Delectable Strawberry Saltine Layered Dessert
Indulge in this delightful Delectable Strawberry Saltine Layered Dessert, perfect for any occasion. This fast and surprisingly sophisticated treat boasts layers of creamy vanilla pudding and luscious strawberries, all hugged by a crispy layer of saltine crackers. The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a satisfying experience that your guests will find irresistible. Ideal for summer gatherings or a casual weeknight dessert, this easy-to-make dish takes only a few minutes of prep time, but be sure to allow for a chilling period to meld the flavors for an exquisite finish. Whether you're entertaining friends or treating your family, this dessert is sure to impress.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
milk
2 cups (cold)
instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (3.5 ounce) package
Cool Whip
1 (8 ounce) carton (thawed)
saltine crackers
36
fresh strawberries
1 pint (cleaned and sliced)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk (skim or low-fat is fine). Beat on low speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
2
Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until fully incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy filling.
3
Begin assembling your dessert by placing 12 saltine crackers in the bottom of an 8-inch square dish, breaking them if necessary to fit and create an even layer.
4
Spread 1/3 of the pudding mixture over the crackers, smoothing it out with a spatula.
5
Repeat the layering process two more times: add another layer of 12 crackers, followed by another 1/3 of the pudding, and finish with a final layer of crackers topped with the remaining pudding.
6
Cover the dish securely with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
7
Just before serving, wash and slice the fresh strawberries, then arrange them on top of the dessert for a beautiful presentation.
8
Note: This dessert is a versatile canvas. Feel free to experiment with seasonal fruits and different pudding flavors, while keeping in mind that lighter colors work best to disguise the saltines.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Delectable Strawberry Saltine Layered Dessert?
It is a sophisticated no-bake treat featuring layers of vanilla pudding, saltine crackers, and fresh strawberries.
How many saltine crackers do I need for this recipe?
You will need a total of 36 saltine crackers to complete the three layers.
What size dish should I use for assembly?
An 8-inch square dish is recommended for assembling the layers.
Can I use low-fat milk for the pudding?
Yes, the recipe specifies that skim or low-fat milk is perfectly fine to use.
How long should I beat the pudding mixture?
Beat the instant pudding mix and cold milk on low speed for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
What is the role of Cool Whip in this dessert?
Thawed Cool Whip is folded into the pudding to create a smooth, creamy filling for the layers.
How many layers of crackers are in the dessert?
There are three layers of crackers, each consisting of 12 saltines.
How much pudding goes on each cracker layer?
You should spread 1/3 of the pudding mixture over each layer of crackers.
How long does the dessert need to refrigerate?
The dessert should be refrigerated for at least 4 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
When should I add the fresh strawberries?
Arrange the sliced strawberries on top just before serving for the best presentation.
How many strawberries are required?
The recipe calls for 1 pint of fresh strawberries.
Do I need to bake any part of this dessert?
No, this is a no-bake recipe that only requires refrigeration.
Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruits?
Yes, the dessert is versatile and works well with various seasonal fruits.
Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Yes, you can experiment with different pudding flavors, though lighter colors help hide the saltine crackers better.
Should the milk be cold?
Yes, using cold milk is essential for the instant pudding to set properly.
What should I do if the crackers don't fit the dish?
You can break the crackers as necessary to ensure they create an even layer in your dish.
What is the texture of the finished dessert?
It features creamy pudding and soft-yet-structured saltine layers topped with fresh fruit.
Is this dessert good for parties?
Yes, its sophisticated appearance and sweet-salty flavor make it an irresistible party treat.
Should I cover the dish in the refrigerator?
Yes, secure the dish with plastic wrap or a lid while it chills.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: milk, pudding mix, Cool Whip, saltine crackers, and strawberries.
What type of pudding mix is used?
One 3.5 ounce package of instant vanilla pudding mix is required.
Does the Cool Whip need to be frozen?
No, the 8-ounce carton of Cool Whip should be thawed before folding it into the pudding.
Is this recipe fast to prepare?
The prep time takes only a few minutes, though it does require a 4-hour chilling period.
Why are lighter pudding colors recommended?
Lighter colors help to visually disguise the saltine crackers within the layers.
What tool should I use to spread the pudding?
A spatula is the best tool for smoothing the pudding mixture over the crackers.
Is the saltine layer salty?
The saltine crackers provide a subtle salty contrast that complements the sweet pudding and strawberries.
Is this dessert suitable for summer?
Yes, it is described as an ideal treat for summer gatherings or casual weeknight desserts.
Can I use a larger dish than 8 inches?
You can, but you may need more crackers and the layers will be thinner.
How do I prepare the strawberries?
The strawberries should be cleaned and sliced before being arranged on top.
Can I make this dessert a day in advance?
Yes, as long as it is refrigerated, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld even more.