Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with every creamy, crunchy, fruity bite of Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding! This dessert combines layers of silky vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, juicy strawberries, and a nostalgic strawberry crunch crumble, turning a classic comfort dish into something unforgettable. It’s cool, luscious, and downright addictive—the kind of sweet treat you’ll want to bring to every picnic, cookout, or family get-together (and maybe just eat by the spoonful straight from the fridge).
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
For the pudding:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the layers:
- 4 ripe bananas (sliced)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 sleeve vanilla wafers or golden sandwich cookies (crushed)
- 1 cup strawberry crunch topping (made with crushed freeze-dried strawberries and golden Oreos or vanilla cookies)
- Optional: extra whipped topping and fruit for garnish
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Pudding Layer
In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until you get a thick, luscious pudding—about two minutes of whisking does the trick. Once that’s ready, gently stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, making sure everything is wonderfully smooth. Now, fold in the whipped topping. Be gentle and patient—this step is what gives your Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding its heavenly, airy texture.
Step 2: Start Layering the Goodness
Grab a 9×9-inch dish or a trifle bowl—anything roomy that will show off those beautiful layers. Spread half of the pudding mixture on the bottom for your base. Next, add a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries, tucking the fruit in snugly so every scoop will have a burst of flavor. Sprinkle on a generous layer of crushed vanilla wafers or golden cookies for that signature crunch and classic taste.
Step 3: Repeat and Build More Layers
Add the remaining pudding mixture, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon. Follow with more bananas, strawberries, and another helping of those crunchy cookie crumbs. The more layers you build, the more excitement you’ll find in every spoonful! Finish with a final creamy layer right to the edges.
Step 4: Add the Strawberry Crunch Magic
Now comes the fun part—scatter your homemade strawberry crunch topping evenly across the very top. This vibrant, pink-speckled crumb releases a sweet strawberry aroma and adds an irresistible bakery-style crunch that makes this dessert unforgettable. If you want to go the extra mile, top it off with extra whipped topping and a fan of sliced berries for pure dessert showmanship.
Step 5: Chill and Let the Flavors Mingle
Cover the entire dish and let it chill for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better if you have the patience). The cookies will soften just perfectly, and the flavors meld into creamy, fruity bliss. When it’s time to serve, your Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding will slice like a dream and taste even better than it looks!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference! Crown each serving with a swirl of extra whipped topping, a handful of freshly sliced strawberries and bananas, or even a few extra crumbs of that beloved strawberry crunch. Not only does this make your dessert look irresistible, but every bite comes with a little extra flair.
Side Dishes
While Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is the star of any dessert table, it pairs beautifully with a cool glass of sweet tea or a mug of hot coffee. If you’re feeling extra fancy, serve alongside other light fruit desserts or a platter of fresh berries for variety and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the traditional trifle dish! For parties, layer the pudding in individual mason jars or cocktail glasses so everyone gets their own Instagram-worthy parfait. If you’re hosting a large crowd, mini dessert cups or even hollowed-out strawberries make for a playful, portable twist. This pudding is as flexible and fun to present as it is to make.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (a rare event!), simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store in the refrigerator. The Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding will stay fresh for up to two days. Note that the cookies will continue to soften, but the dessert stays delicious and creamy.
Freezing
It’s best to enjoy this dessert fresh, but if needed, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture, keeping in mind the cookies may become a bit softer after freezing.
Reheating
This is a no-bake, chilled dessert, so there’s no need to reheat! Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding should be served straight from the refrigerator for the most refreshing experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works beautifully and adds a truly special touch. Just be sure to beat it to stiff peaks before folding it into the pudding for the right texture.
How far ahead can I assemble Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding?
You can assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, letting it chill overnight helps the flavors combine and the layers set up perfectly.
What can I substitute for the golden Oreos in the crunch topping?
You can use any vanilla-flavored cookie you like, such as vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even graham crackers mixed with freeze-dried strawberries for a similar effect.
Will the bananas turn brown?
The bananas will stay more fresh-looking for about a day thanks to the creamy pudding. If you want to keep them extra perky, try brushing slices lightly with lemon juice before layering.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Definitely! Use a plant-based milk for the pudding mix, swap in coconut whipped topping, and be sure to choose dairy-free cookies. The texture and flavor will still be wonderfully indulgent.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing dessert, this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is about to become your new go-to. It’s fun, fruity, and foolproof—so grab your mixing bowl and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a taste of pure joy!
Print
Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding. Layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, strawberries, and a crunchy strawberry topping come together for a no-bake dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the pudding:
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the layers:
- 4 ripe bananas (sliced)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
- 1 sleeve vanilla wafers or golden sandwich cookies (crushed)
- 1 cup strawberry crunch topping (made with crushed freeze-dried strawberries and golden Oreos or vanilla cookies)
- Optional: extra whipped topping and fruit for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
- Assemble the layers: In a 9×9-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the pudding mixture, followed by a layer of sliced bananas and strawberries, then a layer of crushed vanilla wafers. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining pudding. Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping evenly over the top.
- Chill and serve: Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with extra whipped topping and fruit if desired.
Notes
- To make strawberry crunch topping: pulse 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries and 10 golden Oreos or vanilla cookies in a food processor until crumbly. For best flavor, serve within 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
