Description

This refreshing Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding is a delightful layered dessert combining creamy banana-flavored pudding with fresh strawberries and bananas, topped with a crunchy mixture of crushed vanilla wafers and freeze-dried strawberries. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing treat, it requires no baking and is ready to enjoy after chilling.

Ingredients

Scale

Pudding Mixture

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 Garnishes

Extra fresh strawberries
Extra banana slices

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Instructions

Mix Pudding: Whisk the instant banana pudding mix and cold milk together in a mixing bowl for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping and vanilla extract into the pudding mixture until fully combined and creamy.
Prepare Crunch Topping: In a separate bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter. Stir well to coat evenly, forming the crunchy topping.
Layer Dessert: In a 9×9-inch dish or individual serving cups, layer half of the banana pudding mixture, then add a layer of sliced bananas and sliced fresh strawberries on top.
Add Crunch: Sprinkle half of the prepared strawberry crunch topping evenly over the fruit layer.
Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining pudding, fruit slices, and strawberry crunch topping.
Chill: Cover the dish or cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set and flavors to meld.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with extra fresh strawberry slices and banana slices for a vibrant finish.

Notes

Ensure the whipped topping is completely thawed for easier folding into the pudding.
Freeze-dried strawberries add a unique crunch and intensified strawberry flavor to the topping.
This dessert can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to serve.
For added texture, consider lightly toasting the crushed vanilla wafers before mixing with butter.
Use ripe but firm bananas to avoid mushiness in layers.