Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe

If you adore banana pudding but crave a fresh twist, this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is going to steal your dessert-loving heart! Imagine the nostalgic, creamy banana pudding you grew up with, layered with juicy strawberries and topped with a homemade strawberry crunch that’s as pretty as it is irresistible. The pudding is luscious, the fruit adds a burst of brightness, and the vibrant strawberry topping creates a crunch you’ll remember long after the last spoonful. This no-bake treat is as stunning on a party table as it is comforting for a weeknight family dessert—a showstopper that’s always a crowd pleaser!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Banana Pudding:

  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

  For the Layers:

  • 1 box vanilla wafers
  • 3 ripe bananas (sliced)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped)

  For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

  • 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin mix
  • 1/2 cup crushed golden Oreos
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (crushed)

  How to Make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding

  Step 1: Whip Up the Pudding Base

  Start by whisking together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk in a big mixing bowl. Just two minutes with a hand whisk is all it takes to get that classic, irresistible pudding texture. Once it’s thickened up, stir in the sweetened condensed milk—watch that pudding turn silky and rich! Finally, fold in the whipped topping gently, keeping as much fluffiness as possible for dreamy pudding layers.

  Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Crunch Topping

  Now for the magic: in a separate bowl, add your crushed golden Oreos, strawberry gelatin powder, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Hit it with a quick stir, making sure everything gets coated with that gorgeous pink strawberry power. This mixture is the show-stopping, bakery-style crunch that everyone will be asking about!

  Step 3: Layer the Pudding, Fruit, and Cookies

  Grab a 9×13-inch dish or your favorite trifle bowl. Lay down a base of vanilla wafers first—these will soak up all the pudding goodness. Then add a scatter of banana slices and some chopped strawberries for juicy pops of flavor. Spoon on a generous layer of pudding. Repeat with these layers until all your delicious ingredients have been used up, finishing with a thick, creamy layer of pudding on top.

  Step 4: Add the Strawberry Crunch Finale

  Spoon your prepared strawberry crunch mixture right over the top, scattering it evenly for a picture-perfect finish. The combination of vanilla, strawberry, and buttery cookie with that crunchy texture is absolutely unbeatable!

  Step 5: Chill to Perfection

  Cover your dish and refrigerate for at least four hours—or, if you can wait, let it chill overnight. This crucial time allows the flavors to mingle, the layers to set, and the cookies to soften just enough for that signature, spoonable comfort.

  How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding

  

  Garnishes

  Fresh sliced strawberries, extra banana coins, or a little dollop of whipped cream are beautiful finishing touches. If you’re feeling playful, sprinkle over extra freeze-dried strawberry crumbles or even a few more crushed cookies to really bring the pink party to life!

  Side Dishes

  While this dessert easily steals the show, it pairs wonderfully with a light, fresh side—think fruit salad, a tropical sorbet, or even iced tea. The creamy and crunchy Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is best contrasted by something refreshing and not too sweet, so your taste buds are always excited for the next bite.

  Creative Ways to Present

  Try making individual parfaits in mason jars for a grab-and-go dessert at picnics or parties. For a special gathering, serve in elegant glass trifle bowls to showcase those gorgeous layers. Or, make mini versions in shot glasses for a dazzling dessert table centerpiece—this eye-catching treat is made for making memories!

  Make Ahead and Storage

  Storing Leftovers

  Store any leftover Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days. The cookies will become even softer over time, and the strawberry crunch topping will retain a lovely bite. Just be sure to keep the pudding chilled so the bananas and fruit stay fresh and tasty.

  Freezing

  While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions of this dessert if you have an abundance. Simply wrap individual servings tightly in plastic and place in a freezer-safe container. Note that the texture of the bananas and cookies may soften after thawing, and the crunch topping becomes less crisp, but the flavors will still be delicious.

  Reheating

  No reheating is needed for this chilled delight! Just let refrigerated portions warm slightly at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and enhance the creamy textures. Frozen portions should be thawed overnight in the fridge for the best taste and consistency.

  FAQs

  Can I make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding in advance?

  Absolutely! In fact, this dessert gets even better after resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. The flavors deepen, and the cookies soften just enough without turning soggy. Just wait to add the topping until you’re ready to serve if you want maximum crunch.

  What if I don’t have freeze-dried strawberries?

  No worries! You can add a little extra strawberry gelatin mix or substitute with more fresh strawberries in the layers. While freeze-dried strawberries add vibrant color and extra crunch, the dessert will still taste fantastic without them.

  Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

  Definitely—homemade whipped cream will make your Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding taste even fresher and creamier. Whip up about 1 1/2 cups until soft peaks form and gently fold it into your pudding base.

  How do I prevent bananas from browning?

  Try tossing your banana slices with a little lemon juice before layering them into your pudding. This helps maintain their bright color and fresh flavor, even after chilling.

  Is there a gluten-free option for this pudding?

  Yes! Simply swap out the vanilla wafers and Golden Oreos for gluten-free versions, which are now widely available in many stores. You’ll still enjoy the same layers and crunch with a gluten-free twist.

  Final Thoughts

  If you’re searching for a dessert that brings big smiles and happy memories, give Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding a try! Each bite is creamy, fruity, and joyfully crunchy—pure comfort and celebration in a dish. Whip it up for your next gathering or just as a special treat, and watch it disappear. Enjoy every spoonful!

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  Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe

  5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 5 reviews

  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling)
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

  Print Recipe

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  Description

  Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this luscious Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding. Layers of creamy banana pudding, fresh fruit, and a crunchy strawberry topping create a dessert sensation that will have everyone coming back for more.

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  Ingredients

  For the Banana Pudding:

  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

  For the Layers:

  • 1 box vanilla wafers
  • 3 ripe bananas (sliced)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped)

  For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

  • 1 (3 oz) box strawberry gelatin mix
  • 1/2 cup crushed golden Oreos
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (crushed)

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  Instructions

  1. Prepare the Banana Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Add sweetened condensed milk and whisk until smooth. Fold in whipped topping.
  2. Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping: Combine crushed golden Oreos, strawberry gelatin powder, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter in a bowl.
  3. Assemble the Layers: In a 9×13-inch dish, layer vanilla wafers, banana slices, chopped strawberries, and banana pudding mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with pudding. Top with strawberry crunch topping.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

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  Notes

  • Enhance the flavor by using strawberry whipped topping or adding a layer of strawberry jam.
  • Homemade whipped cream can be substituted for store-bought whipped topping.