No-Bake Twinkie Pudding Cake

This No-Bake Twinkie Pudding Cake is an easy, delicious dessert that combines the nostalgic flavor of Hostess Twinkies with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and sweet crushed pineapple. Topped with fluffy Cool Whip, crunchy pecans, and vibrant maraschino cherries, this no-bake dessert recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. With no baking required, it’s a quick and crowd-pleasing option for summer desserts or holiday treats. Discover how to make this easy no-bake cake that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Ingredients

• 1 box Hostess Twinkies
• 4 bananas, peeled and sliced
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 box (3 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
• Maraschino cherries, dried on a paper towel
• Chopped pecans, for garnish

Instructions

1. Slice each Twinkie in half lengthwise and arrange them, cream side up, in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a layer.
2. Arrange the banana slices evenly over the Twinkie layer.
3. Spread the drained crushed pineapple on top of the bananas in an even layer.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until smooth and thickened.
5. Pour the prepared pudding over the pineapple layer, spreading it evenly.
6. Gently spread the Cool Whip over the pudding layer.
7. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top and decorate with Maraschino cherries.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.

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Tips

• Ensure the bananas are ripe but firm to avoid mushiness.
• For extra flavor, you can lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the cake.
• Drying the Maraschino cherries on a paper towel prevents any excess liquid from bleeding into the Cool Whip layer.

Variations and Substitutions

• Twinkies: Swap with angel food cake or ladyfingers for a lighter option.
• Bananas: Use sliced strawberries or a mix of berries instead of bananas.
• Cool Whip: Substitute with whipped cream if preferred, but make sure it’s stabilized if made from scratch.
• Pecans: Almonds or walnuts also make delicious alternatives.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! It can be prepared a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I use homemade pudding?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully set before layering it onto the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled, and for a festive touch, garnish each slice with an additional dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This No-Bake Twinkie Pudding Cake is a fun, retro-style dessert that combines layers of creamy vanilla pudding, sweet bananas, and tropical pineapple with the nostalgic taste of Twinkies. It’s quick to make, requires no baking, and is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks!