One summer afternoon, with fresh strawberries in hand and a craving for something sweet, I decided to whip up a delightful dessert: Strawberry Shortcake Pudding.
It was a hit with my kids and husband—they devoured it in no time! This dessert perfectly blends layers of creamy pudding, buttery shortcake, and juicy strawberries.
It’s quick, simple, and irresistibly delicious. Trust me, you’ll want to try this recipe and watch it become a household favorite.
What Makes My Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe Unique?
This Strawberry Shortcake Pudding recipe is my spin on the classic treat. It features layers of rich vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and buttery shortcake crumbles for a combination of textures and flavors.
What sets it apart is the homemade shortcake and a touch of condensed milk for added creaminess. This twist makes it more decadent than traditional recipes while remaining incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients List for Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 packet (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shortcake crumbs or crushed butter cookies
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
- Pudding Mix: You can use vanilla or white chocolate pudding mix depending on your taste.
- Shortcake Alternative: If shortcake isn’t available, crushed graham crackers or pound cake cubes work well.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute whole milk with almond milk and use dairy-free whipped topping instead of cream.
- Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk. Whisk for 2 minutes until thickened. Stir in the vanilla extract and set aside.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk to add a velvety sweetness to the whipped cream.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Begin by placing a layer of crushed shortcake crumbs at the bottom of a dessert cup or trifle dish. Add a layer of sliced strawberries, followed by a generous layer of pudding.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
Continue layering until you fill the dish, finishing with a topping of whipped cream and a few extra strawberry slices for decoration.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Strawberry Shortcake Pudding
- Using Unripe Strawberries: Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for maximum flavor.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Letting the dessert rest in the fridge helps enhance the taste and texture.
- Overmixing Whipped Cream: Stop beating as soon as soft peaks form to avoid a grainy texture.
Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Serving and Presentation Tips
- Use clear dessert cups or mason jars to showcase the beautiful layers.
- Add a drizzle of strawberry syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.
- Top each serving with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Pudding
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a festive twist, serve it alongside other strawberry shortcake treats like strawberry shortcake dessert cups or a traditional shortcake trifle.
Extra Recipe Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Pudding
- Make Ahead: Prepare this dessert up to a day in advance for convenience.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Customization: Swap out strawberries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mix?
A: Absolutely! Homemade pudding will elevate the flavor, though it requires extra time.
Q: Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Pudding?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture may become watery when thawed.
Q: Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
A: Yes, but homemade whipped cream adds a fresher taste and creamier texture.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Shortcake Pudding is a delightful twist on a beloved classic that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a show-stopping presentation. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating your family, this dessert is sure to impress. Give it a try and turn an ordinary day into something special!
