Name: Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (3.4 ounce) pkg. Instant Vanilla Pudding; 1 1/2 cups Cold Water; 1 (14-ounce) can Sweetened Condensed Milk; 3 cups Heavy Cream; 1 (11-ounce) box Nilla Wafers; 1 1/2 to 2 lbs. Strawberries; 2 Tablespoons Sugar (optional, for fresh strawberries); 2 Tablespoons Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 73 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for nostalgic desserts, you are going to love this Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe. This dessert manages to capture all the charm of the classic strawberry shortcake but with an indulgent twist that’s rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible. Layers of luscious vanilla pudding, whipped cream, buttery Nilla wafers, and juicy strawberries come together perfectly, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving friends or treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that is both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass cup filled with a layered dessert showing five main layers, starting from the bottom: a creamy pale yellow custard, a layer of bright red strawberries, another creamy pale yellow custard, a red strawberry sauce mixed with the custard, and topped with whole and halved red strawberries and small round beige biscuits. The glass cup sits on a round beige woven placemat over a white marbled surface. A wooden spoon is placed to the left side of the cup, and three whole strawberries and one halved strawberry rest around the placemat. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe plays a starring role. From creamy dairy to sweet, fresh fruit, each one adds an essential note to this dessert’s delightful harmony. You won’t need anything complicated, just simple, quality ingredients that create magic when combined.

Instant Vanilla Pudding (3.4 ounce package): This forms the creamy base that brings a smooth vanilla flavor with minimal effort.
Cold Water (1 1/2 cups): Needed to mix with the pudding for the perfect consistency.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (14-ounce can): Adds rich sweetness and luscious mouthfeel to the pudding layer.
Heavy Cream (3 cups): Whipped to stiff peaks, it offers lightness and volume to balance the dessert.
Nilla Wafers (11-ounce box): Crumbled and layered throughout for that classic shortcake crunch and buttery flavor.
Strawberries (1 1/2 to 2 pounds): Fresh and juicy, they bring bright color and a sweet-tart contrast.
Sugar (2 tablespoons): Optional but recommended to enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
Vanilla Extract (optional for roasting): Adds warmth and depth to strawberries if you decide to roast them.

How to Make Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding Mixture

Start by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk and cold water in a mixing bowl until they are fully combined. Then, add the instant vanilla pudding powder and mix vigorously for about two minutes until the mixture becomes completely smooth. Cover this bowl and refrigerate it for at least one hour so the pudding can thicken to the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream and Combine

Using a stand mixer or handheld beaters, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—that means it should hold its shape when you lift the beaters. Next, fold the chilled pudding mixture into the whipped cream slowly, adding it in scoops to maintain the light, fluffy texture. This fusion creates the dreamy pudding cream that is the heart of this recipe.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries

If you prefer fresh strawberries, simply hull and chop them into small, bite-size pieces. Toss them gently in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of sugar to bring out their natural juices and sweetness. For a deeper flavor, you can roast the strawberries as described below before adding them to your pudding layers.

Step 4: Assemble the Pudding Layers

Choose a beautiful trifle bowl or wide glass bowl to showcase the stunning layers—or if you want individual servings, use clear glasses or smaller dishes. Spread a generous layer of the pudding mixture at the bottom, then add a layer of Nilla wafers, followed by a layer of strawberries. Keep alternating these layers until you use up all your ingredients. Finish with a topping of whipped cream pudding and a crumble of Nilla wafers for that irresistible finishing touch.

Step 5: Chill to Perfection

Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours. This resting time allows the cookies to soften perfectly, soaking up the rich pudding and strawberry juices, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s truly unforgettable.

Step 6: Optional Roasted Strawberries

For a luscious twist, preheat your oven to 375°F. In a bowl, toss halved strawberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the berries soften and their juices become syrupy. Let these cool completely before folding them into your pudding for an extra layer of flavor complexity.

How to Serve Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe

A close-up of a layered dessert served in a white scalloped bowl placed on a round woven mat with a wooden texture underneath. The dessert has multiple layers mixed together, showing creamy pale yellow custard, red strawberry pieces, and beige cookie chunks creating a soft, textured look. There are fresh red strawberries with green tops around the bowl and one strawberry on a wooden spoon resting inside the bowl. Behind the bowl, a tall clear glass container with visible swirled layers of custard, sliced strawberries, and cookies stands against a soft blue background. The surface is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your pudding elevates its presentation and adds delightful texture contrasts. Fresh whole strawberries on top look gorgeous and reinforce that berry freshness. You can also finely crumble some extra Nilla wafers over the top to provide a delicate crunch and a hint of buttery goodness with every bite. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a final touch of sweetness and beauty.

Side Dishes

This pudding is rich and satisfying on its own, but if you want to serve it as part of a larger spread, consider pairing it with light, fresh options like a crisp green salad or a citrusy fruit salad. The acidity of these sides balances the dessert’s sweetness perfectly. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea also complements the creamy flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try layering your pudding in individual mason jars for charming, portion-controlled servings that are perfect for parties or picnics. You can also add some fresh mint leaves between the layers for a pop of green and a refreshing hint. For a festive occasion, drizzle a homemade strawberry sauce or a splash of balsamic glaze over the top just before serving to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of the Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe, keep them tightly covered in the refrigerator. Stored properly, the pudding will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Remember, the cookie layers will continue to soften, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later for optimal texture.

Freezing

This dessert doesn’t freeze well due to its delicate texture and whipped cream base. Freezing can cause the pudding to separate and the cookies to become soggy when thawed. For best results, enjoy this pudding fresh or within a few days of making it.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating isn’t recommended. The beauty lies in its cool, creamy texture and fresh strawberry flavors. Just pull it out of the fridge a few minutes before serving to let the flavors shine and the pudding soften slightly if chilled very cold.

FAQs

Can I use fresh homemade pudding instead of instant vanilla pudding?

Yes, you can substitute homemade vanilla pudding if you prefer. Just be sure it’s well chilled and set firmly so it combines nicely with the whipped cream and condenses milk for the right texture.

What if I am allergic to dairy? Can this be made dairy-free?

While traditional ingredients call for dairy, you could experiment with dairy-free whipped cream alternatives and pudding mixes that are vegan friendly. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might differ slightly, but it’s definitely possible to adapt the recipe.

Is it better to roast the strawberries or use them fresh?

Both options are delicious! Roasting strawberries brings out a deeper, caramelized sweetness and a more syrupy texture, while fresh strawberries add brightness and a juicy bite. Choose depending on your mood or the occasion.

How long does the pudding need to chill before serving?

Chilling the pudding for 4 to 6 hours is ideal. This resting time allows the Nilla wafers to soften just right and the flavors to meld. If you’re pressed for time, at least one hour will give you a decent set, but it won’t be quite as luscious.

Can I prepare this pudding in advance for a party?

Absolutely! Preparing the Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe a day ahead is perfect because it gives ample time for the layers to meld and the cookies to soften. Just be sure to keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Magnolia Bakery Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Recipe is truly a dessert that delights every sense, combining the best of classic flavors with the ease of a no-bake treat. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles, nostalgia, and compliments all around. So go ahead and try it—you’ll have a new favorite recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, special celebrations, or just a sweet moment to yourself. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy, strawberry-filled bite!