Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors, this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of crisp Vanilla Wafers, ripe bananas, and juicy strawberries come together with a luscious vanilla pudding and cream cheese blend, resulting in a dreamy, crowd-pleasing treat that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. It’s incredibly simple to make but delivers an impressive presentation and flavor combination that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe plays a vital role in creating that perfect harmony of texture and flavor. From the crunchy vanilla wafers that form the foundation to the fresh fruit adding brightness and natural sweetness, you’ll want to have these essentials ready before diving in.

• Vanilla Wafers: They provide a sweet, crunchy contrast to the creamy layers and soak up pudding flavors beautifully.
• Bananas: Sliced fresh, bananas add natural sweetness and a soft, smooth texture that complements the pudding.
• Strawberries: Chopped fresh strawberries contribute a juicy burst of vibrant color and slight tartness.
• Milk: Needed to whisk up the instant French Vanilla pudding to creamy perfection.
• French Vanilla Pudding Mix: This brings that classic pudding flavor and thick texture essential for the filling.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds richness and a subtle tang, elevating the creaminess.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient adds a velvety sweetness that perfectly balances the fruit and cream cheese.
• Frozen Whipped Topping: Thawed whipped topping lightens the pudding mixture, making it fluffy and smooth.

How to Make Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by lining a 13×9-inch dish with one box of Vanilla Wafers, placing them snugly to create the foundation of your pudding. This layer adds that essential crunch and provides a sturdy base to hold all the luscious ingredients that come next.

Step 2: Add the Bananas

Spread sliced bananas evenly over the Vanilla Wafers layer. The fresh bananas offer natural sweetness and a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the crisp cookies beneath.

Step 3: Make the Pudding Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine two cups of milk with the French Vanilla pudding mix. Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and thickened, which usually takes a few minutes. This pudding forms the creamy layer that ties all the flavors together.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

Using softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk, beat them together until the mixture is thoroughly creamy and free of lumps. This combination adds richness and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the fruit and pudding.

Step 5: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. This step lightens the filling, giving it a fluffy, airy texture that makes every bite feel indulgent without being heavy.

Step 6: Combine the Mixtures

Now, mix the fluffy cream cheese and whipped topping blend into the thickened pudding until fully combined and silky smooth. This luscious mixture is what truly elevates the classic pudding into something extra special.

Step 7: Assemble the Pudding

Pour the creamy pudding mixture over the bananas and Vanilla Wafers in the dish, spreading it evenly so all the fruit is covered with that dreamy vanilla filling.

Step 8: Top with Strawberries

Sprinkle the chopped strawberries on top of the pudding layer. These bright morsels add bursts of juicy flavor and a gorgeous splash of red that will make your dessert pop visually.

Step 9: Add the Top Layer

Finish by placing the second box of Vanilla Wafers as the top layer. This seals in the creamy goodness and adds another satisfying crunch with every spoonful.

Step 10: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the pudding for 2–3 hours to allow it to set properly. Serving it chilled enhances the flavors and texture, turning this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe into a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

How to Serve Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe even more inviting, fresh strawberry slices and banana coins on top work beautifully as garnishes. A sprinkle of crushed Vanilla Wafers or a few mint leaves can add a lovely decorative touch that also enhances the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

This pudding is quite the star on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something else, light options like a crisp green salad or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream pair exceptionally well, balancing sweetness with freshness or extra creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe in individual glass jars or parfait glasses layered beautifully so the vibrant colors are visible. You can also use mini mason jars to make portable, single-serving treats perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, although it is best enjoyed sooner to preserve the crispness of the Vanilla Wafers.

Freezing

Freezing this pudding isn’t recommended because the texture of fresh bananas and whipped topping can become watery and mushy after thawing. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh from the fridge.

Reheating

This dessert is best served chilled, so reheating is not typically needed. If you prefer a softer texture, let the pudding sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?

Absolutely! Fresh whipped cream works wonderfully and gives an even fresher, lighter texture. Just be sure it’s sweetened to match the balance of flavors in the pudding.

Is there a way to make this pudding recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, vegan cream cheese, and coconut whipped topping. Be sure to use a pudding mix that doesn’t contain dairy as well.

Can I prepare this Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe a day in advance?

Yes, making it a day ahead allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to give it enough chilling time and add any fresh fruit garnishes right before serving to keep them vibrant.

What if I don’t have French Vanilla pudding mix?

You can use regular vanilla pudding mix or even homemade pudding if you prefer, though the French Vanilla adds a subtle depth of flavor that pairs especially well with the fruit and cream cheese.

How do I keep the Vanilla Wafers from getting soggy?

Layering the pudding mixture evenly and chilling the dessert properly helps maintain some crunch. Serving it within a few hours of making is best to enjoy that perfect crispy-soft contrast.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe is such a comforting and vibrant dessert that’s guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re making it for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat for yourself, I promise it’s a dessert that will win hearts with its layers of flavor and texture. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dessert!

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