Introduction to the recipe
This recipe started as a cheeky nod to the retro classic with the naughty name, but it’s fully modernized for sugar-free living. I first made my version back in 2017 and tweaked it over the years to perfect texture and flavor. The shortbread crust keeps the whole thing grounded while the three soft layers bring the party. Serve small slices — they’re rich!
FYI: You can call it Robert Redford dessert if you want to be fancy. Or keep the original name for fun. Either way, people will dig in.
What makes this recipe irresistible
Why does this low-carb dessert punch above its weight? Texture contrast. The crust is firm and slightly crumbly; the cream-cheese layer is sweet and silky; the chocolate layer is airy-creamy (or pudding-smooth); and the whipped top is light and festive. Combined? Pure harmony. Also, you don’t miss sugar — the right sweetener (I use an allulose-monkin blend) keeps everything smooth and non-gritty.
Bold tip: use a powdered allulose blend for the creamy layers — it dissolves better and prevents graininess.

Ingredients — simple and swap-friendly
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need and why. (Full measurements will depend on the recipe card you use; this is the conceptual list.)
Crust
- Almond flour — base and body
- Pecan meal — nutty flavor and crunch (or grind pecans yourself)
- Powdered allulose/monk fruit blend — keeps crust tender
- Melted butter (or coconut oil) — binds and browns
Cream-cheese layer
- Full-fat cream cheese — the rich center
- Heavy cream — lightens and whips
- Powdered allulose — dissolves smoothly
- Vanilla extract — flavor booster
Chocolate layer — pick one
- Whipped chocolate option (fast): heavy cream, Dutch cocoa powder, powdered allulose, vanilla
- Pudding option (classic): heavy cream + unsweetened almond milk + sugar-free chocolate + thickener (xanthan or cornstarch alternative) — this gives a denser, pudding-like layer
- Protein pudding: a protein-powder-based pudding if you want extra protein
Topping
- Heavy cream whipped with powdered allulose and vanilla
- Sugar-free chocolate shavings or chips for decoration
- Extra chopped pecans (optional)
Substitutions: Use coconut cream for dairy-free; swap pecans for walnuts; use coconut oil if you can’t have butter. For nut-free crust, use the coconut flour-based crust (but tweak liquid — coconut flour absorbs a lot).
Step-by-step: How to make this Keto Layered Dessert
Follow these concise steps for perfect layers. Keep bowls chilled for best whipping results.
1 — Make the pecan crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (or skip baking if you prefer a firmer cold-set crust).
- Mix almond flour, pecan meal, and powdered sweetener. Stir in melted butter until mixture clumps.
- Press evenly into a lined 9×9 (or medium) baking dish.
- Bake until golden (about 12–15 min) then cool completely. Cooling is essential — warm crust will break the whipped layers.
2 — Build the cream-cheese layer
- Beat heavy cream, powdered sweetener, and vanilla to soft peaks.
- In a separate bowl, beat room-temp cream cheese until smooth. Gradually fold whipped cream into the cream cheese until silky.
- Spread gently over cooled crust. Chill briefly (10–15 minutes) to set.
3 — Add the chocolate layer
Option A — Chocolate whipped (my go-to):
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sweetener. Add cocoa powder gradually and whip to firm peaks. Fold lightly and spread over the cream-cheese layer.
Option B — Sugar-free pudding (retro, richer):
- Heat cream + almond milk; whisk cocoa + sweetener into a slurry, temper into hot milk, add melted sugar-free chocolate and a pinch of xanthan (or cornstarch slurry). Cool slightly, then spread. This layer needs more time to chill and set.
4 — Top with whipped cream and finish
- Whip final batch of heavy cream with powdered sweetener and vanilla to stiff peaks.
- Spread over chocolate layer.
- Garnish with chocolate curls and chopped pecans. Chill 2–4 hours (or overnight) for clean slicing.
Pro tip: chill fully before slicing — the layers hold shape better and slices look restaurant-ready.

Pro tips for perfect results
- Room temp cream cheese blends smoothest — let it sit 30 minutes.
