If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, no-bake dessert that captures the cozy nostalgia of banana pudding with the added freshness of summer berries, Strawberry Banana Pudding is about to win your heart (and your taste buds). This creamy, fruity layered delight brings together fluffy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, luscious strawberries, and crisp vanilla wafers in every dreamy bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family picnic, a potluck, or just because you deserve something special, this is one recipe you’ll come back to all year long!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Pudding:
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream:
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
- 3–4 ripe bananas (sliced)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
Assembly:
How to Make Strawberry Banana Pudding
Step 1: Make the Vanilla Pudding Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix with three cups of cold milk. Give it about two minutes of good whisking, and watch as it thickens up to that silky, luscious pudding you know and love. Once the pudding sets, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. This combination gives you a base that’s incredibly rich, fragrant, and downright addictive—don’t be surprised if you sneak a spoonful (or two) before moving on!
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, pour in your heavy whipping cream and start whipping—either with a hand mixer or stand mixer—until stiff peaks form. This step is where the magic happens: folding the whipped cream into the pudding base transforms everything into a fluffy, cloud-like texture that makes Strawberry Banana Pudding truly special. Remember to fold gently for maximum volume and creaminess.
Step 3: Start Layering
You’re ready to build your masterpiece! In a 9×13-inch dish or in a dramatic trifle bowl, begin with a generous layer of vanilla wafer cookies on the bottom. They’ll soak up just enough cream to become pillowy soft, but still have a little bite. Top the cookies with a scatter of sliced bananas and strawberries, creating a mosaic of color and flavor. Then, smooth a thick layer of pudding over the top, letting it find its way into every nook and cranny. Repeat the layers—cookies, fruit, pudding—until all your ingredients are used up. Finish with pudding on top to keep everything moist and beautiful.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
For that Instagram-worthy finale, decorate the top with extra strawberries, banana slices, and a handful of crushed vanilla wafers. If you want a little extra zing, add a drizzle of strawberry jam or preserves between your fruit and pudding layers (trust me, it takes those fruity notes to the next level). Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least four hours; letting it chill overnight is even better for maximum flavor harmony!
How to Serve Strawberry Banana Pudding
Garnishes
A beautiful dessert deserves a little flourish! Right before serving, top your Strawberry Banana Pudding with a sprinkle of fresh sliced strawberries and bananas, plus a dusting of crushed vanilla wafers. Even a mint sprig can add a fresh pop of green. These simple extras not only make for a stunning presentation but also offer bursts of texture and brightness with every spoonful.
Side Dishes
This pudding is a showstopper on its own, but if you want to make it part of an impressive dessert spread, it pairs perfectly with other light treats. Serve alongside lemon bars, fruit salad, or a crisp glass of iced tea. The fresh fruit and creamy layers of the pudding balance beautifully with almost any sweet or fruity companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the trifle bowl for your Strawberry Banana Pudding. Try layering it in individual mason jars for adorable picnic-ready treats, or pile it high in cocktail glasses for an elegant after-dinner finale. Even simple cups can create grab-and-go portions—ideal for parties and potlucks. No matter how you serve it, those gorgeous layers will steal the spotlight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any Strawberry Banana Pudding left after dessert, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. It’ll keep beautifully for up to three days. The vanilla wafers will continue to soften, soaking up more flavor, which many pudding fans absolutely love!
Freezing
While freezing is generally not recommended (the texture of the bananas and pudding can become less appealing after thawing), you can freeze portions in airtight containers if needed. Just know the consistency will be softer and a bit watery upon defrosting, so it’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
This is a chilled, no-bake dessert, so reheating isn’t necessary—just grab a spoon and dig right in! If you’d like to refresh leftovers, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a few new fruit slices to brighten things up before serving.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Absolutely! If you prefer making pudding from scratch, go for it—just make sure it’s thick and cool before assembling your Strawberry Banana Pudding layers for the best results.
What’s the best way to keep bananas from browning?
Lightly tossing banana slices in a little lemon juice before layering helps keep them fresh and bright, especially if making the pudding ahead of time.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Of course! Substitute dairy-free pudding mix, plant-based milk, coconut whipped cream, and vegan cookies to create a version of Strawberry Banana Pudding that’s just as indulgent and delicious.
How soon should I assemble before serving?
Ideally, at least 4 hours ahead, or even overnight. This resting time lets the flavors meld and allows the wafers to soften into perfect, cake-like layers.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Frozen strawberries (thawed and well-drained) work in a pinch, but fresh fruit is best for optimal texture and vibrant flavor. Frozen bananas tend to become mushy, so stick with fresh if you can.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy as it is dazzling, Strawberry Banana Pudding checks every box. It’s creamy, fruity, comforting, and bursting with color and flavor in every bite. Whether you serve it for a summer picnic or a cozy Sunday dinner, don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds. Give it a try and let this layered classic become a new favorite in your kitchen!
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Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of fresh strawberries, ripe bananas, and creamy pudding with this easy-to-make Strawberry Banana Pudding recipe.
Ingredients
Pudding:
- 1 (5.1 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream:
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 box vanilla wafer cookies
- 3–4 ripe bananas (sliced)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
Assembly:
Instructions
- Prepare the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the pudding mixture until smooth and fluffy.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, strawberries, and pudding mixture, repeating until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pudding. Top with additional fruit and crushed wafers.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving, or overnight for best flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of strawberry jam or preserves.
- Use stabilized whipped cream or whipped topping for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
