Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe

Silky Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe: A Sweet Treat for All

Creamy and dreamy strawberry banana pudding captures the essence of summer sweetness in every spoonful.

Memories of childhood desserts dance through this simple yet luxurious treat.

Fresh fruit adds natural brightness to the classic comfort recipe.

Soft bananas and ripe strawberries create a delightful harmony of flavors.

Layers of smooth pudding and tender fruit promise a mouthwatering experience.

Rich vanilla undertones complement the fruity notes perfectly.

FAQs

  • Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries and bananas?

Yes, you can substitute with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, or use sliced peaches for a different flavor profile.

  • Is this dessert suitable for make-ahead occasions?

Absolutely! You can prepare this pudding a day in advance and keep it refrigerated, which actually helps the flavors meld together better.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make this recipe?

No special equipment is required. A handheld electric mixer and mixing bowls are all you need to create this delicious dessert.

  • How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown?

Toss the sliced bananas in a little lemon juice before layering them in the dish. This will help prevent quick browning and keep them looking fresh.

Strawberry Banana Pudding – Sweet, Creamy, and Nostalgic

  • Craving Comfort: This strawberry banana pudding offers pure comfort food vibes with its creamy layers and classic flavor combination that reminds you of childhood desserts.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and celebrations where you want a dessert that everyone from kids to grandparents will absolutely love and devour.
  • Simple Layering Magic: No complicated baking required – just assemble layers of cookies, fruits, and creamy mixtures, making it an approachable dessert for cooks of all skill levels.
  • Delightful Make-Ahead Option: Prepare this dessert in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator, which means less stress and more enjoyment when it's time to serve a delicious treat.

Ingredients for Classic Strawberry Banana Pudding

For the Base:
  • Vanilla Wafers: Classic crisp cookies that provide a delightful crunch and sweet foundation for the dessert.
  • Bananas: Fresh sliced fruit that adds natural sweetness and creamy texture to the pudding layers.
For the Pudding Mixture:
  • Milk: Smooth liquid that helps create the pudding's creamy consistency.
  • Pudding Mix: Instant mix that thickens and flavors the base of the dessert.
For the Cream Mixture:
  • Cream Cheese: Soft cheese that adds rich, tangy flavor and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweet, thick milk that provides additional richness and sweetness to the cream layer.
  • Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy topping that adds volume and a soft, airy texture to the cream mixture.
For the Topping:
  • Strawberries: Fresh chopped fruit that brings bright color and sweet-tart flavor to the dessert.

How to Make This Creamy Delight

Step 1: Create Delicious Foundation

Grab a rectangular baking dish and create a cozy base by carefully arranging vanilla wafers to cover the entire bottom. Slice ripe bananas into delicate rounds and spread them evenly over the wafer layer, creating a sweet and creamy landscape.

Step 2: Whip Up Smooth Pudding

In a mixing bowl, pour milk and sprinkle pudding mix. Grab an electric mixer and blend the ingredients until they transform into a silky, smooth mixture with no lumps.

The pudding should look creamy and inviting.

Step 3: Craft Dreamy Cream Cheese Blend

Take another bowl and add softened cream cheese.

Pour in sweetened condensed milk and mix thoroughly until the combination becomes incredibly smooth and velvety. Each stir should create a luxurious texture that promises delightful richness.

Step 4: Fold Fluffy Clouds

Gently introduce thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients together, creating a light and airy blend that looks like soft clouds dancing together.

Step 5: Marry Pudding Mixtures

Combine the pudding mixture with the cream cheese blend. Stir carefully until the two become one harmonious, creamy delight with no separation.

Step 6: Build Delectable Layers

Pour the combined pudding mixture over the wafer and banana foundation. Sprinkle chopped strawberries across the top, then crown the dessert with remaining vanilla wafers for a stunning finish.

