Twinkie Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Twinkie Cake is a fun, no-bake dessert that transforms the nostalgic snack cake into a layered treat filled with creamy pudding, bananas, and whipped topping. It’s light, fluffy, and perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or whenever you need a quick and delicious dessert that tastes like childhood in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Twinkiesinstant vanilla pudding mixcold milkbananascrushed pineapple (drained)whipped topping (like Cool Whip)maraschino cherries (optional)chopped nuts (optional)

directions

Slice each Twinkie in half lengthwise and place them cream-side up in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.

Spread the pudding evenly over the Twinkies.

Add a layer of sliced bananas over the pudding.

Evenly spread the drained crushed pineapple over the bananas.

Top with whipped topping, spreading it gently to cover all layers.

Garnish with maraschino cherries and chopped nuts if desired.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 4 hoursTotal time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use banana or cheesecake pudding for a flavor twist.

Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce before serving.

Swap bananas for strawberries or mixed berries for a different fruit profile.

Use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping for a richer taste.

storage/reheating

Store Twinkie Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Best enjoyed chilled. Do not freeze, as the texture of the Twinkies and bananas may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of snack cake?

Yes, similar cream-filled snack cakes like Little Debbie Cloud Cakes can be used.

Can I make Twinkie Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely—preparing it the night before allows the flavors to develop beautifully.

What if I don’t like pineapple?

You can omit it or replace it with an extra layer of fruit or pudding.

Is Twinkie Cake gluten-free?

Traditional Twinkies are not gluten-free, but you can use a gluten-free alternative if needed.

Can I serve it immediately?

It’s best to chill for a few hours, but it can be served immediately if you’re in a hurry—it just won’t be as set.

Conclusion

Twinkie Cake is a quick and crowd-pleasing dessert that layers familiar flavors in a new and exciting way. With no baking required and tons of room for creativity, it’s a perfect last-minute sweet for any gathering. Whip it up once, and it’s sure to be a repeat request!

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