Strawberry Banana Pudding

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Strawberry Banana Pudding

Creamy, Layered, No-Bake Southern-Style Dessert with Fresh Strawberries and Bananas

Strawberry Banana Pudding is a rich, creamy, nostalgic dessert that combines the classic comfort of Southern-style banana pudding with sweet, juicy strawberries. This layered no-bake treat features silky vanilla pudding, fresh fruit, soft vanilla wafers, and fluffy whipped cream — all chilled together until perfectly set.

Inspired by traditional Southern banana pudding often made with Nilla Wafers, this version adds strawberries for extra freshness, color, and flavor depth. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you need an easy crowd-pleasing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No baking required

  • Perfect make-ahead dessert

  • Beautiful layered presentation

  • Sweet, creamy, and refreshing

  • Great for parties and gatherings

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

  • Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

  • Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pudding Layer

  • 1 (5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix

  • 2 cups cold whole milk

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Layer

  • 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

  • ¼ cup powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

(Or substitute 8 oz whipped topping if preferred.)

For the Fruit Layer

  • 3 ripe bananas, sliced

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

For the Layers

  • 1 (11 oz) box vanilla wafer cookies (such as Nilla Wafers)

How to Prepare Strawberry Banana Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Pudding

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cold milk and instant pudding mix for about 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.

  2. Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.

  3. Mix until smooth and creamy.

  4. Refrigerate for 5–10 minutes to set slightly.

The pudding should be thick but spreadable.

Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream

  1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form.

  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

  3. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pudding mixture for a lighter texture. Reserve the other half for topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Fruit

Slice bananas just before assembling to prevent browning.
Slice strawberries evenly for consistent layering.

Optional tip: Lightly toss banana slices in a teaspoon of lemon juice to slow browning.

Assembling the Layers

You can assemble this dessert in:

  • A 9×13-inch glass baking dish

  • A trifle bowl

  • Individual dessert cups

Layer Order:

  1. Vanilla wafers

  2. Banana slices

  3. Strawberry slices

  4. Pudding mixture

  5. Repeat layers

  6. Finish with whipped cream

Continue layering until ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of whipped cream on top.

Crush a few vanilla wafers and sprinkle over the top for garnish if desired.

Chill and Set

Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

During chilling, the cookies soften and absorb moisture from the pudding, creating that signature cake-like texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Banana Pudding

Use ripe but firm bananas. Overripe bananas become mushy.

Layer evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.

Chill overnight for best texture and flavor development.

Use full-fat dairy for the richest result.

Add a thin layer of sliced strawberries on top for a vibrant finish.

Storage Instructions

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Best enjoyed within 24–48 hours for freshest fruit texture.

Do not freeze, as fresh fruit texture will change.

Serving Ideas

Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator.

Top with extra strawberries just before serving.

Drizzle with white chocolate for a decorative finish.

Add a sprinkle of crushed cookies for crunch contrast.

Estimated Calories

Per serving (based on 12 servings):
Approximately 350–420 calories.

Calories may vary depending on whipped topping choice and portion size.

Variations

Chocolate Strawberry Banana Pudding:
Add a layer of chocolate pudding or chocolate chips.

Cheesecake Style:
Fold 8 oz softened cream cheese into the pudding mixture.

Strawberry-Only Version:
Omit bananas and double strawberries for a brighter flavor.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Banana Pudding is the perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and nostalgic comfort. The soft cookies, sweet bananas, fresh strawberries, and velvety pudding create a dessert that feels both classic and fresh at the same time.

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