Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding Recipe

If you’re looking for pure dessert joy, look no further than Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding. This creamy, dreamy, no-bake treat is what happens when your favorite banana pudding meets that sweet red strawberry crunch you can’t resist. It’s a playful medley of silky pudding, fresh berries, banana slices, and a whimsical Golden Oreo strawberry topping that makes each spoonful feel like a little celebration. Everything comes together with minimal prep, but the result certainly tastes like you fussed—this is the kind of dish that disappears quickly at potlucks and gets you recipe requests at family dinners.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Main Pudding:

  • 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant banana pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping (thawed)
  • 1 cup sliced bananas
  • 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
  • 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers

  Strawberry Crunch Topping:

  • 1 cup Golden Oreos (crushed)
  • 2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin powder
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

How to Make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Pudding Base

Begin by whisking together your instant banana pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl. Whisk for about 2 minutes—it’ll seem loose at first, but watch it transform into a luxuriously thick, fragrant base. This is where those classic no-bake dessert vibes kick in. Once it’s thick, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, turning everything light, pale, and fluffy. No over-mixing here—you want to keep all that airiness intact!

Step 2: Assemble the Fruit and Cookie Layers

Grab your favorite 9×9-inch dish or a glass trifle bowl for extra presentation points. Start by spreading half the pudding mixture on the bottom. Next, scatter on half of the sliced bananas, then half of the chopped strawberries, sprinkling them so each bite gets a little of everything. Follow this with half the crushed vanilla wafers—let them nestle right into the cream. Repeat for a second layer, using up all your ingredients and building those classic pudding layers everyone anticipates.

Step 3: Create the Strawberry Crunch Topping

For the ultimate Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding, don’t skip this fun part! In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Golden Oreos, strawberry gelatin powder, and melted butter. Stir everything until the crumbs are evenly tinted and lightly damp—they should look like colorful, chunky sand. Shower this gorgeously sweet strawberry crunch topping over the pudding, so every spoonful ends with a big, bold crunch.

Step 4: Chill for the Perfect Texture

Cover your dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. The chill time is non-negotiable—it gives all the layers a chance to set, the wafers to soften (just right!), and the flavors to meld into that signature Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding harmony. If you’re able to wait even longer, the results get even dreamier.

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding

Garnishes

Right before serving, bring your creation to life with simple yet striking garnishes. Try an extra handful of sliced strawberries, a few banana coins, or even a sprinkle of additional cookie crumbs. Fresh mint leaves tucked on top add a lovely pop of green that hints at summery freshness.

Side Dishes

This dessert is fabulous all by itself, but it also shines as part of a dessert buffet. Pair it with light lemon bars, a side of cold brew coffee, or fruity spritzers—the tang and fizz work beautifully with the rich, creamy pudding. If you’re serving it after a big Southern meal, keep sides light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic dish! Scoop Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding into individual mason jars for picture-perfect picnics, layer it in clear cups for a party, or build mini trifles for a grab-and-go treat. For an extra celebratory touch, try topping with a swirl of whipped cream and a whole strawberry on each serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding stays fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to 2 days—after that, the fruit and cookies may start to lose their best texture.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze this dessert, the texture of the bananas and the whipped topping can become a bit watery and icy when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or well-chilled but avoid freezing if you want to preserve that signature lusciousness.

Reheating

This pudding is meant to be served cold or at cool room temperature. No reheating required—in fact, a good chill makes the flavor pop, and the strawberry crunch stay extra crisp and satisfying.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding a day ahead?

Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes even better after several hours in the fridge, making it the perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings or busy weeknights. Just add the topping right before serving for maximum crunch.

What can I use instead of Golden Oreos in the crunch?

If you don’t have Golden Oreos, try using vanilla sandwich cookies, shortbread cookies, or even graham crackers for a slightly different but still delicious strawberry crunch effect.

How do I keep my bananas from turning brown?

Slice the bananas just before you layer them in the pudding, and make sure they’re covered by either pudding or whipped topping—this helps keep them from oxidizing and turning brown.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes! Homemade whipped cream (beat heavy cream with a little sugar until stiff peaks form) works beautifully if you prefer a fresher, richer taste.

Can I make Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding dairy-free?

Swap in a plant-based milk for the pudding, use coconut whipped topping, and check that your cookies are dairy-free—you’ll still end up with a sumptuous, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Final Thoughts

Few desserts bring the same instant smiles as Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding. Its layers, color, and texture make it a showstopper, but what really matters is the joy it brings to your table. I can’t wait for you to share it with friends and loved ones—so go ahead, grab those spoons, and make some memories over this delightful, nostalgic treat!

Print