Name: No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 box vanilla instant pudding ((3.4 oz)); 1.5 cups nonfat milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 25 pieces Golden Oreos ((or another vanilla flavored cookie or graham cracker)); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ((melted)); 12 ounces Cool Whip topping; 1 pound fresh strawberries ((hulled and sliced))

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If you’re searching for a creamy, dreamy dessert that doesn’t require an ounce of baking, then this No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert is about to be your new favorite treat! Bursting with sweet strawberries, luscious whipped topping, and the buttery crunch of Golden Oreos, this recipe delivers pure nostalgia with every bite. Did you know strawberry shortcake has origins tracing back to the mid-1800s, but the “no bake” twist makes it a modern classic? I remember the first time my family tasted this – it disappeared in record time! Not only does it whip up in under 30 minutes, but it’s also perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or just an ordinary weekday dessert. If you love my Easy No Bake Lemon Icebox Cake, you’ll be blown away by how fuss-free and delicious this strawberry sensation is. Gather your favorite people, and let’s bring a little sweetness to your week with this irresistible no bake strawberry shortcake dessert!

What is No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert?

Ever wonder what happens when someone decides to skip the oven but still craves the magic of strawberry shortcake? Meet the No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert! It’s got all the flavors of a classic shortcake—rich vanilla, fluffy whipped topping, juicy strawberries—but without touching a single baking pan. Why is it called “no bake”? Because even the laziest chef can whip this up with minimal effort—talk about saving time and saving tempers! As my grandma used to joke, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dessert practically paves the road. Ready for some no-oven magic? Grab your spoons and give this recipe a try!

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert

This No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert is the ultimate quick-fix for dessert lovers with zero patience for baking. The main highlight? Its rich, creamy layers of whipped topping and silky vanilla pudding set atop a golden Oreo crust that gives you that classic shortcake taste without the fuss. Making it at home means you’ll skip the higher costs of bakery-bought treats and cut down on unnecessary additives—plus, you can customize the toppings to your own fruity fantasies. The simplicity also means minimal cleanup. Craving variety? Try my No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars for a different twist! Trust me, this strawberry stunner will wow kids and adults alike, so dive into your kitchen and give it a whirl tonight.

How to Make

Quick Overview

No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever baked! With just 25 minutes of prep and no oven time, this delightful dish marries sweet, juicy strawberries with a creamy vanilla pudding and cool whipped topping, all layered over a buttery cookie crust. The hardest part? Waiting for the flavors to meld in the fridge! Its foolproof assembly and irresistible charm make it a guaranteed crowd favorite.

Ingredients

1 (3.4 oz) box vanilla instant pudding
1 1/2 cups nonfat milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
25 Golden Oreos (or another vanilla flavored cookie or graham cracker)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
12 ounces Cool Whip topping
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Place the Golden Oreos in a food processor and pulse until you have fine crumbs. Transfer to a bowl and mix with the melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish to create the crust.

Step 2: Make the Pudding Layer
In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding mix, nonfat milk, and vanilla extract until thickened (about 2 minutes). Gently fold in half of the Cool Whip topping until smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Spread the pudding and Cool Whip mixture over the prepared crust. Layer the sliced strawberries evenly over the pudding layer.

Step 4: Add the Final Layer
Spread the remaining Cool Whip evenly over the strawberries.

Step 5: Chill
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results) to allow the dessert to set and the flavors to combine.

Step 6: Serve
When ready to serve, garnish with additional cookie crumbs or sliced strawberries if desired. Slice into squares and enjoy!

What to Serve No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert With

Pair this luscious strawberry dessert with light, fruity drinks like homemade lemonade, iced tea, or a sparkling berry punch for extra freshness. It goes great alongside a bowl of mixed berries or a platter of dainty tea sandwiches for a spring brunch or afternoon gathering. If serving at a party, consider offering mini cheesecakes or chocolate-dipped strawberries for a decadent dessert table.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient Swaps: No Golden Oreos? Graham crackers or vanilla wafers work beautifully. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy whipped topping and milk substitutes.
Strawberry Freshness: Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Drizzle a little sugar over them if they need a flavor boost.
Perfect Texture: Firmly press the crust and chill for several hours to ensure the layers stay distinct when sliced.
Avoid Soggy Crusts: Keep the strawberry layer dry by gently patting the slices before adding them.
Make Ahead: This dessert tastes even better the next day, so prep it the night before for parties!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers of No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookies will soften but keep a subtle crunch. Freezing isn’t suggested, as the whipped topping can separate and the strawberries may get mushy upon thawing. If you must freeze, wrap tightly and defrost in the fridge; consume within one month. Since this dessert is enjoyed chilled, simply serve straight from the fridge—no reheating necessary!

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before layering to prevent watery dessert.

Can I substitute the pudding flavor?
Absolutely! Cheesecake or vanilla bean pudding makes wonderful alternatives. Feel free to get creative.

Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free vanilla cookies or graham crackers for the crust to accommodate dietary needs.

Do I have to use Cool Whip, or can I make my own whipped cream?
Homemade whipped cream works beautifully—just make sure to whip it stiff enough for layering.

How far ahead can I make this dessert?
Prepare up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors blend beautifully the longer it chills!

Conclusion

No Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert is the answer to your dessert dreams when you want something sweet, impressive, and oven-free. Its creamy layers, vibrant berries, and buttery crust are a surefire way to delight guests or treat your family. With a quick and easy assembly, budget-friendly ingredients, and make-ahead convenience, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for any time of year. Pair it with your favorite drinks, customize the toppings, and watch the smiles appear around the table. Give this no-bake wonder a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved favorite. Happy (no) baking!