Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups
Table of Contents
There’s something truly magical about desserts that draw us back to simpler times, like warm summer afternoons spent in Grandma’s kitchen or family picnics under the big oak tree. Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups are one of those delightful treats that capture the heart and the taste buds with their nostalgic charm. This easy peasy recipe is a celebration of flavors and memories — bringing together the sweetness of strawberries, the creaminess of cheesecake pudding, and the comforting crunch of vanilla Oreos.
Imagine serving these charming cups at your next gathering and watching the smiles light up the room. They’re not just a dessert; they’re an experience, a moment to savor, and a memory to cherish. With just a few simple ingredients and a dash of love, you can create a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive. Here are four reasons why these pudding cups are bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire:
Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups are more than just a sweet treat — they are a testament to the power of simplicity and nostalgia. In a world that often feels rushed, taking the time to create something homemade is a comforting ritual. This recipe embodies the essence of Easy Peasy Recipes: easy to make, delightful to eat, and heartwarming to share. Whether it’s the star of a birthday party or a casual Sunday dessert, these cups promise to be a hit. Their luscious layers and vibrant colors make them as visually appealing as they are delicious, ensuring they’ll be the talk of any table.
These delightful cups are ideal for serving at a variety of events. Picture them as the centerpiece of a summer brunch, beautifully lined up on a dessert table, or as the perfect ending to a cozy dinner with friends. Their individual servings make them easy to handle, and they create a stunning visual when presented on a rustic wooden tray or a sleek, modern platter. Plus, the layers of color from the strawberries, pudding, and Oreo crumbs make them incredibly Instagram-worthy, so don’t forget to snap a photo before they disappear!
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
Simple Joys: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for those lazy weekends or spontaneous dessert cravings. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required!
Family-Friendly Fun: This is a fantastic recipe to make with kids. Let them help crush the Oreos or layer the ingredients. It’s a great way to create cherished kitchen memories together.
Versatile Delight: While strawberries are the star, you can easily swap in your favorite fruits, making it a versatile treat that suits any season or occasion.
Portable Pleasure: These pudding cups are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any on-the-go gathering. Just pop on the lids and take them wherever you please!
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To bring these Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups to life, you don’t need a chef’s arsenal — just a few trusty kitchen tools:
Food Processor: For crushing the Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries into a fine crumb. This tool saves time and ensures a consistent texture, but if you don’t have one, a large ziplock bag and a rolling pin will do the trick.
Mixing Bowl and Whisk: Essential for whipping up the pudding base. The whisk is crucial here for ensuring the pudding mix dissolves completely into the milk, avoiding any lumps.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key to achieving the perfect pudding consistency. Even small deviations in the amount of milk can affect the texture, so be precise!
Plastic Cups or Jars: For assembling and serving these delightful treats. Consider using clear cups to show off the beautiful layers, and if you’re going for an eco-friendly option, reusable jars are a great choice.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
INGREDIENTS
- 20 Golden Vanilla Oreos
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 2 (3.4 oz) packages Instant Jell-o Cheesecake Pudding
- 4 cups whole milk cold
- 1 ½ cups strawberries diced
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 8-10 (4-ounce) plastic cups or jars
INSTRUCTIONS
Crush the Oreos and Strawberries: Begin by pulsing the Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until they form a fine crumb. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, place them in a large ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin. This step is great for kids to help with, as it’s both fun and a little therapeutic!
Prepare the Pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the cheesecake pudding mix and cold whole milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. This should take about 2 minutes. Gently fold in the diced strawberries, distributing them evenly throughout the pudding.
Assemble the Layers: Place a spoonful of the Oreo strawberry crumbs at the bottom of each cup, creating the first layer. Add a layer of the pudding mixture, ensuring it covers the crumbs completely. Top with more crumbs and follow with another layer of pudding. Repeat until all cups are filled. The layering process is where creativity can shine — aim for neat, even layers for the best presentation.
Chill and Serve: Place the cups in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. Chilling helps the layers set and enhances the overall texture. Right before serving, top each cup with a tablespoon of softened cool whip. Garnish with additional Oreo strawberry crumbs and a strawberry slice, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 0 minutes • Total Time: 15 minutes • Calories: 280 • Servings: 8-10
Note: For a fun twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the pudding for extra flavor.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which are great for boosting your immune system and adding a fresh, fruity flavor to the dish. The whole milk provides a creamy texture and is a good source of calcium, essential for healthy bones. Meanwhile, using Golden Vanilla Oreos adds a lovely crunch and vanilla essence, complementing the tangy cheesecake pudding perfectly.
Freeze-dried strawberries are a fantastic addition, providing concentrated strawberry flavor without the added moisture that fresh strawberries bring. This helps maintain the desired texture of the dessert. Additionally, the whipped cream adds a light, airy finish, balancing the richness of the pudding and the crunch of the Oreos.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These pudding cups are a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a light summer salad for a refreshing meal or as a sweet finish to a hearty family barbecue. They also make a delightful accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee or tea during a cozy afternoon break. For a festive touch, consider serving them with a side of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh berry compote.
Additionally, these cups can be part of a dessert trio or buffet. Pair them with mini lemon tarts or chocolate mousse for a delightful array of flavors and textures. Their bright, fruity profile complements citrus and chocolate desserts beautifully, making them a versatile choice for any spread.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), these pudding cups store well in the refrigerator. Simply cover them with plastic wrap or place the lids on the jars and enjoy within 3 days for the best taste. For an easy peasy breakfast treat, consider adding a layer of granola on top for a sweet morning indulgence. Alternatively, mix any remaining pudding with yogurt for a quick and tasty snack.
For those who love a little variety, consider using the leftover ingredients creatively. The Oreo strawberry crumbs can be used as a topping for ice cream, or mixed into a smoothie bowl for added texture. The pudding itself can be repurposed into a filling for crepes or as a dip for fresh fruit slices.
Every time I make these Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups, I’m reminded of the joy of simple, homemade treats. They are a delicious way to bring a bit of comfort and sweetness to your day, whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and try this easy peasy recipe — it’s bound to become a beloved addition to your dessert collection.
Pin this Easy Peasy recipe!
Love this recipe? Pin the image below to your favorite Pinterest boards and bring a little Easy Peasy comfort to your kitchen whenever you need it.
Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Cups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pulse Oreos and dehydrated strawberries in a food processor until finely crushed. Alternatively, place in a large ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin until fine crumbs.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cheesecake pudding and milk. Whisk until smooth. Fold in diced strawberries. Set aside to set for 5 minutes.
- Place a spoonful of oreo strawberry crumbs at the bottom of each cup. Add a layer of pudding, then top with more crumbs followed by another layer of pudding. Chill until ready to serve.
- Right before serving, top with a tablespoon of softened cool whip. Garnish with oreo strawberry crumbs and top with a strawberry slice, if desired.
