Description

This Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring creamy instant banana pudding layered with fresh bananas and strawberries, topped with a crunchy mixture of vanilla wafers and freeze-dried strawberries. It’s easy to prepare, refreshingly fruity, and perfect for serving chilled on warm days or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Crunch Topping

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

Garnish (Optional)

Extra fresh strawberries
Extra banana slices

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Instructions

Prepare the Banana Pudding: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens to a smooth consistency.
Incorporate Whipped Topping and Vanilla: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping and vanilla extract into the pudding mixture until fully combined and creamy.
Make the Crunch Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Stir well to evenly coat all the crumbs with butter.
Layer the First Portion: In a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups, layer half of the banana pudding as the base, then add a layer of sliced bananas and fresh strawberries on top.
Add Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle half of the prepared strawberry crunch topping evenly over the fruit layer.
Repeat Layers: Add the remaining banana pudding, followed by the remaining banana and strawberry slices, and finish with the remaining crunch topping.
Chill: Cover the dish or cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with extra fresh strawberries and banana slices if desired for added color and freshness.

Notes

The dessert is best served chilled and can be made a day ahead to enhance flavors.
Use ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and maintain texture.
Freeze-dried strawberries add an intense fruit crunch and flavor to the topping but can be substituted with crushed freeze-dried raspberries if unavailable.
For a slightly different texture, try using crushed graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers.
Keep refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.