Step 7: Chill and Delight

Place the dessert in the refrigerator and let it cool and set. When ready to serve, scoop out a portion and enjoy the symphony of flavors and textures.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pudding Texture

  • Select ripe, sweet bananas and strawberries for maximum flavor and natural sweetness in the pudding.
  • Soften cream cheese completely at room temperature to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing with condensed milk.
  • Gently fold whipped topping to maintain its light, airy texture and prevent deflating the mixture.
  • Chill the dessert for at least 2-3 hours to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set properly.
  • Layer ingredients carefully to create beautiful, distinct strata that look as delicious as they taste.

Variations to Customize Your Strawberry Banana Pudding

  • Tropical Paradise Pudding: Replace strawberries with diced mangoes and add toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Lover's Dream: Swap vanilla wafers with chocolate cookies and mix cocoa powder into the pudding for a rich chocolate version.
  • Gluten-Free Delight: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or almond flour cookies as a base, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the dessert.
  • Vegan Berry Pudding: Substitute dairy ingredients with coconut milk pudding mix, cashew cream cheese, and coconut whipped topping for a plant-based alternative.

What to Serve with Strawberry Banana Pudding

  • Pair Sweet Strawberry Banana Pudding with Complementary Flavors
  • Refreshing Beverage Boost: Choose a crisp white wine like Moscato or Riesling that matches the dessert's sweet profile and enhances the fruity notes.
  • Creamy Coffee Companion: Serve a smooth vanilla latte or light cappuccino that balances the pudding's richness and provides a warm contrast to the chilled dessert.
  • Flavor-Enhancing Garnish: Top with fresh mint leaves or toasted almond slivers to add a subtle crunch and aromatic dimension to each delightful bite.
  • Sparkling Pairing Option: Select a chilled sparkling rosé or prosecco that complements the strawberry and banana sweetness while adding a festive touch to the dessert experience.

Storing Strawberry Banana Pudding Simply

Store covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the dessert sealed tightly to prevent absorption of other food odors.

Wrap the pudding securely in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Gently warm individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds at low power. Avoid overheating to prevent separation of the creamy layers.

Remove from refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the texture and enhance flavor. Use a clean spoon to maintain dessert quality.

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Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe

Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe


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4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy strawberry banana pudding blends Southern comfort with fruity freshness in one irresistible dessert. Sweet layers of ripe bananas, velvety pudding, and juicy strawberries promise pure indulgence you won’t want to miss.


Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Ingredients:

  • 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
  • 1 container strawberries, chopped

Dairy Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 (8 ounces) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (14 ounces) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (12 ounces) container frozen whipped topping (thawed) or an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream

Dry and Packaged Ingredients:

  • 2 boxes vanilla wafers
  • 1 (5 ounces) box French vanilla pudding

Instructions

  1. Establish the foundation by arranging vanilla wafers across the base of a serving dish, creating a uniform layer that will serve as the dessert’s crisp bottom.
  2. Transform milk and pudding mix into a silky, smooth consistency using an electric mixer, whisking until no lumps remain and the texture becomes uniform.
  3. Blend softened cream cheese with sweetened condensed milk, working the ingredients until they merge into a luxurious, velvety mixture without any visible cream cheese chunks.
  4. Incorporate thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese blend, folding gently to maintain the airy volume and prevent deflation.
  5. Marry the pudding and cream cheese mixtures, stirring methodically to create a harmonious, creamy filling that will embrace the dessert’s layers.
  6. Cascade the combined mixture over the wafer and banana base, ensuring even distribution. Embellish the surface with vibrant strawberry pieces and crown with a final layer of crisp vanilla wafers.
  7. Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the dessert to set into a cool, refreshing treat ready to be savored.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing and easier blending without lumps.
  • Choose ripe but firm bananas to prevent browning and maintain texture in the layered dessert.
  • Crush some vanilla wafers and sprinkle on top for an extra crunchy texture and decorative finish.
  • Swap whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher, less processed flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 257
  • Sugar: 33 g
  • Sodium: 190 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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