Print

Easy Patriotic Pudding Parfaits in Mason Jars

patriotic pudding parfaits - featured image

A quick, colorful, and fuss-free dessert perfect for 4th of July and other patriotic celebrations, featuring layers of vanilla pudding, fresh berries, crushed cookies, and whipped cream served in Mason jars.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 oz / 96 g)
  • 2 cups cold whole milk (480 ml)
  • 1 cup whipped cream (240 ml), homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries (150 g), hulled and sliced
  • 1 tsp honey (optional, 5 ml)
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries (150 g)
  • 1 cup vanilla wafer cookies or graham crackers (100 g), crushed
  • Optional garnishes: mini American flags or festive toothpicks, extra whipped cream, fresh mint leaves

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Let it sit for 5 minutes to set completely.
  2. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped cream after the pudding sets for a lighter texture.
  3. Rinse and dry the strawberries and blueberries. Hull and slice the strawberries thinly. Toss strawberries with honey if desired. Set both berries aside.
  4. Place vanilla wafers or graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until fine crumbs with some small chunks remain.
  5. Start with 2 tablespoons of crushed cookies at the bottom of each Mason jar. Add 1/4 cup of pudding, then a layer of sliced strawberries (about 2 tablespoons).
  6. Repeat the pudding layer (1/4 cup), then add a layer of blueberries (2 tablespoons).
  7. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of remaining crushed cookies on top.
  8. Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and layers firm up.
  9. Add festive toothpicks or mini flags just before serving.

Notes

Chill pudding before layering to keep layers distinct. Crush cookies to a mix of fine crumbs and small chunks for texture. Use fresh berries for best texture; if using frozen, drain excess liquid. Assemble parfaits up to 4 hours ahead but add whipped cream topping just before serving to keep it fresh. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator up to 2 days; cookies may soften over time.

Nutrition

Keywords: patriotic pudding parfaits, 4th of July dessert, Mason jar dessert, easy pudding parfait, summer dessert, layered pudding dessert