jimmy carter delight recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
jimmy carter delight recipe
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The Best jimmy carter delight recipe

I’m so excited to share this Jimmy Carter Delight recipe with you all. This classic dessert has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. The story behind this recipe is that it was allegedly served at President Jimmy Carter’s White House dinner parties during his presidency in the 1970s.

It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of caramel and the crunch of pecans. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make and how versatile it is for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. My kids love helping me make it, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes thirds!)

The best part? It’s actually relatively healthy, thanks to the use of natural sweeteners and wholesome ingredients. We’ve even served it at family gatherings and potlucks, and it’s always been a hit.

I’ve modified the original recipe slightly to suit our tastes, but feel free to follow the original if you prefer. One thing’s for sure: this Jimmy Carter Delight is a delight for your taste buds and your soul! I’ve made it countless times, but every time I take a bite, I’m transported back to those special moments spent around the dinner table with loved ones.

It’s more than just a dessert – it’s a memory maker. And that’s why I love sharing it with all of you.

Jimmy Carter Delight

Jimmy Carter Delight

4.7 from 717 votes

A classic Southern dessert featuring layers of creamy vanilla pudding, crushed pineapple, and toasted pecans over a buttery graham cracker crust. This no-bake treat is a refreshing and indulgent tribute to the 39th president’s Georgia roots.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 1/2 cups cold milk
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, well drained
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Topping

1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted

👨‍🍳Directions

1Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a medium bowl.
2Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
4In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
5Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
6In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
7Fold the pudding into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
8Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and 1/2 cup toasted chopped pecans.
9In another bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until no white streaks remain.
10Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust.
11Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set, preferably overnight.
12Just before serving, prepare the topping.
13Whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
14Spread the whipped cream over the set dessert and sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup toasted pecans.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 280mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For best results, drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent a watery filling. Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.

Watch Video Of How Jimmy Carter Delight Works

This Jimmy Carter Delight recipe is truly a timeless treat that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck gathering, its rich flavors and crunchy texture are sure to delight everyone’s senses.

And don’t worry about storage – just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 5 days before serving again. My kids still beg me to make this every week (they’re hooked!)

, so be prepared for requests if you serve this at your next family gathering.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jimmy Carter Delight

Q: What is the origin of Jimmy Carter Delight?

The exact origin of Jimmy Carter Delight is unclear, but rumor has it that President Jimmy Carter’s White House staff served it at dinner parties during his presidency.

Q: Can I substitute different types of nuts in this recipe?

Yes! While pecans are traditional in this recipe, you can definitely experiment with other types of nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts.

Q: How long does this dessert keep fresh?

This dessert will keep fresh for up to 5 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Sure thing! You can make the base layer up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

No, unfortunately not – while there are some vegan-friendly alternatives available, traditional Jimmy Carter Delight relies on dairy products like heavy cream and butter.

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