- Powdered allulose prevents grit; if using erythritol-based sweeteners, expect some mouth-cooling.
- Do not overwhip cream — stop at stiff peaks. Overwhipped cream turns grainy (and then into butter).
- Spread gently: add dollops and smooth — don’t drag one layer across another.
- Use a hot, clean knife and wipe between cuts for neat slices. Dip knife in hot water, dry, then slice.
Variations to try (because variety is fun)
- Peanut-butter swap: replace cream-cheese layer with sugar-free peanut butter whipped layer — legit heavenly.
- Berry lift: scatter raspberries between layers for a fresh tart pop.
- Frozen version: freeze fully, then slice frozen for cleaner edges — thaw 10–15 min before serving.
- Pudding-forward: use my Easy Keto Pudding Dessert recipe for a thicker middle that stays put.
- Protein boost: pick Keto Pudding Dessert made with protein powder for post-workout treats.
Best ways to serve
Serve chilled with a tiny dollop of unsweetened whipped cream and a few toasted pecan halves. Pair with coffee or a bitter espresso to balance the sweetness. For parties, make small squares — they’re rich and people will want second bites.
Serving note: This dessert is rich — small slices (about 2×2 inches) are perfect.
Storage and leftovers
- Refrigerator: keep covered for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer: double-wrap and freeze up to 3 months. Slice from frozen for best presentation.
- Make ahead: assemble up to 24 hours before serving — flavors meld beautifully.
Quick tip: left-over slices are AMAZING slightly frozen — behaves like a creamy icebox cake.
FAQs (short and useful)
Which chocolate layer should I pick — pudding or whipped?
If you want speed and airy texture, go whipped. If you crave classic density and nostalgia, pick the pudding. Both are delicious.
Can I make this nut-free?
Yes — use my coconut flour crust recipe and omit pecans in filling. Texture will differ but it works.
My cream got runny — help!
Chill the bowl and beaters, then re-whip. If overwhipped, add a little cream cheese or more whipped cream to stabilize.
Is it truly sugar-free?
With allulose/monk blends and sugar-free chocolate, yes. Note small natural sugars from dairy remain.
Can kids eat this?
Absolutely — they’ll love it (and probably fight over it).
Final thoughts — why this is my go-to sugar free dessert
This Keto Layered Dessert checks so many boxes: it looks impressive, it’s adaptable, and it truly satisfies cravings without the sugar hangover. Whether you go full retro pudding or take the lighter whipped route, you’ll get that nostalgic Sex in a Pan vibe with modern, health-conscious ingredients.
If you try it, please tell me which chocolate layer you picked and how it turned out — also tag your photos so I can drool over them. 😉 Baking for friends? Bring this, and I promise they’ll ask for the recipe.
Keywords used in this article (naturally & bolded)
You’ll find the recipe variations and options above that match these search terms: Keto Layered Dessert, Keto Dessert With Cream Cheese And Sugar Free Pudding, Easy Keto Pudding Dessert, Keto Chocolate Delight, Keto Chocolate Delight Recipe, Keto Pudding Dessert, Keto Chocolate Lasagna Recipe, Keto Chocolate Dessert, Keto Chocolate Pudding Dessert.
Happy baking (or no-baking)! Want the printable recipe card with exact measurements and oven times tailored to your pan size? I can drop that next.
Follow me on Pinterest for daily new recipes.

Ultimate Keto Layered Dessert — Sugar-Free Sex in a Pan (No-Bake)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 Servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
Description
Creamy, chocolatey, and totally sugar-free — this layered no-bake bar is perfect for keto, diabetes-friendly menus, or anyone cutting added sugar. Below you’ll find a refreshed version of the recipe with the same great structure: a nutty pecan-almond base, a whipped cream-cheese middle, your choice of two chocolate layers (pudding-style or quick whipped), and a cloud of sugar-free whipped cream on top.
