No-Bake Strawberry Twinkie Dessert – An Easy Layered Crowd-Pleaser
If you’re looking for a quick, no-bake dessert that feels nostalgic, impressive, and downright irresistible, this No-Bake Strawberry Twinkie Dessert is about to become your new go-to. With soft golden Twinkies, creamy vanilla pudding, fresh strawberries, and fluffy whipped topping layered into one chilled masterpiece, this dessert delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Created by Jason Griffith for Chef Maniac, this recipe is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, summer cookouts, or anytime you want something sweet without turning on the oven.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about simple ingredients coming together to create something spectacular. I love this recipe because:
- It’s completely no-bake
- It takes just 15 minutes of prep
- It uses easy, store-bought shortcuts
- It looks beautiful when sliced
- It tastes like strawberry shortcake meets icebox cake
If you love chilled layered desserts like This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert or creamy classics like This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack, you’re going to fall hard for this one too.
Ingredients
- 9 Twinkies, unwrapped
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 16 oz fresh strawberries (divided)
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Milk: Whole milk makes the pudding extra creamy, but 2% works fine.
- Whipped topping: You can reduce to 4–6 ounces if you prefer a lighter finish.
- Fresh berries: Always pat strawberries dry if they’re extra juicy.
- Flavor twist: Try banana pudding instead of vanilla for a fun variation.
- Serving a crowd? Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Layer the Base
Arrange the unwrapped Twinkies snugly in a single layer in an 8×8 baking dish, covering the bottom completely.
2. Make the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix and milk for about 3 minutes until thick and creamy.
3. Spread the Creamy Layer
Pour and spread the pudding evenly over the Twinkies, making sure every piece is fully covered.
4. Prep the Strawberries
Dice 3–4 strawberries (about ⅓–½ cup) and set aside. Slice the remaining strawberries into ¼-inch slices.
5. Add the Fruit Layer
Arrange the sliced strawberries in a single, even layer over the pudding. Slightly overlap them for full coverage.
6. Top with Whipped Cream
Gently spread the whipped topping over the strawberries using a spatula, smoothing into an even layer.
7. Finish with Fresh Berries
Sprinkle the reserved diced strawberries over the top for a fresh, colorful finish.
8. Chill to Set
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until the pudding firms up and the layers hold together beautifully when sliced.
Prep & Chill Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1–2 hours
- Servings: 9 squares
Tips for Perfect Layers
- Pat strawberries dry to prevent excess moisture.
- Let the pudding thicken fully before spreading.
- Use a clean spatula to smooth the whipped topping.
- Chill at least 1 hour for clean slices.
- For extra stability, chill overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dessert shines at:
- Summer BBQs
- Birthday parties
- Baby showers
- Potlucks
- Holiday gatherings
Pair it with something refreshing like This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days or go all-in on dessert with These Caramel Apple Nachos Are My Favorite Quick Fall Dessert Trick.
If you’re planning a full dinner menu, something savory like These Chicken Enchiladas Are My Go-To for Cozy Crowd-Pleasing Dinners balances the sweetness perfectly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 32g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 280mg
Note: Values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands used.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal texture.
- Do not freeze — strawberries release too much moisture when thawed.
- Keep tightly covered to prevent the whipped topping from absorbing fridge odors.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy easy, crowd-friendly desserts, don’t miss:
- This Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Is My Favorite No-Bake Summer Dessert
- This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack
- These Caramel Apple Nachos Are My Favorite Quick Fall Dessert Trick
They’re simple, shareable, and always a hit.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Strawberry Twinkie Dessert proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients to create something memorable. With soft cake, silky pudding, fresh berries, and creamy topping in every bite, it’s comfort food dressed up for a party.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share it with a friend, and follow along on Chef Maniac for more easy, crave-worthy recipes from my kitchen to yours.
Happy layering! 🍓✨
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