The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Inaya, and this recipe takes me straight back to warm summer afternoons in Crete. My grandmother would fill our kitchen with the scent of freshly baked shortcake biscuits and ripe strawberries from her garden. She always said, “Fresh fruit and love make everything taste better.”
That memory inspired these Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Jars a modern twist on a traditional favorite. They’re light, creamy, and perfectly portioned for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating with family, or just craving something sweet, these jars are pure joy in dessert form.
I love how each layer buttery shortcake crumbs, velvety vanilla pudding, and juicy strawberries feels like a hug in every spoonful. And the best part? You can make them ahead, so they’re perfect for busy days or special occasions.
These Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Jars are not only adorable but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of layering magic, you’ll have a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes.
Ingredients
For the Shortcake Layer:
- 2 cups shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers, crushed
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp sugar
For the Pudding Layer:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Toppings:
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
- Extra strawberry slices for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortcake Crumbs
In a bowl, mix the crushed shortbread cookies with melted butter and sugar until well combined. The texture should feel like damp sand. Spread the mixture on a baking tray and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Compote
In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes until the strawberries release their juices and slightly thicken. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Vanilla Pudding
In a large bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix with milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding for a light, creamy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Jars
In small glass jars or cups, start with a layer of shortcake crumbs, followed by vanilla pudding, then a spoonful of strawberry compote. Repeat until the jars are filled, finishing with pudding and a few fresh strawberries on top.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the jars for at least 1 hour before serving. Top with whipped cream, a strawberry slice, and a mint leaf for freshness. Serve cold and enjoy every spoonful!
Serving & Tips
These Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Jars are best enjoyed cold, especially on warm afternoons. Pair them with iced coffee or mint tea for a refreshing treat.
If you’re preparing for guests, make them the night before and keep them refrigerated. They hold up beautifully for 24 hours, and the flavors meld even better.
You can also customize the recipe by using blueberries or peaches instead of strawberries, or add a drizzle of white chocolate for extra decadence.
Print
Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Jars – A Sweet, Creamy Delight You’ll Love
These Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Jars are a light, creamy, and fruity dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Layers of buttery shortcake crumbs, smooth vanilla pudding, and juicy strawberries come together in a jar-sized treat that’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and irresistibly delightful!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 jars
Ingredients
Shortcake Layer:
2 cups shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers, crushed
3 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp sugar
Pudding Layer:
2 cups whole milk
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberry Layer:
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
Toppings:
Whipped cream
Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Extra strawberry slices for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Shortcake Crumbs
Mix crushed shortbread cookies with melted butter and sugar. Spread on a tray and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden. Cool completely.Make the Strawberry Compote
In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until juicy and thickened. Let cool.Prepare the Vanilla Pudding
Whisk pudding mix with milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract and fold it into the pudding.Assemble the Jars
In glass jars, layer shortcake crumbs, pudding, and strawberries. Repeat and finish with pudding and fresh strawberries on top.Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Top with whipped cream, mint, and a strawberry slice. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
These jars keep well in the fridge for up to 24 hours perfect for make-ahead desserts.
Substitute blueberries or peaches for a fun flavor twist.
Add a drizzle of white chocolate for extra indulgence.
For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of pudding.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake / Chill
- Cuisine: Greek-inspired / Modern twist
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 295 kcal
- Sugar: 24 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Conclusion
Every spoonful of these Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Jars feels like sunshine in a jar creamy pudding, buttery crumbs, and fresh strawberries that taste like summer memories.
When I make these, I always think of my grandmother’s joyful laughter as we cooked together in Crete. Now, I hope this recipe brings that same joy to your kitchen whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or simply treating yourself.
Because food isn’t just about taste it’s about love, stories, and moments we cherish. 💛
Short Version
Hi, I’m Inaya from Crete! These Strawberry Shortcake Pudding Jars remind me of summer days in my grandmother’s kitchen. They’re layered with buttery shortcake crumbs, creamy vanilla pudding, and juicy strawberries simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing. You can make them ahead and serve cold for a refreshing treat. Each jar feels like sunshine and love in every bite. Whether it’s a cozy dessert night or a festive gathering, this recipe brings sweetness and warmth to any moment. Let’s make memories, one pudding jar at a time! 🍓💛