I created this show-stopping Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding for a summer BBQ and it's become my most requested dessert! The combination of silky vanilla pudding fresh fruit and that amazing strawberry cookie crunch creates pure magic in every spoonful. My family begs for this refreshing treat and guests always leave with the recipe.
What Makes This Pudding Special
This isn't your ordinary banana pudding. The addition of fresh strawberries and that irresistible strawberry cookie crunch takes it to a whole new level. I love how easy it is to throw together and watching everyone's eyes light up when they see those beautiful layers. It's become my go to dessert for any gathering.
Everything You Need
- Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix: This creates our velvety smooth base.
- Cold Milk: Make sure it's cold for the perfect pudding texture.
- Whipped Cream: Gives us those light fluffy layers.
- Ripe Bananas: Look for ones with spots they're sweeter.
- Fresh Strawberries: The prettier the berries the prettier your dessert.
- Crushed Vanilla Wafers: These add such a lovely crunch.
- Strawberry Crunch Topping: My secret weapon for that wow factor.
Let's Make Magic
- Start With The Pudding
- Whisk your pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens about 2-3 minutes then pop it in the fridge to set.
- Make It Extra Fluffy
- Gently fold in the whipped cream you want to keep all that wonderful lightness.
- Layer Of Love
- Build your layers pudding fruit cookies repeat. Take your time here these layers are your masterpiece.
- Crown Your Creation
- Sprinkle that gorgeous strawberry crunch on top.
- Final Touches
- Add some fresh fruit on top just before serving it makes everything look extra special.
My Best Tips
- Pick Perfect Bananas: Those speckled ones have the best flavor.
- No Lumpy Pudding: Keep whisking until it's silky smooth.
- Patience Pays Off: Let it chill properly the flavors get even better.
Make It Your Own
- Switch Up The Crunch: Sometimes I use toasted coconut or crushed pecans.
- Try New Fruits: Add some blueberries or peaches when they're in season.
- Watching Calories?: Light pudding and whipped topping work great too.
Perfect Ways To Serve
I always serve this nice and cold it tastes like summer in every bite. It's perfect after a BBQ or for any outdoor gathering. Sometimes I add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pure heaven!
Keep It Fresh
You can make this a day ahead just save the crunch topping for right before serving. Leftovers keep in the fridge for about 2 days but trust me they never last that long in my house!
Quick Answers To Your Questions
- Need To Make Ahead? Go for it just add the topping right before serving.
- Can You Freeze It? Skip the freezer it changes the texture too much.
- Other Fruit Options? Any berry works great peaches too!