Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and no baking required, it’s a hassle-free dessert.
  • Flavorful Layers: The combination of creamy banana pudding, crunchy vanilla wafers, and the sweet, tangy strawberry topping is irresistible.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
  • Customizable: You can adjust the topping or add garnishes for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pudding layer:

  • 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
  • 4 bananas, sliced
  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers

For the strawberry crunch topping:

  • 1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

  1. Prepare the pudding layer:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until it thickens.
    • Gently fold in half of the whipped topping.
  2. Assemble the dessert:
    • In a 9×13-inch dish, layer half of the vanilla wafers across the bottom.
    • Add half of the banana slices on top, followed by half of the banana pudding mixture.
    • Repeat the layers with the remaining wafers, bananas, and pudding.
    • Spread the remaining whipped topping over the final pudding layer.
  3. Prepare the strawberry crunch topping:
    • In a small bowl, mix the crushed Golden Oreos, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter until well combined.
    • Evenly sprinkle the mixture over the top of the pudding.
  4. Chill:
    • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Twist: Swap vanilla wafers with chocolate wafers or add a layer of chocolate pudding.
  • Fresh Fruit Addition: Add sliced fresh strawberries or blueberries for a fruitier bite.
  • Nutty Crunch: Mix crushed nuts like pecans or almonds into the strawberry crunch topping for extra texture.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free pudding mix, milk, and whipped topping for a vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for prepping a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

2. Can I substitute the banana pudding mix?

You can use vanilla pudding mix if banana pudding is unavailable, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

3. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried ones?

Fresh strawberries won’t provide the same crunch, but you can add them as a garnish for extra freshness.

4. What can I use instead of Golden Oreos?

Vanilla wafers or graham crackers work well as alternatives.

5. How do I prevent bananas from browning?

Toss the banana slices in lemon juice before layering to slow down browning.

6. Can I freeze this dessert?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change after thawing.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free vanilla wafers and cookies to make it gluten-free.

8. Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream adds a fresh touch.

9. How do I crush the Oreos and strawberries?

Use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.

10. Can I add extra layers?

Yes, feel free to create more layers depending on the size of your dish.

Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is a deliciously easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy banana pudding layers and sweet, crunchy topping, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it to your liking, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite of this classic Southern-inspired treat!

 


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Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is a no-bake, creamy dessert with layers of banana pudding, vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, and a vibrant strawberry crunch topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, this nostalgic treat is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

 


Ingredients

For the Pudding Layer:

  • 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (thawed, e.g., Cool Whip)
  • 4 bananas, sliced
  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafers

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

  • 1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Layer:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk banana pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
  2. Fold in half of the whipped topping gently to maintain the fluffiness.

Assemble the Dessert:

  1. In a 9×13-inch dish, arrange half the vanilla wafers in a single layer.
  2. Add half the banana slices over the wafers, then spread half the pudding mixture evenly on top.
  3. Repeat the layers with remaining wafers, bananas, and pudding mixture.
  4. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the final pudding layer.

Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

  1. Combine crushed Golden Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter in a small bowl.
  2. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the whipped topping layer.

Chill:

  • Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

  • For added freshness, toss banana slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • Use a food processor or a zip-top bag and rolling pin to crush cookies and strawberries.
  • This dessert is best served chilled and does not freeze well.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

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