There’s just something downright magical about a big spoonful of Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding. Imagine creamy layers of banana pudding, bursts of fresh fruit, and a whimsical strawberry crunch topping that brings everything together with a delightful texture and pop of color. This is the kind of dessert that turns a regular day into a celebration, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something unforgettable. If you’re ready to fall in love with a new family favorite, this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is about to make its way into your heart (and probably your recipe box) forever!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding so irresistible is just how simple yet essential each ingredient is. Every component, from the creamy pudding to the vibrant strawberry crunch, plays a role in the taste, the texture, and even the gorgeous colors of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll love it):

Banana pudding mix (3.4 oz, instant): The star that brings classic banana flavor and silky smoothness with almost no effort at all.
Cold milk (2 cups): Helps the pudding set up perfectly; be sure it’s cold for a thicker, creamier result.
Whipped topping (8 oz, thawed): Folds in lightness and makes every bite cloud-like and dreamy.
Fresh strawberries (1 cup, sliced): Add a juicy, sweet-tart burst and gorgeous color throughout the pudding.
Bananas (2, sliced): Naturally, these bring that classic banana pudding flavor and creamy texture.
Vanilla wafers (1 cup, crushed): The nostalgic crunch and sweet vanilla flavor everyone loves in a pudding.
Freeze-dried strawberries (1/2 cup, crushed): The secret to the crave-worthy strawberry crunch topping—intense strawberry flavor and color!
Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Binds the crunch layer, making it extra satisfying and golden.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Just a dash deepens the pudding’s flavor and makes everything taste homemade.
Optional: Extra strawberries and banana slices for garnish: For a festive finishing touch and even more fresh fruit flavor.

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding

Step 1: Whisk Up the Banana Pudding

Start by whisking the instant banana pudding mix with the cold milk in a large bowl. Give it a good, brisk whisk for about 2 minutes, until the mixture thickens and starts to look creamy and luscious. This sets the foundation for the rest of the layers and ensures every spoonful is smooth as silk.

Step 2: Fold in Whipped Topping and Vanilla

Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping and vanilla extract. Take your time here—use a spatula and a light hand so you don’t deflate all that lovely airiness. The whipped topping gives the pudding its signature cloud-like texture and makes the whole dessert feel extra special.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the mixture looks crumbly and colorful. This crunchy layer is what sets Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding apart from the rest and makes every bite a little party.

Step 4: Layer the Pudding, Fruit, and Crunch

In your chosen dish—a 9×9-inch pan or cute individual cups—spread half of the banana pudding mixture as the first layer. Scatter half of the sliced bananas and strawberries over the pudding, then sprinkle half of the strawberry crunch topping. This is where the magic happens, so don’t worry about perfection; just aim for even layers.

Step 5: Repeat the Layers

Now, go for round two: layer on the remaining pudding, followed by the rest of the fresh fruit, and finish with the remaining strawberry crunch. Each layer builds flavor and texture, making every scoop a true delight.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Cover your dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This gives everything time to meld together—the pudding thickens, the flavors mingle, and the crunch softens just enough for the perfect bite.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, add extra strawberries and banana slices on top for a gorgeous, inviting finish. Serve it up and watch those smiles appear!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding

Garnishes

For a truly show-stopping presentation, always finish Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding with extra fresh strawberries and banana slices. If you want to get fancy, a little extra sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried strawberries or even a dollop of whipped topping can make it look (and taste) utterly irresistible. A sprig of mint never hurts either!

Side Dishes

This dessert is rich and fruity, so it pairs beautifully with lighter, refreshing sides. Try serving it after a simple grilled meal, or alongside a platter of fresh melon or citrus salad at brunch. If you’re feeling playful, set out a bowl of extra vanilla wafers for dipping, too!

Creative Ways to Present

Individual parfait glasses or mason jars are a fun, portable way to serve Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding at parties or picnics. For a family-style option, a trifle dish really shows off those gorgeous layers. You could even try mini dessert cups for a tasting menu or buffet spread—just be prepared for them to disappear fast!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better as they mingle, though the crunch topping will soften a bit over time (still delicious!).

Freezing

Technically, you can freeze this dessert, but the texture of the pudding and fruit may change once thawed. If you do freeze it, wrap it well and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. For best results, add the crunch topping fresh after thawing.

Reheating

This is definitely a chilled dessert, so reheating isn’t needed! Just scoop straight from the fridge and enjoy. If you want to revive the crunch, add a sprinkle of fresh strawberry crunch topping before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream gives a slightly richer flavor and fresher taste. Just whip up about 2 cups of heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form and use it in place of the store-bought whipped topping.

What can I use if I can’t find freeze-dried strawberries?

If freeze-dried strawberries aren’t available, you can substitute with extra crushed vanilla wafers or even a few crushed graham crackers for crunch. The strawberry flavor will be more subtle, but the dessert will still be absolutely delicious.

How far in advance can I make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding?

You can assemble the pudding up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just keep it well covered in the fridge and add any fresh garnishes right before serving for the best appearance and texture.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free instant pudding mix, plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and coconut whipped topping. Double-check your cookies and butter for dairy-free versions, and you’ll have a treat everyone can enjoy.

Can I use a different fruit in place of strawberries?

Definitely! While the strawberry crunch is what makes this recipe unique, you can swap in blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that using different fruits will change the flavor profile and color.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s a true crowd-pleaser with a playful twist, you have to try Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding. It’s creamy, fruity, crunchy, and absolutely addictive—guaranteed to become a new favorite at your table. Go ahead and make a batch; you’ll be hooked after just one bite!

Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and creamy Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding that layers smooth banana pudding with fresh strawberries, bananas, and a crunchy strawberry-infused vanilla wafer topping. Perfectly chilled and garnished, this dessert combines fruity freshness with a satisfying crunch for a delicious treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Banana Pudding

1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Fruit Layers

1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
2 bananas, sliced

Strawberry Crunch Topping

1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Optional Garnish

Extra fresh strawberries and banana slices

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the pudding: In a mixing bowl, whisk the banana pudding mix and cold milk together for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping and vanilla extract into the pudding mixture until fully combined, creating a creamy texture.
Make the strawberry crunch topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Stir well to evenly coat the crumbs and create a crunchy topping mixture.
Layer the dessert: In a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups, spread half of the banana pudding mixture as the base. Then add a layer of sliced bananas and fresh strawberries evenly across the pudding.
Add the crunch topping: Sprinkle half of the strawberry crunch topping over the fruit layer to add texture and flavor.
Repeat layers: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining banana pudding, followed by the remaining fresh fruit and crunch topping to build a full dessert.
Chill: Cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set and flavors to meld.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish the pudding with extra fresh strawberry slices and banana pieces for an appealing presentation and added freshness.

Notes

For best results, use fresh ripe bananas and strawberries for sweetness and texture.
Freeze-dried strawberries add a unique crunch and intense flavor; if unavailable, substitute with freeze-dried raspberries or omit.
Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed before folding to maintain smooth consistency.
Refrigerate for the full 2 hours to ensure the pudding layers set properly.
This dessert can be prepared a day in advance for convenience and deeper flavor melding.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American