Ingredients
For the Pecan-Almond Base
- 1½ cups blanched almond flour
- ½ cup pecan flour (or pulse pecans in a food processor until finely ground)
- 2 tbsp powdered allulose/monk-fruit blend (Besti or similar)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter (measure solid, melt before using)
For the Cream-Cheese Layer
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered allulose/monk-fruit blend
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Chocolate Layer — Option A (Pudding-style, classic)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup powdered allulose/monk-fruit blend
- 3 oz sugar-free dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp xanthan gum (add sparingly)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Layer — Option B (Faster whipped version)
- 1⅓ cup heavy cream (see note)
- 1/3 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup powdered allulose/monk-fruit blend
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Top Whipped Cream
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered allulose/monk-fruit blend
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 oz sugar-free dark chocolate, shaved for garnish
Instructions
1 — Make the crust
-
Heat the oven to 350°F. Line your pan with parchment (leave paper overhanging for easy removal).
-
In a bowl, combine almond flour, pecan meal, and the powdered sweetener. Stir in melted butter until the mixture holds together when pressed.
-
Press the crumbs firmly into the lined pan in an even layer.
-
Bake 12–15 minutes, until the crust is set and starts to turn golden. Let cool completely.
Bold tip: Cool the crust fully — a warm crust will soften the whipped layers and ruin clean lines.
2 — Prepare the cream-cheese layer
-
Whip the heavy cream, powdered sweetener, and vanilla to stiff peaks.
-
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese gently until homogeneous.
-
Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Pop the pan into the fridge while you make the chocolate layer.
3 — Chocolate layer (choose one)
Option A — Pudding-style (makes a thicker, denser chocolate layer):
-
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the heavy cream, almond milk, chopped chocolate, butter, and powdered sweetener. Stir constantly until the chocolate melts and the sweetener dissolves — about 5–10 minutes. Don’t let it scorch.
-
Sprinkle the xanthan gum in very slowly while whisking hard to avoid lumps; cook another 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
-
Let cool about 15 minutes (it will still be pourable). Pour over the cream-cheese layer and spread gently. Cover surface with plastic wrap (touching the chocolate) and chill at least 2 hours.
Option B — Quick chocolate-whip (speedy, airy layer):
-
Whip the heavy cream, powdered sweetener, and vanilla to soft peaks. Gradually add the cocoa powder and continue whipping to firm peaks.
-
Spread this chocolate whipped cream over the cream-cheese layer and chill.
FYI: Option A gives a traditional pudding texture; Option B is lighter and faster.
4 — Finish with whipped topping
-
Whip the final 1½ cups heavy cream with powdered sweetener and vanilla to stiff peaks.
-
Spread over the chocolate layer and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
-
Refrigerate 1–2 hours more to firm everything up before slicing.
Notes
- Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Cover and refrigerate up to 4 days (best within 1–2 days).
- Freezer: Freeze whole or flash-freeze individual slices on a sheet, then wrap and store up to 3 months. Thaw 10–20 minutes at room temp before serving, or serve slightly frozen for a firmer texture.
- Variations & swaps
- Nut-free crust: Use a coconut-flour-based crust (adjust liquids—coconut flour soaks up moisture).
- Dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese.
- Peanut-butter twist: Swap the cream-cheese layer for sugar-free peanut butter whipped (1:1).
- Add fruit: Top with a few raspberries for color (note: adds carbs).
- Protein option: Use protein-pudding for the middle if you want extra protein.
- Troubleshooting
- Grainy texture? Use powdered allulose; erythritol-based sweeteners can feel gritty.
- Chocolate won’t thicken (Option A)? Ensure you whisk in xanthan slowly; too much makes it slimy. A tiny cornstarch slurry (not keto) or extra xanthan in tiny increments fixes looseness.
- Runny layers? Chill longer between layers and don’t spread until layers are sufficiently set.
- Notes & final thoughts
- The recipe offers two chocolate approaches — pick what fits your timeline and texture preference.
- The tiny amount of natural sugar in the dairy accounts for the small residual sugar grams; otherwise this treat contains no added sugar when you use sugar-free chocolate and an appropriate sweetener.
- Bold reminder: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature so it blends silky smooth with the whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 433
- Sugar: 3.1g
- Fat: 43.6g
- Carbohydrates: 9.3g
- Fiber: 4.1g
- Protein: 5.9g