Strawberry Banana Pudding is a creamy, fruity, and comforting dessert that is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, potlucks, or warm-weather parties. This easy no-bake dessert is made with layers of vanilla wafers, fresh banana slices, juicy strawberries, and a rich pudding cream filling.
It is sweet, smooth, and full of classic flavor. The vanilla wafers soften as the pudding chills, creating a cake-like texture that pairs perfectly with the fresh fruit and creamy filling.
Ingredients
- 2 boxes vanilla wafers
- 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
- 1 container fresh strawberries, chopped or sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 1 box French vanilla pudding mix, 5 oz
- 1 package cream cheese, 8 oz, softened
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 14 oz
- 1 container frozen whipped topping, 12 oz, thawed
- Or use an equal amount of sweetened whipped cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dish
Line the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish with one bag of vanilla wafers. Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the cookies.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and French vanilla pudding mix. Beat with a handheld electric mixer until smooth and thickened.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Topping
Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Mix until light, fluffy, and fully combined.
Step 5: Combine the Fillings
Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture. Stir until everything is smooth and well blended.
Step 6: Assemble the Dessert
Pour the creamy pudding mixture over the vanilla wafers and bananas. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Add the chopped or sliced strawberries over the pudding layer.
Step 7: Add the Final Cookie Layer
Cover the top with the remaining vanilla wafers. You can arrange them neatly or lightly crush some for a more textured topping.
Step 8: Chill Before Serving
Cover the dish and refrigerate until ready to serve. For the best flavor and texture, chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this strawberry banana pudding chilled. It pairs wonderfully with:
- Extra whipped cream
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- A drizzle of strawberry sauce
- A glass of cold milk
- Hot coffee after dinner
Tips for the Best Strawberry Banana Pudding
Use ripe but firm bananas so they hold their shape in the dessert. If the bananas are too soft, they may become mushy after chilling.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. This helps create a smooth filling without lumps.
For the best texture, let the pudding chill for several hours. This allows the vanilla wafers to soften and the flavors to blend together beautifully.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served chilled and fresh, as the bananas may darken slightly over time.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Banana Pudding is an easy, creamy, and delicious no-bake dessert that everyone will love. With layers of vanilla wafers, bananas, strawberries, and rich pudding filling, it is a simple homemade treat that is perfect for any occasion.
