This Crunch Dessert Salad is a sweet, creamy, and crunchy treat that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings! Made with whipped topping, pudding, fruit, and a crunchy mix of nuts, cereal, or pretzels, this dessert is deliciously balanced between smooth and crispy textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & crunchy – A perfect mix of smooth pudding and crispy toppings.
- Quick & easy – Ready in 10 minutes!
- Customizable – Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or crunchy mix-ins.
- Perfect for any occasion – Great for potlucks, BBQs, and parties.
- Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Creamy Base:
- Instant vanilla or butterscotch pudding mix
- Milk (for pudding)
- Cool Whip (whipped topping)
- Mini marshmallows
For the Crunchy Mix-Ins:
- Crushed pretzels or granola
- Chopped pecans or almonds
- Caramelized cornflakes or Rice Krispies
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped apples or strawberries
- Crushed toffee bits
- Shredded coconut
- Chocolate chips
For Topping:
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle
- Extra pretzels or nuts
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pudding
- In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and milk until smooth.
- Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Step 2: Fold in the Creamy Ingredients
- Gently fold in Cool Whip until fully combined.
- Stir in mini marshmallows and any fruit (if using).
Step 3: Add the Crunchy Mix
- Just before serving, stir in crushed pretzels, granola, or nuts for the perfect crunch.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Spoon into a serving dish and drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce.
- Top with extra crunchy mix-ins for garnish.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 10-40 minutes
Variations
- Apple Crunch Salad – Use chopped apples, cinnamon, and pecans.
- Butterscotch Pretzel Delight – Swap vanilla pudding for butterscotch and add toffee bits.
- Peanut Butter Crunch – Mix in crushed peanut butter cups and peanut butter drizzle.
- Tropical Crunch – Add pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the creamy base ahead, but add crunchy mix-ins just before serving.
How do I keep the crunch from getting soggy?
Store crunchy toppings separately and mix in right before serving.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes! Whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Can I make this healthier?
Use sugar-free pudding, Greek yogurt instead of Cool Whip, and granola instead of pretzels.
What’s the best pudding flavor for this dessert?
Vanilla, butterscotch, or white chocolate pudding work best!
Can I add chocolate?
Yes! Try chocolate chips, cocoa powder, or crushed Oreos.
Is this dessert kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s fun, sweet, and packed with texture.
How do I make it nut-free?
Skip the nuts and use extra pretzels, graham crackers, or Rice Krispies.
Can I serve this as a dip?
Yes! Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or apple slices.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Use less milk in the pudding or add extra whipped topping.
Conclusion
This Crunch Dessert Salad is a sweet, creamy, and crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you serve it as a side dish, dessert, or dip, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a fun, crunchy twist on a classic dessert salad!
PrintCrunch Dessert Salad
This Crunch Dessert Salad is a sweet, creamy, and crunchy no-bake treat that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you need an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert! Made with whipped topping, pudding, crunchy mix-ins, and fruit, it’s light, fluffy, and full of texture!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Potluck
Ingredients
For the Creamy Base:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix (or butterscotch for extra flavor!)
- 1 cup cold milk (for the pudding mix)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Crunchy Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for a nutty crunch!)
- 1 cup crushed pretzels or granola (salty-sweet contrast!)
- 1 cup crushed Butterfinger, toffee bits, or graham crackers (extra crunch!)
For the Fruity Add-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) (adds a crisp bite!)
- 1 cup sliced strawberries or pineapple chunks (optional, for sweetness!)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional, for extra texture!)
For Topping:
- Extra crushed pretzels, nuts, or caramel drizzle (optional but delicious!)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Creamy Base
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pudding mix.
- Slowly add cold milk, whisking until thick and creamy.
- Gently fold in Cool Whip until well combined.
Step 2: Add the Crunch & Fruit
- Stir in chopped apples, strawberries, and coconut (if using).
- Add chopped pecans, crushed pretzels, and Butterfinger/toffee bits, folding gently to maintain texture.
Step 3: Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
- Before serving, top with extra crunchy mix-ins and a caramel drizzle if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Parfait: Layer with extra granola or cookie crumbs in glasses.
- With Dippers: Serve as a dip with graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
- Topped with Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream!
Notes
- Want it crunchier? Add extra pretzels or nuts right before serving.
- Prefer it lighter? Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
- Different flavors? Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate or caramel!