- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding and whole milk. Allow to set for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Slice the Twinkies in half lengthwise.
- In a 9×13-inch dish, layer half of the Twinkie halves at the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half of the prepared pudding evenly over the Twinkies.
- Layer half of the sliced strawberries on top of the pudding.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining Twinkies, pudding, and strawberries.
- Top the final layer with whipped topping, spreading evenly to cover the cake.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
Serving and Storage:
Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This cake is best enjoyed the same day or the next day to keep the Twinkies from becoming too soggy.
Tips:
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor and best texture.
- For added flair, sprinkle chocolate shavings or crushed nuts on top of the whipped topping.
- If Twinkies are slightly stale, soaking them lightly in milk or a flavored syrup can make them more moist.
- Chill for longer to allow the pudding to firm up for easier slicing.
- You can substitute frozen strawberries (thawed) if fresh strawberries aren’t available.
Conclusion:
No-Bake Twinkie Cake is a simple, quick, and fun dessert that combines creamy pudding, sweet strawberries, and soft Twinkies. Perfect for parties or an easy weekend treat, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
FAQ:
Can I use a different flavor of pudding?
Yes, chocolate or strawberry pudding can be substituted for a different twist.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the cake and refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, blueberries, raspberries, or peaches work well in place of strawberries.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free pudding mix, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free whipped topping for a vegan or dairy-free version.
Can I freeze this cake?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of Twinkies and whipped topping may change. It’s best served fresh.