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This quick and fuss-free no-oven Twinkie pudding treat is my go-to when I’ve gotta whip up something sweet in a hurry. If you want to impress your crew—planned or surprise company—this super-easy blast from the past never lets me down. Tastes awesome and it’s a cinch to make.
We pull out this cake for everything from family movie marathons to birthday parties. There’s never a crumb left because everybody grabs a piece as soon as it’s on the table.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Cherry pie filling: Brings a pop of fruity goodness that keeps things from being too sweet. Look for plenty of cherries for some bite.
- Whipped topping: Makes it light and creamy. Stick to the plain kind for best results.
- Milk: Use cold milk for a lump-free pudding layer. Makes everything smooth.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Turns into a soft, creamy layer that holds it all together. Grab a brand you trust so it comes out just right.
- Twinkies: Soft, golden treats that line the bottom. Use fresh ones so they bounce back to the touch.
Easy Steps
- Chill:
- Pop the whole thing in the fridge for at least four hours—overnight is even better. It’ll set up nicely and the flavors mix together.
- Top with Cherries:
- Spread that cherry pie filling all across the top. Make sure every piece gets a bit of cherry action.
- Add Whipped Topping:
- Spoon on the whipped topping and gently smooth it over. Take it easy so you keep those nice layers.
- Add Pudding Layer:
- Pour your thick pudding all over those Twinkies. Slide a spatula around so it gets to every corner.
- Mix the Pudding:
- Grab a bowl and whisk instant pudding with milk until it’s totally smooth. Let it hang out for a few minutes to thicken up.
- Prepare the Base:
- Slice Twinkies lengthwise and lay them cream side up across the base of your pan. Make sure you've got every spot covered with cake.
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That top layer with the cherries is my favorite part. It instantly reminds me of being a little kid. My grandma always piled on extra cherries for me because she knew that’s what I loved most. Made it feel extra special every time.
How to Store It
Snug up the pan with some plastic wrap or stick on a tight lid. Tuck it in the fridge—good for about three days. Skip the freezer though; whipped topping and pudding won’t hold up and might break apart.
Swap it Up
Try blueberry or strawberry topping if you’re into those flavors instead of cherry. Want a choco treat? Use chocolate pudding and chocolate snack cakes instead of Twinkies. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, go with reduced fat whipped topping.
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Fun Ways to Serve
Let it chill in the fridge until serving time. Dress it up with a handful of chopped nuts or pour over a little chocolate syrup. Warm night? Goes awesome with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Fun Food History
Home cooks got creative in the late 1900s and started putting snack cakes in layered desserts to cut corners and keep things easy. Twinkie desserts turn up at family parties everywhere—people love the playful look and comfort vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Sure! Swap in chocolate, cheesecake, or banana pudding to change things up from the usual vanilla.
- → How long does the dessert need to chill?
Stick it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or leave it overnight so it firms up nicely before you eat it.
- → Can I substitute homemade whipped cream?
Of course! Homemade whipped cream is lighter and not as sweet, so use that if you want.
- → Which fruit toppings pair well besides cherry?
Try blueberry pie filling, strawberries, or any mix of berries you like. All work great on top.
- → Is it possible to prepare individual servings?
Yep! Layer all the parts in jars or little glasses for grab-and-go single servings.
- → How long will leftovers keep?
Cover and keep in the fridge—good for 2 or 3 days, but best eaten not too long after making it.