Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding
A delightful dessert combining creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and strawberries, topped with a crunchy layer that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pudding Base
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit Layers
- 4-5 pieces ripe bananas, sliced Use ripe bananas for best flavor.
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced Fresh strawberries preferred, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained.
Crunch Topping
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies (or shortbread cookies) Can substitute with shortbread cookies.
- 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed into crumbs
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preparation of Pudding Base
- In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth.
Whipping Cream
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture.
- Chill for 30 minutes.
Prepare Strawberry Crunch Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and crushed vanilla wafers.
- Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is evenly coated and crumbly.
- Set aside.
Assemble the Dessert
- In a large trifle dish, rectangular pan, or individual serving cups, start with a layer of cookies on the bottom.
- Spread a layer of pudding over the cookies, followed by an even layer of sliced bananas and strawberries.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, ending with a pudding layer on top.
Add the Crunch Topping
- Sprinkle the prepared strawberry crunch topping generously over the top layer of pudding.
Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the fruity, creamy, and crunchy goodness!
Notes
You can serve Strawberry Crunch Banana Pudding in a large trifle dish or individual cups. Pair with whipped cream or fresh strawberries on top. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.