Description
A delicious and creamy Strawberry Banana Pudding featuring layers of vanilla wafers, fresh bananas, chopped strawberries, and a luscious French vanilla pudding combined with cream cheese and whipped topping. This no-bake dessert is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared in advance to chill and set for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Layers
- 2 boxes Vanilla Wafers
- 6–8 bananas, sliced
- 1 container strawberries, chopped
Pudding Mixture
- 2 cups milk
- 1 (5 oz.) box French Vanilla pudding mix
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed (or equal amount sweetened whipped cream)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Line a 13×9-inch dish with one box of Vanilla Wafers, evenly spreading them to form the first layer.
- Spread Bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas uniformly over the vanilla wafers to create a fresh fruit layer.
- Make the Pudding Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of milk with the French Vanilla pudding mix and beat until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Combine Mixtures: Blend the cream cheese mixture into the pudding mixture and mix until you have a smooth, homogeneous pudding filling.
- Assemble the Pudding: Pour this combined pudding mixture evenly over the layer of bananas and vanilla wafers in the dish.
- Add Strawberries: Sprinkle the chopped strawberries evenly over the pudding layer to add texture and flavor.
- Top with Vanilla Wafers: Finish by layering the second box of Vanilla Wafers on top to add a crunchy topping.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled pudding for 2 to 3 hours to allow it to set properly. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh whipped cream for the frozen whipped topping if preferred.
- For best results, use ripe yet firm bananas to prevent browning and maintain texture.
- Prepare the pudding a few hours ahead to allow flavors to meld and layers to set nicely.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh strawberries before serving for extra freshness.
