If dazzling layers, vibrant berries, and the kind of creamy, cool texture that makes you close your eyes and smile are your thing, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe! Imagine fluffy pudding, fresh bananas, sweet strawberries, buttery cookie crumbs, and a gloriously crunchy strawberry topping, all in every dreamy bite. This is the dessert to wow your family, thrill at a potluck, or just indulge on a sunny afternoon. Let’s get into every scrumptious step of this crowd-pleaser!

Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind an unforgettable Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component is essential, from the ripe fruit to the crunchy topping, creating layers of taste and texture that truly shine together.

Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix (3.4 oz box): Forms the rich, creamy foundation of the pudding layers with minimal fuss.
Cold Milk (2 cups): Helps the pudding set with the perfect consistency—chilled milk makes it thicken up quickly and smoothly.
Whipped Cream or Whipped Topping (1 cup): Folds into the pudding for an airy, luscious texture; homemade or store-bought both work beautifully.
Ripe Bananas (2, sliced): Their natural sweetness and soft bite are classic here—choose spotty but firm bananas for best results.
Fresh Strawberries (1 cup, sliced): Adds a sweet-tart burst that brightens every bite; slice just before assembling for extra freshness.
Crushed Vanilla Wafers or Golden Oreos (1 cup): Sprinkle in for buttery crunch; crush them coarsely for that classic layered effect.
Strawberry Crunch Topping (1/2 cup): This is the grand finale—a mix of freeze-dried strawberries and cookie crumbs for a bold, eye-catching finish.

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base

Start by whisking the vanilla instant pudding mix with cold milk in a large mixing bowl. You want to blend until it thickens—usually just 2 to 3 minutes does the trick. Let it chill in the fridge for about 5 minutes so it thickens up further, giving you that perfect creamy bite.

Step 2: Fold in Whipped Cream

Once your pudding has chilled, bring in the airy factor by gently folding in the whipped cream or whipped topping. Use a spatula and light hand to keep things fluffy. Overmixing can deflate your pudding, so just fold until it’s incorporated and dreamy.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Grab your favorite trifle bowl, baking dish, or cute individual cups—whatever suits your mood! Begin the layering with a generous scoop of pudding at the base. Next, add an even layer of sliced bananas, followed by a fresh strawberry layer, topping these off with crunchy crushed vanilla wafers or cookies.

Step 4: Repeat the Layers

Continue building those beautiful layers: pudding, bananas, strawberries, and crunchy cookies, until you reach the top of your serving dish. The final layer should always be a thick, creamy swath of pudding to crown the whole masterpiece.

Step 5: Add the Strawberry Crunch Topping

Now for the magic touch! Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping generously over the top pudding layer. This mix of crushed freeze-dried strawberries and cookie crumbs adds not just flavor, but the prettiest pink hue and irresistible crunch you could ever want.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Let all the layers meld by refrigerating your Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe for at least an hour. Chilling helps the cookies soften a touch (but not too much!) and gives all the flavors time to mingle. When ready, scoop out hearty servings and enjoy your sweet, nostalgic treat!

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

Take your Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe over the top with gorgeous garnishes. Top each serving with a few fresh banana and strawberry slices, a sprinkling of extra strawberry crunch, and even a dollop of whipped cream if you like. A single mint leaf can add a pop of green and make your dessert truly Instagram-worthy!

Side Dishes

Although this dessert is a showstopper on its own, it pairs well with lighter fare like crisp shortbread cookies or a tangy citrus salad. Coffee or iced tea also complements the creamy, fruity flavors perfectly when you’re enjoying it as part of a special brunch or afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe a playful twist by crafting parfaits in mason jars, layering the ingredients in individual small glasses, or even assembling them in a large trifle bowl for a striking centerpiece. For parties, try mini dessert cups—an instant hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers hold up beautifully if you keep them covered in the refrigerator. The pudding actually gets even more flavorful as it sits—just note that the crunchy layers will start to soften after a day. Try to enjoy within 2 to 3 days for the best balance of textures and flavors.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the texture of the bananas and the pudding can change, so it’s not ideal for this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe. If you do have to freeze leftovers, wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge, knowing the texture may be a bit different (though still tasty).

Reheating

This pudding is meant to be served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. If your pudding has been in the fridge for several hours or overnight, just give it a few minutes at room temperature before serving so the flavors can shine.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade vanilla pudding recipe, go ahead and use it—it only elevates the dessert. Just make sure the pudding is completely cooled before assembling.

What’s in the strawberry crunch topping?

The strawberry crunch topping is a delicious blend of crushed freeze-dried strawberries and cookie crumbs (like vanilla wafers or golden Oreos). It’s what gives this Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe its irresistible texture and signature color.

How far in advance can I make this dessert?

You can assemble the dessert up to 24 hours ahead. The cookies will soften slightly, but it will still taste fantastic. Wait to add the final strawberry crunch topping until just before serving for the best crunch.

Is this pudding gluten-free?

The standard recipe isn’t gluten-free, but you can easily swap out the vanilla wafers or Oreos for your favorite gluten-free cookies, and make sure your pudding mix is gluten-free, too.

Can I make this vegan?

Definitely! Use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat), a vegan-friendly pudding mix, coconut whipped cream, and your choice of vegan cookies. It’s still every bit as delicious, just 100% plant-powered.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring cheer to a table or simply want to treat yourself to something playful and utterly delicious, the Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe is for you. Layered with love and brimming with flavor, it’s one of those desserts you’ll crave again and again. Give it a try—your taste buds (and lucky friends or family) will thank you!

Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 8 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a delightful Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding that offers a perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures. This easy-to-make dessert is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Base:

1 box vanilla instant pudding mix (3.4 oz)
2 cups cold milk

Additional Layers:

1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
2 ripe bananas, sliced
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers or golden Oreos
1/2 cup strawberry crunch topping

Instructions

Prepare the Pudding Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture thickens (about 2-3 minutes). Place the pudding in the refrigerator to chill for 5 minutes.
Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture using a spatula.
Layer the Ingredients: In a serving dish or individual cups, add a layer of pudding at the bottom. Top with a layer of sliced bananas, followed by strawberries. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the fruit layers.
Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layering process until the dish is full, finishing with a final layer of pudding on top.
Add the Strawberry Crunch Topping: Generously sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping over the final pudding layer. Garnish with extra slices of bananas and strawberries for a vibrant presentation.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, fruity, and crunchy delight!